How to Buy a Dog: What You Need to Know Before You Buy a Dog

After years of asking and begging, you have finally agreed to allow your children to have a pet that will complete the family unit. Before you rush out and buy the first dog that melts your heart with it's (ahem) puppy dog eyes, there are a few things to know. Make sure that you do your research and agree on a size and breed before you look at the first puppy (if that is what you choose to get), and remind your children that you have the final say on what is and is not acceptable and that any arguments will equal no dog for that trip. It might actually be a better idea to look at several dogs and then have a family meeting to discuss everybody's choice before the final decision is made. Be sure that everybody is on the same page before heading out to avoid tantrums.

Most experts agree that a child should be at least five years old before a new pet is introduced into their lives, before that they may not be able to understand the concept of playing nicely, or may be afraid of the dog for whatever reason. Remember, a new pet and fear never mix well. Observe your children with other people's pets, or take them to a pet shop or shelter for a practice run. Do they pet the dogs calmly and slowly, or do they grab and lunge? Remind your child of how a dog likes to be approached, and why they need to follow this rule: this is a set in stone rule, no exceptions!

After you are confident that your child is actually ready for the next step, consider a few things about your families' personality, lifestyle and availability. Are you a busy, on the go family with many, many outside interests, or are you a stay at home, nesting type family? If both adults work, and the children are gone at school, how will you handle all of that alone time with your new, furry bundle of joy? Will you crate train your puppy, or will you consider a doggy day care? Consider how needy a breed can be before you look at them, what good is a loving, little lap dog if there is never a lap for him to snuggle on? If you have found yourself packing on the pounds, get a sturdy, mid size breed that will not only be your best friend no matter what, but will joyfully exercise with you as well. Knowing that you have to walk the dog will motivate you- no one wants to do the bloated waddle around the block with their playful pooch dragging them along.

If this is a second pet, to serve as company for an established dog, consider an older dog, ideally from a shelter. Not only will you have the satisfaction of knowing that you have saved a life, an older dog will generally have less of the biting, hyper issues of a new puppy, making it easier for the established dog and the family. Introduce the two slowly, and let them define the parameters of their relationship. Most shelters encourage you pre-adoption meetings, so consider asking if you can bring your pet in to meet the prospective new family member and remember, not all dogs will fall into instant (dare I say it?) puppy love.