Things to Consider Before Getting a Puppy

Having a pet can be one of the most rewarding choices you'll ever make. My dog, an adorable little Rat Terrier named Lola, is like a child to me. She's truly changed my life and I look forward to coming home every single day just to get her loving kisses. However, depending on your situation, having a pet may not be that great of an idea. Pet ownership is not for everyone, and there are a list of things you should consider before you invest your time and money into getting a puppy.

Are you sure you want a dog?

If you're sure you want a pet, also ask yourself whether or not it's a dog you actually want. Dogs are very playful creatures and require a lot of attention, and if you're not willing to invest your time then you may want to look into purchasing or adopting another type of animal.

Also, what do you want to accomplish by getting a dog? Are you just bored and need something to do? I highly recommend only getting a dog because you want to spread your love and have a new member of your family.

The costs involved with getting a puppy.

Before you make a trip to the local dog shelter or breeder take careful consideration to whether or not you can afford the costs involved with a dog. Don't get a dog without planning for the costs for such a responsibility. Once you get the puppy you'll need a variety of licenses, examinations, shots, and boosters to make your puppy healthy. Also, if you choose you'll need to spend the money to have your dog spayed or neutered. Preventative and consistent care is less expensive and will help prolong your pet's life expectancy.

That's just the medical aspects. Once you adopt or buy a puppy then you've got to go out and buy a leash, food bowl, collar, licenses, carriers, beds, dog food, toys, and other items that are necessary. Be prepared to also replace furniture and toys and the dog may damage from biting or chewing. With that said, are you still ready to get a puppy?

Do you have the time?

As I mentioned earlier, dogs love attention and they require a lot of time, especially the smaller breeds. If your job requires long hours and you travel often, then getting a puppy may not be a wise idea. Dogs are very independent, social creatures and they don't want to be left in a cage or yard alone. Every single day you must commit a portion of your time to playing with them and showing affection. Put yourself in the dog's position. Would you want to be stuck in a cage all day and have an owner that ignores you? Remember, you chose them. They didn't have a choice, so make sure you're a great parent. Food and water aren't enough. They need to be a part of your family.

Your time should also include training the puppy. Training is critical in a puppy's upbringing, and by putting in the time and effort now you can prevent misbehavior in the future. If you don't have the time, consider hiring a trainer to come to your house and put the work in.

What is your housing situation like?

In other words, do you have the space that is necessary for a dog? In a small apartment, they don't have the freedom to run around the lawn and get the necessary exercise they need. For instance, most smaller breeds like the terriers have much built up energy and they need to stretch their legs for an extended amount of time. In an apartment, barking could bother the neighbors and cause trouble. Take into consideration that you'll have to take them out on a leash to use the bathroom and this includes all types of weather. If you don't have a big yard, then consider taking your dog on a short walk so they can stretch their legs and explore the outside.

Consider the future.

You'll need to choose a veterinarian so that you'll have a place to take your dog in the future. Even if your dog is healthy, you'll need to make yearly appointments to check up on their healthy. As for the future, you'll also need to think about what it will be like you and your partner have a child one day. Often times, when a couple has a dog and a child comes along, they ignore the dog and it ends up in the shelter. Dogs can actually be a great way to teach children about responsibility and the importance of taking care of something. If you're planning on having a large family in the near future and you won't have time to play and take care of an animal then don't get one.

Those are just a few things to take into consideration before you buy or adopt a pet. Animal shelters are great places to start in the searching process because you'll be saving a life. Owning a dog should be a privilege, not a burden, and they should be treated like they're a child of your own. Good luck and I hope you make the right choice!