Having a dog as a member of your family is an incredible experience however there are many considerations to think about before embarking on this adventure.
Next we share with you some things to consider before getting a new dog:
1.- First thing to consider is the basic care and training your new dog will need and that you will have to provide. What is it needed to make your home a safe and comfortable place for your pup? What kind of toys to have? What supplies do you need? How much time to set aside for training and how often? All this information is very important to make the transition as smooth as possible and to create a healthy bond from the get go.
2.- It is also important to establish your family’s roles, make sure that every family member has a clear role in the care-taking of your new dog (just like when your kids “promised” they would pick up and clean after him). Everybody should be on the same page and do their part.
3.- Budgeting and planning ahead the cost for all the care your new pet will require is another vital fact to be considered. Veterinarian visits, training classes, grooming and even lodging while you are away all of this adds up, visit your local veterinarian or a shelter to get a sense of the financial implications of getting a dog.
4.- Were you aware that one of the main reasons dogs end up in shelters is because of their owners’ living scenarios? Because of this your lifestyle and environment should be a deciding factor on getting a dog. There should be enough space for your dog to lead an active life, also having the permission of everyone you live with before bringing a dog into the living space. Living with roommates, landlords, moving constantly or not having enough space can make it more difficult than you expected.
5.- Deciding the right kind of dog for you is important as well. When thinking about adopting a dog a lot of people immediately want the same breed of dog they had as when they were kids, ignoring that their circumstances might be very different than back in the day. That is why more than breed you might want to consider the size of the dog, the activity level and personality that will fit your lifestyle best.
6.- Adding a dog as a member of your family is a big decision, you can start by checking local shelters or local breeders although there are many other places where you can find the right dog for you. You can also check Petfinder or adopt-a-pet.com
*Thanks to our friends over at Purina* for posting the original article