If you are thinking about getting a dog, then read on. We have some advice on what you need to consider before you take on the role of dog parent and bring a dog into your life or your family’s life. A dog is a pet that can bring many hours of joy, love and fulfillment to you and your children but you do need to think carefully before you take on the many responsibilities of being a dog owner and becoming a dog person.
If you are planning on getting a dog, it’s important that you know what to expect. To help you ensure that getting a dog is the best thing for your family, I thought I would create this simple guide, below:
Dogs can be expensive
All pets are expensive, well fish excluded, but dogs are even more expensive to take care of. Because they are generally larger than cats, they eat more, cost more to insure and have larger vet bills.
If you are struggling to get by as it is, adding a pet to your family is a recipe for disaster. When you get a pet, it needs to be for life, not just until you can no longer afford it. If you are going to get a dog, you need to work out how much it will cost to keep, and whether you can afford it.
Dogs need equipment
As well as the cost of caring for the dog, there is also the cost of everything that they will need. Yes, this will be a one-off cost, but it’s still important to take into account. If you decide to adopt a dog, your new pet will need lots of bits and bobs.
A new dog will need food and water bowls, a collar, lead, a cage, and, of course, a dog bed as well as some toys. It’s a good idea to speak to your vet or someone who is an experienced dog owner, and get an idea of what they really need, rather than just spending money on things you might not use. Then make a list and plan to budget for those things.
As well as all these things, you new pup will also need lots of toys to keep him or her entertained – pet toys can be expensive.
Dogs are a big commitment
While taking on any pet is a big commitment, taking on a dog requires a different level of commitment. Cats pretty much look after themselves, they are happy to spend time on their own and can take themselves out each day.
Whereas dogs need to be let out to go to the toilet throughout the day and need to be taken on two long walks each day. Dogs can’t be left all day long, so unless you can pop home, you will need to hire a dog walker.
Dogs can live between 10 and 20 years, so if you are going to get a dog, you need to be sure about the decision. If you are getting the pet for your children, you need to realize that even after they have left home, you will still have to take care of the dog.
What kind of dog will suit you or your family
Not all dogs are the same and there are many different breeds out there and what might work for one person or family won’t necessarily be the right fit for your and yours. If you have children you need to consider a family friendly breed that will cope with family life. You don’t want to get a dog that won’t work with a family, or be able to cope with small children.
Dogs can make great companions, but they are also a big commitment and can be expensive to care for. If you are considering getting a dog it’s crucial that you take the time to think things through, before rushing into a decision that you may regret. So if you are thinking about getting a dog, but realise you are not quite ready, that isn’t a bad thing. Wait until you are able to fully commit and you won’t regret it.
*this is a collaborative post*