Things to consider when getting a dog

So you’ve decided that you want a furry friend in your life, you want to enter the world of dog owners but you want to make sure you are making the right decision.

The fact that you are doing your research tells me that you are already on the right track. Below is a list of some of the things you should consider.

Type of Breed – “I think Pomeranians are the cutest”

It is important to do some research on different breeds as your decision shouldn’t just be made on which one you think is the cutest, there are other factors to consider such as their temperaments, whether that breed is good with children (that’s if you have children of course!) and whether they are likely to get on with any other pets you may already have in the house, it’s about the dog fitting in with your lifestyle.

How much time do you have?

Dogs require a lot of time, especially at a young age as it’s crucial for training them. They require a minimum of three walks a day and the bigger the dog the more exercise they require. A dog that is kept on their own often or that is not walked much can develop behavioural problems. So if you work long hours or travel regularly a dog may not be for you.

Having a dog can be expensive

There are a number of extra costs that come with having a dog, these include vet bills, grooming and other necessities such as dog food. Arranging for your dog to be put into kennels when you are going on holiday can also be very expensive, in some cases it can be just as expensive as your holiday!

Whilst getting a dog is a big commitment they can change your life for the better. Having a dog can help with loneliness, they are great companions after all they are man’s best friend and encourage you to socialise with other dog owners. It can change your overall health as you will be getting more active by taking your dog on regular walks and they really do become a part of the family in the end.