Are you ready for a dog?
By: rehomek9Added on: 6/11/08
Am I ready for a Dog?
by Karen Peak
West Wind Dog Training, USA
Am I ready for a dog? I need to take the time and consider the following:
Want
Why do I want a dog? Do I want a companion to share my life with or do I want a status symbol to show off to my friends and impress them? Do I want a dog I can hunt with or do sports with? Or do I want a lawn ornament so I can be just like everyone else? Do I need something to make me look good? Or do I want a devoted companion and want to put the effort into making this relationship happen?
Time Commitment
Can I devote the time to properly raising and training a puppy? Can I commit to the next 10 – 15 or more years to this animal? Will I take the time every day to properly exercise the dog, train and socialize or find someone to help me out of needed during the day if I am not home? If I cannot devote almost as much time to raising a human child, I am not ready for a puppy. I will also be willing to take the time to wait for the right dog to show up. If I am impatient, I am not ready.
Cost
Can I afford not only the cost of a puppy from a reputable source but can I afford all the things a pup needs from a crate to training classes, food, toys, vaccines? Will I pay for a dog walker or day care if I work fulltime? Can I afford at least $600 per year in general upkeep? Can I afford medical emergencies or the care for chronic health problems? Do I realize the there is no such thing as a cheap dog? Can I remember that one goes to a shelter to save a life, NOT to get a cheaper pet? Will I accept all the costs financial and emotional that go along with dog ownership?
Lifestyle
Am I active or sedentary? Will a breed that can go jogging and hiking with me or a breed that is a couch potato best suit me? Just because I like the looks of a dog does not mean it is the right match for my lifestyle. Am I willing to adapt my lifestyle to fit the dog even if it means not going out after work or partyi...
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