As a dog trainer, one of the most common questions I get asked is, “How do I know if I’m ready to get a dog?” I usually respond by listing the responsibilities that come with having a dog. However, after answering this question for multiple clients, I decided to write it all down so you can have it as a reference anytime.
There are several things to consider before getting a dog. One of the main reasons we see so many dogs in shelters—some of which are tragically euthanized—is that people don’t take enough time to educate themselves before getting one. Owning a dog can be fun and exciting, but it’s also a 10-15 year commitment, and that reality can lead to problems most people aren’t prepared to handle. Here are some important considerations before buying or adopting a dog:
How much room do you have?
Many behavioral issues stem from dogs not having enough space to function. This does NOT mean they need free rein to roam your entire house (that’s a topic for another blog post). What I mean by space is:
- How big is your yard for your dog to run and go potty?
- Is your living room spacious enough to sit down and play with them?
- Can you fit a “stay bed” in a corner where your dog can relax out of the way?
These are all critical questions to ask yourself before bringing a dog home.
Dogs are not cheap.
Believe it or not, many people get dogs they simply can’t afford. While it’s impossible to predict the exact costs of owning a dog—since every dog is different—you should still make an educated estimate. Some costs to consider include:
- Vet bills.
- High-quality dog food (what you feed your dog really matters).
- Toys, training tools, kennels, and stay beds.
- Regular grooming and maintenance.
- Occasional splurges to spoil them!
Make sure you have the financial means to support a dog before making the commitment.
How much time do you have to spend with them?
Dogs are not like cats; you can’t leave them home alone for hours on end without expecting them to become bored or anxious. If you work 10-hour days, six days a week, owning a dog might not be the best fit for your lifestyle. Leaving a dog alone for long periods—especially a young one—can lead to behavioral issues.
- Puppies, in particular, should never be left unattended without being in a kennel. Kennels exist for a reason—use them!
- If you work a regular 9-to-5 job, ensure you have the time and energy to exercise your dog daily.
- Consider the breed. Different breeds have different energy levels and were bred for specific jobs. Tailor your dog’s exercise and playtime to meet their natural needs.
Are you willing to train your dog—or pay for training?
I absolutely love what I do—the dogs I meet and the people I help—but I can’t stress this enough: An untrained dog with an owner who is unwilling to learn or pay for training is a recipe for disaster. Behavioral problems like excessive barking, chewing, leash pulling, jumping, and general disobedience are common when dogs lack proper training.
Training is essential for your dog’s safety and your peace of mind. If you’re not interested in training, that’s okay! But consider adopting an older dog with established manners—or, if you prefer less responsibility, maybe a cat is a better option for you.
What you feed your dog matters.
I mentioned earlier that diet is important. The quality of food you provide can directly affect your dog’s health and behavior. If you’re curious about my recommendations, feel free to contact us—we’d love to help you make the best choice for your furry friend!
Vitality K9 LLC 