Dogs are man’s best friend. They’re very loving, loyal, helpful, playful, and just plain fun to be around. So why then are there so many pups left at shelters? Why are there so many pooches left on the roadside or abandoned buildings? Well, maybe it’s because their owners weren’t actually ready to have a dog in their lives.
If you’re planning on getting yourself a dog, don’t be one of those ill-prepared owners. Make sure that you’re truly ready to welcome a pup into your life before you get one. Here are three questions you can ask yourself to help you determine if you’re truly prepared to have a dog.
Do you have money to take care of a dog?
Like people, dogs need a lot of things to live, so be ready to shell out some money for your four-legged friend. For one, you’ll need to get your pooch essential items such as food supplies, food and water bowls, and a bed. Toys and treats will probably be included in your grocery list as well.
There are several services you’ll also be getting for your dog. For veterinary services, it’s a good idea to have pet insurance for your pooch to cover vaccinations, treatments, and other veterinary care expenses. If you can’t housebreak your pup yourself, you’ll likewise want to consider getting the services of a professional puppy trainer to help you. Also, you’ll be paying for grooming services from time to time.
Do you have space at home for your pup?
Whether it be a toy breed or a large breed, your pooch will occupy some space, so be ready to share (if not give up!) some of your living space at home. Ideally, your dog should have some space, however small, that it can call its own. This is where it will rest, sleep, play, or even brood after being caught doing something bad. But even with its own personal space, your dog will still probably be all over your house. So you’ll have to either get used to your pooch taking over your home or set up barriers such as gates to prevent your dog from accessing certain areas in the house.
Do you have time to give to your pooch?
Pups need a great deal of attention, so be ready to spend a significant amount of your time on your pooch. For starters, caring for a dog requires time and effort. You’ll be regularly cleaning up after your pet, giving it a bath, taking it for a walk, and bringing it to the vet clinic. Of course, you have to make time for playing and cuddling up with your four-legged friend as well. And remember that you’ll be doing all these things and then some for maybe 10 or even up to 18 years. Unlike kids, your pup will be dependent on you its entire life.
Having a dog is one of the most delightful and rewarding experiences in life. But before you go get yourself one, please be sure that you have enough money, space, and time, among other things, for a pup in your life because man’s best friend deserves nothing less.