A dog can be a companion, a best friend, and an excuse to get out and about. So it should come as a surprise that more people than ever are considering adopting a dog. However, adopting a dog shouldn’t be a rush decision and there are important questions to consider. For example, will a dog fit in with your lifestyle and what type of dog do you want? Before you adopt a dog, here are the top five things to consider:
Can You Afford a Dog?
Adopting a dog doesn’t come with a one-off cost and then you have a friend for life. In fact, adopting a dog is a lot more expensive than many people realize. As well as budgeting for food, toys, bedding and accessories you should also be aware that vet bills and medication can all add up, if the dog should need it.
Can Your Home Adequately Accommodate a Dog?
Sadly, not every home is right for a dog and placing a dog in an inadequate home isn’t fair on them or you. Before adopting a dog, consider whether your home is suitable. To accommodate a dog, a home should be safe and secure from any avoidable dangers with precautions in place to prevent the dog escaping. It’s important to remember that not all dogs need a lot of space and a large garden. If you live somewhere small or you already have pets, it may simply be a case of getting a smaller dog.
Do You Have Time For a Dog?
Getting a dog isn’t a case of feeding them twice a day and taking them for a walk every so often. As dogs are companion animals, they need your time and attention. If you’re at work all day and are busy at the weekend, the chances are you don’t have time for a dog. Before adopting a dog consider whether the dog would be left alone for long periods of time.
What Type of Dog Will Suit You Best?
There are a number of different dog breeds out there, even mixed breeds and those with an unknown breed. Before adopting a dog, it’s important to ask yourself, “what dog is best for my lifestyle?” This doesn’t just mean thinking about the type of dog you want or the breed of dog that you think is the cutest; knowing what type of dog will suit you best is based upon a lot more.
Dogs range in size from tiny Chihuahuas to enormous Great Danes and it’s important to think about what size dog suits you best. For example, those with smaller homes or less time for walks are better suited to dogs that require less exercise and less room to roam. Similarly, you should consider what temperament you are looking for; would a calm, older dog be best or are you looking for a much more lively companion?
Will Family Members Welcome a New Dog?
If you live alone, then this doesn’t apply to you. However, if you have a family or existing pets it’s important to consider whether or not they will welcome a new dog into the home. Not all children are comfortable around dogs and not all pets socialize well, so consider this when making your decision.
As you can see, there are a few things to consider before adopting a dog. However, with the right amount of research and planning, adopting a dog can be an enjoyable and exciting experience for everyone involved.