Are You Ready For a Puppy? Let’s set the tone for this post: having a dog (or any pet) is NOT always a walk in the park. There is a slew of commitments and responsibilities you should consider before going out and getting your own ball of fluff. Dogs bring an extreme amount of joy into your life, but they can also drain you and your wallet. 

We want to avoid sporadic puppy purchases, such as when the full list of responsibilities is not well planned. Usually, that leads to the dog likely being given up when the new owner finds themselves overwhelmed. This in NO way means “don’t get the dog”, in fact, I’m saying the opposite. Get the dog! You just have to make sure that you are prepared emotionally, physically, socially, AND financially.

Here are some things to consider when evaluating your pet-readiness: 

• Time – Do you have enough time in your day to commit to potty training, socialization and behavioral training? This is KEY. You don’t want a bundle of fluff to make a habit of marking territory in your house. Having a dog means that you are now responsible for the care and well-being of another living being. Most dogs do not do well being locked in a kennel for 10 hours a day while the owner is at work, so keep that in mind when deciding on what dog/age you are wanting to bring into your home. 
• Breed Selection – Does your lifestyle fit the type of dog you want? Frenchies won’t be your running buddy and a Goldendoodle won’t be your guard dog (for the most part). Read up on breed specific illnesses, food allergies and level of activity and mental stimulation is needed for your desired breed. Think about your lifestyle and find a pup who can match it!

• It’s all about the BENJAMINS, baby – Just like you take care of yourself, your dog will need care, too! Being financially ready for regular grooming, food, preventative care and the occasional emergency vet visit when Fido eats your sock is important. The cost of a dog goes far, far beyond the cost of purchasing the dog itself. You want your pup to live a long and happy life without causing your home to go into foreclosure. 
• Space – Have you checked if you have space for a fluffy toddler-like energizer pup to be running around? Or, do you live in the city in a 400 sq ft apartment on the 14th floor of a building? Dogs need space to release energy, potty and explore. Otherwise, they will drive you bananas! If space is a limitation, consider adopting a senior dog from your local shelter! They need limited exercise but still have so much love to give. 

• Commitment – Dogs generally have a 10+ year life expectancy. They are adorable when they’re puppies (and who doesn’t love cuddles from a puppy?) but once the cute baby stage is done and the terrible twos sets in, you should not turn your back on your furry companion. Getting a dog is a serious commitment, not a 6 month rental!

There is  a lot to consider, but if you plan wisely, there is no greater love than the love of a dog! Trust me, a wagging tale and tons of wet kisses is exactly what you need after a stressful day at work. 

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Written by: Markellys