Have you always wanted a furry friend or are you currently thinking about getting one? Do you often find yourself thinking it’s time to get a dog but you’re not sure if you’re ready for one?
Having a dog is no easy walk in the park. You’ll have to learn how to crate train a puppy, teach them basic commands, and take walks with them daily so they can get their daily exercise. But it is definitely rewarding and you’ll receive tons of kisses and laughter.
Below, we will find out if you are ready to have a dog. Being prepared before getting a pup is key so it’s crucial to be aware of the huge commitment and responsibilities that lie ahead.
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Are You Ready For A Dog?
Bringing a dog into your home requires advance planning and careful consideration. Be aware that it will change your household’s dynamic, whether you have a big family, share a space with a significant other, or live with a few roommates.
Having a four-legged friend is a long-term commitment that will change your daily routines and lifestyles. Expect to reorganize your home so it is pet-friendly.
It’s important to note that dogs typically need more space to roam free. When you’re planning and preparing, designate a space in your house to place a dog bed, a dog crate, and the food and water bowl.
Be ready to take your dog out for walks daily so they could use the bathroom. Luckily, most dogs will cry or show signs to let you know when they need to go to the bathroom.
Once you bring home your little furry companion, you’ll need to spend time with them. This is when you’ll train them so they become disciplined and house-trained.
You may be aware that dogs need to be fed every day. It’s important to provide them with a well-balanced, wholesome, and nutritious meal. Avoid any food that contains too much salt or sugar. Also, keep your pooch away from toxic ingredients like garlic or onions.
Dogs will also require love and affection from their owners and family members. They will also require playtime both indoor and outdoor. Every day, you’ll also need to walk your dogs so that they can do their business.
It is important to understand the long-term commitment that comes with dog ownership. The average lifespan of a dog is around 10 to 13 years but varies depending on the dog breed. Your commitment also depends on the age of the dog.
Therefore in most cases, be aware that your furry friends will be with you for many years to come. Once you have a puppy, your work routine, daily lifestyle, and home space may have to change.
Things to Consider Before Getting a Dog
Work Routine
Every dog needs companionship, food, water, and daily exercise. The first step is to take a look at your schedule and work routine.
Is there enough time in your schedule to attend to or take care of your dog? If you live alone and work long hours, it may be difficult. But if you have a pet sitter or friend who can look after your pup when you’re working weekends or taking that business trip, it may work.
Otherwise, consider rescheduling your work routine. You can work from home or bring your pup to the office if it is allowed.
It’s a smart idea to install a programmable electronic dog door so your pup can enjoy some fresh air during the day. This way, whether you’re home or not, your pup can head outside and get his needed exercise.
If you choose to get an automatic dog door, select one that has an access control system with programmable timers so you can program the setting and timer of when your pooch can head out to the backyard.
For instance, you can program the dog door to remain unlock between 7 am to 5 pm. During this period, your pup can head outside and enjoy the grass. When the door detects your dog’s microchip or SmartKey, it will allow your dog through.
Daily Routine and Lifestyle
The next step is to go over your daily routine, lifestyle habits, and outdoor activities.
After work, do you usually head home or do you have to go to the gym every day? Do you frequently take long-term vacations or a short vacation once every few months? Do you go fishing, skiing, or cycling every weekend?
If you’re an active person, it may be a good idea to get an active dog breed that also enjoys outdoor activities. Think about whether you are willing to give up some of your regular habits or activities to accommodate your pooch.
Family Members
If you’re living with roommates, spouses, significant others, or children, it’s important to know their likes and dislikes preferences. Ask yourself the following questions:
- Do they like dogs?
- Are they willing to help you take care of the dog when you’re out or at work?
- Are they ok with sharing their space with your dog?
- Is your dog compatible with infants, toddlers, or small children in the house?
- Are your children willing to learn how to properly interact with a dog?
Home Space
Is your home or living space dog-friendly? Is your home large enough so your pups have enough room to roam around? Do you have a front or back yard? If not, is there a nearby park for them to play?
Some owners rent an apartment. If this is the case, does your landlord or lease allow pets such as dogs? If you own or rent a house, condo, or townhouse that is part of a homeowners’ association, you may be subject to the rules in the Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs). Does the CC&R allow or prohibit any types of pets?
Finding out the answer to these questions before getting a dog will save you a lot of time and avoid any headaches later.
Dog Allergies
Do you have any sort of allergies to dogs? According to The Humane Society, millions of pet owners are still able to share their homes with pets, even those who are allergic to animals. So the good news is that you can still have pets in your home even if you’ve been diagnosed with a pet allergy.
It’s crucial to understand what allergies you have. Speak with your doctor to see if antihistamines or decongestant sprays would help. Ask if allergy shots would help you or choose a dog breed that will not cause you to have an allergic reaction.
There are no allergy-free canine breeds, but there are exceptions including poodles, Afghans, Bichon Frises, Portuguese water dogs, and certain terriers.
Key Takeaway
Before getting a puppy, take a look at your work routine, daily lifestyle, home space, and check to find out if you have any dog allergies. Once you have a pup, you’ll have to attend to and take care of them. In this way, you may have to rework your schedule.
Many dog lovers will incorporate their furry friends into their busy schedules and redesign their house to make it more dog-friendly. In return, the dogs provide their owners with their lifetime of companionship, loyalty, and happiness.
With over five years of specialized experience as an animal writer, my expertise lies in dog nutrition, health, behavior, grooming, and training. I am dedicated to delivering helpful and informative content that caters to the well-being of our furry friends. My primary goal is to empower pet owners with knowledge and ensure our canine companions thrive in health and happiness. In my free time, I love volunteering at local dog rescue centers.
