Are you thinking about getting a dog for your family? Well then, it’s important to be aware that this is always going to be a major decision. You need to consider the ramifications carefully and ensure that you aren’t rushing into this decision. As well as that, it’s also important to think about the right type of dog for you. Here are 6 things to consider when choosing a dog to add to your family.
Space
First, you need to think about the issue of space around your home. Obviously, if you have a big home, then you can think about getting a larger breed of dog. In contrast, if you have a smaller home then it’s best to opt for a small dog so they don’t get too cramped. If you’re not familiar with different dog sizes, then we recommend that you look at the size of a pup’s paws. If they have large paws that seem a little like clown shoes compared to the rest of them, they’re going to be big dogs when they grow up.
Of course, it’s not just about the size of the dog. You should think about how much energy they have. Certain breeds run around a lot more than other dogs and as such, they’ll require more space. This doesn’t always go by size so it is absolutely worth doing a little research before settling on the right choice here.
Outdoor space is important too. It’s great if you have a yard outside your home. That way, your dog will have an enclosed area to exercise or just get some much-needed fresh air. However, if you don’t have a space like this, then you’ll need to think about whether there’s anywhere close by that you can give them a run. You could have a dog park near you and this is going to be the perfect option.
Cost
Next, let’s consider the factor of cost. Dogs will always cost money and add to the weight that’s already on your bank account. Even if you opt to adopt a rescue, there are a lot more costs to think about. For instance, there’s the cost of food and big dogs eat more food, therefore, will cost more just to keep them happy with a full belly. Some dogs will also require special food due to specific requirements to do with their weight as well as health conditions.
You also need to think about insuring your dog. Don’t forget, without insurance a medical procedure your pup could need will cost an absolute fortune. It’s also worth noting that as your dog ages, medical conditions become more likely so the cost of insuring them increases.
Time
You should consider time too. Your dog will always take a lot of your time. In the early months, you’ll need to spend a lot of time training your pup. This is easier if you decide to use a professional training service. If you don’t know where to start visit this link to find more information about training courses.
Once they are older, you’ll still need to dedicate time to play with your dog and ensure that they get enough exercise. If you don’t do this, they’ll become bored and potentially destructive.
Rescue Or Breeder?
You also want to think about whether you’re going to get your dog from the rescue center or if you’re going to purchase directly from a breeder. There are pros and cons for both of these, so you should weigh your decision carefully. If you choose a breeder please do your research. You don’t want to get your new puppy from a puppy mill, you want a reputable breeder that really cares for their dogs.
If you are looking for a specific breed and think that in order to find it you have to go to a breeder think again. There are breed-specific rescues that have purebred dogs that are just looking for that special home. You can also check out Petfinder to see what rescue pets are available throughout the United States. Some rescues and shelters will help cover the cost of transporting an animal across the country to a good home.
Of course, you want to love them and give them all the cuddles, but some rescue dogs are simply not able to do this. Just know that a rescue dog, especially an older one, will take a little time to bond with you. You have to be patient and love them enough to show them that whatever happens, you will be there for them. Older rescues can be some of the most wonderful dogs you will ever add to your family once they realize you are not going to abandon them like their previous owner.
Breed
This is an important consideration and one that you should not take lightly. Some people want a big dog, and some people want a small dog, but there is much more to it than that. You should be doing your research into different breeds of dogs, and working out which is going to be best for you. For example, if you have a family that includes small kids, then you want to find out which breeds are the best for this kind of environment. Labradors are known for being fantastic family pets, as they are generally good around kids, safe, and loving towards them while also being protective.
If you want a guard dog, then you want a dog that is known for being more protective and territorial. This could include breeds like German Shepherds or Rottweilers. Just be careful when you’re doing your research though because some of the things that you read are simply not true, or at the very least do not apply to the entire breed.
At the end of the day, the breed is important as it helps you choose the right pet, with the right size and temperament for your needs. But, it’s more about how you are training the dog and raising the dog than anything else. There are some particularly aggressive papillons out there, and some sweetheart bull terriers, depending on how they have been brought up.
Lifestyle
There are some dogs that have more needs than others. If you have a busy lifestyle, then it can be tough to know when you’re going to have time to fit a dog into this, and that’s a huge consideration. If you don’t have time to be at home with your dog, to take them for walks, to cuddle them, and generally just be with them, then is it worth it at all? Or, if you have an unpredictable schedule where one minute you could be at home for a few days but then all of a sudden you’re gone for a few days, is there someone who can look after them for you?
Your dog is not just for certain times of the year, so you need to know that your lifestyle can be flexible enough to include a dog. If it can’t, then you need to know that someone will be able to take care of the dog while you are gone. You also need to be willing to do things like play with them, go on long walks with them, and generally give them a good life.
We hope that you have found this article helpful, and now see some of the things that you are going to need to consider when you are choosing a dog. You should never just settle for the first dog that you see, as it’s important that you bond with your new furry friend. Your dog is going to become a member of your family, so it’s essential that you have a bond with them, and are willing to treat them like another member that you love. If you’re not willing to do this, then you should not be purchasing a dog in the first place, so think carefully about this. We wish you the best of luck and hope that if you do get a dog, it’s the perfect one for you.
