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Things to Consider Before Buying a Dog
Purchasing a dog can be one of the most rewarding experiences for you and your family. However, if the decision is taken lightly, it can quickly become one of the most stressful experiences for your family. Before making the decision to go puppy shopping, you and your family need to take into consideration several things. This will ensure the happiness of everyone in the family, as well as the dog.
Where will Fido stay? Before you purchase a dog, you need to know exactly where you want him to sleep at night and where you will keep him during the day. Giving a puppy free reign of the house while you are away is an invitation for disaster. Not only may you come home to a calamity of chaos, but your puppy could potentially get hurt if left unattended. Many people leave their dogs in a small room or block off a portion of their house while they are at work or out running errands. At night, it may be best to put the puppy in a kennel until he is housebroken.
What are Your Expectations? What are the qualities you are looking for in a dog? Do you want a lap dog to watch movies with or an athletic dog to go jogging with? It is also important to consider the size of dog you want. For example, a Labrador would love to go jogging with you, but if you have a small apartment, a Whipet may be a more appropriate running partner.
You should also think about breed characteristics and how they will affect you and your family. For instance, does anyone in your household have a severe case of allergies? If so, you will want to start looking at the non-allergenic breeds. Also, think about habits that may annoy you such as digging, howling, yipping, and snoring. These are all things you need to be honest about so you can find the breed with the qualities you desire.
Are You Prepared for the Cost? Puppies are fun and can bring so much joy into your life. However, before bringing one home you need to be realistic about how much a puppy will cost you. Many people think they will only have to provide a puppy with food, water and yearly shots. If only that were the case! The truth is that there is much more to caring for a puppy.
While you will have to have your puppy vaccinated yearly and provide them with food and water, you will also have to fork over money for many unforeseen things. What if your adorable puppy has an allergy that requires daily medicine? Are you prepared to pay for unexpected veterinary bills when he gets sick or breaks a leg? Remember to plan for grooming fees, too. Also, take into consideration the life span of that little puppy you’re bringing home, because he may be with you for 15-20 years.
The fact is that owning a dog is a wonderful thing and there is so much joy and happiness that can come from it. However, before you and your family can experience all of the positive things a dog can bring into your lives, you have to do your research and think about everything that goes into being a responsible dog owner. If you fail to do this, it is very likely that once the “new” wears off you will be left with a dog who is more of a nuisance to you and your family than a loving and faithful companion.
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