Who doesn’t like wagging tails and a warm welcome on returning home? Although their sloppy licks can be discomforting to some people, they get used to it over a period of time. It’s the unconditional love and the affectionate approach that melts one’s heart. Yes, you guessed it right! Dogs are the most adorable, loyal, and friendliest beings on earth. That’s the reason they are called a man’s best friend. And if you are fond of pets, you might have wondered several times in your life- should I get a dog?
It is obviously tempting to have a pet at home so that you can play with them. But, it’s a huge responsibility and a demanding job. People who own a pet can help you to understand what are the responsibilities of owning a dog. However, you must know a few things before you get one. So that you have a clear picture of what it looks like to have a dog. And whether or not you are ready to have a pet in your life.
Should I Get A Dog? Are You Wondering This?
Then, let’s look at a few important things you should be aware of before getting a dog.
A Dog is a Living Being and Not a Toy- Please Bear in Mind!
Just because they are furry, small, playful, and cute doesn’t mean they are lifeless. They are just like us, one of the most beautiful living beings. So, you have to take care of your pet at all times. You’ll have to pay attention to all its needs.
People just don’t realize this and they treat their pets just like other stray animal. So, don’t be one of those wild and selfish human beings. If you can take care of your pet and shower affection only then get a dog.
It is Just Like Another Child at Home
Believe me, it’s not easy to raise a child. And just like children, having a pet is like a child-rearing activity but here it’s a dog. They are naughty, they poop everywhere, they don’t understand your gestures or words, and above all, they don’t know what is right or wrong. That’s because they are of different species.
So, you may have to be with them all the time until they grow up and understand your commands. In addition to this, the dogs are demanding as well just like children. They ask for love, care, a patting on the back, a rub on the belly, and a little scratching on the head. If you are ready to do all this, then there is a positive response to your question- Should I get a dog?
Is it a Unanimous Decision to Own a Dog?
Whether you like it or not, but you might have to ask your family members for their approval. Owning a dog means it will be staying with you and it will become a part of your family. Furthermore, you have to see to it that no member of the family is allergic to a dog.
Many people aren’t sure of the allergies first and they make a random decision to own a pet. On discovery of the allergy, they just dump the pet into a rescue home. So, to prevent this disaster, make sure you and your family members do not have any allergies. And that they all are happy to own an animal companion.
Have You Calculated the Costs Involved?
Since it is a new addition to your family, your monthly expenditures may surge a bit. It depends on the breed you have got. The needs of each breed are different and you can get the information from your pet dealer.
Also, the cost of a special or high-quality breed is on the expensive side. Do take a look at your budget and your daily expenditures. Having a dog also requires a financial commitment. If you work for long hours then you may require to hire dog daycare services or a dog-walker. So, before you ask yourself- should I get a dog, do study your budgeting and expenses.
Training the Pet is Indispensable
Your dog won’t obey your commands unless you train him effectively. It takes effort to train a dog. A pet obeys your orders only when you give him small rewards for accomplishing a task. The rewards are mostly in the form of small dog cookies or dog treats.
Experts say, poop training, making it sit in a place, or fetching a ball, all must be done at an early stage. When a puppy is seven or eight weeks old you must start with gentle teaching. Some breeds register the commands quickly while others take time. However, the attention span of all dogs is limited hence, the training has to be short & simple, and to be conducted daily.
If It’s Your First Time- Go for a Family Friendly Breed
Choosing a particular breed of dog is difficult. That’s because you have to take your location into consideration. If you stay in a tropical region, you cannot have double-coat dogs like Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky, Samoyed, or any other Snow-dog. So, before you ask yourself- Should I get a dog, better ask which breed?
Additionally, if you are going to get a dog for the very first time, make sure that you go for a friendly breed. For instance, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Pugs, Beagle, Bichon Frise, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Irish Setters, etc. are some of the friendliest breeds and they can be easily managed if trained well.
Avoid the hunter and other dangerous breeds like American Pit Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, German Shepherd, or Bullmastiff. They are tough to train and incorrigible if not taught to obey the commands.
Go for a Rescue Dog- Save A Life and Money Both at The Same Time
Many people will suggest you get a high-quality breed or a special breed. But if you get a rescue dog, you’d be saving a life, giving it food, care, and shelter. And believe me, there is nothing more worthy than seeing how a rescue dog showers affection on you. It will be loyal and affectionate more than any other breed on this earth.
That’s because rescue dogs suffer a lot of abuse from their previous owners. Those rescue dogs know the importance of family and shelter. Above all, you would be saving money as well. Rescue dogs are cheaper than other expensive breeds. If you ask yourself- should I get a dog? Then do consider getting a rescue dog.
You Cannot Ignore Dog Vaccinations, Grooming, and Medications
Once a dog is a part of your family, you’ll be responsible for taking care of all its needs. That includes vaccinating, providing medication, and grooming on a time-to-time basis. You cannot ignore the well-being of a dog.
You’ll have to serve it all your life. But it’s indeed fun to care for your pet. You won’t feel like you are under any obligation. If you are ready to dedicate your time to your pet then yes, you should get a dog. Conduct thorough research online, and keep track of vaccine shots you got for your dog.
Pets Need Proper Diet and Exercising
This doesn’t need much of an explanation because just like human beings, dogs also need a proper diet chart and exercise routine scheduled. If the pets are poorly fed, they can become indisposed and inactive.
Also, a daily walk in the park or playing with them, and following an exercise schedule can keep your pets healthy. You just can’t keep them on a leash all day long. You may have to figure out a way to maintain their health and make some changes in your lifestyle.
Traveling May Be Restricted
Another aspect you’ve got to bear in mind, that you might have to cut short your travel plans. You cannot have your dog with you if you are a frequent traveler. If you have someone back at home to take care of your pet then well and good.
But if you stay alone and you have no one to take care of your pet, then you might land in soup. Also, you might have to check with different airlines that allow pets on board. Even some hotels have strict pet rules that you may have to comply with.
So, in short, it’s not easy to travel with your pet and you’ll also have to consider that part when you ask yourself- should I get a dog?
Pets are Fun but They Can Be a Pain in the Butt
Dogs are extremely active and agile. They like playing with balls & tissue rolls, biting off shoes & rugs, and peeing on anything that smells weird. Also, the habit of chewing anything they like can be quite annoying. But if they are provided with good training, they won’t be this nasty.
Furthermore, it takes patience and love to stop the pets from being a nuisance. You’ve got to be equally strict and soft if the dog behaves indifferently. Study the behavior of your dog and treat him accordingly. You can find many reference articles online to understand how to deal with a disobedient dog.
Do Not Disregard the Space Requirement
Yes, you require a relatively big space to accommodate a new family member. If you have small apartments, you can still have a dog. But you should go for smaller breeds like pug, beagle, or Shih Tzu.
Also, do not overlook the fact that dogs need open space to play. They shouldn’t feel confined in smaller houses. If you have a huge deck or lawn that would be an added advantage to keep a dog. So, if you are still in the phase – should I get a dog, then make sure you have enough space to have a dog.
They Can’t Be Left Alone for a Long Time
Just like I mentioned before, if you have travel plans you need to either carry your pet along or you may have to drop them in a daycare shelter. Additionally, you may also have to shorten your travel plans. That’s because you cannot leave your dog alone for a long time.
Arranging a caretaker can be of great help or any of your family members can come over to your place for a couple of days and be with your pet. These are some solutions to prevent your dog from getting dispirited. Don’t forget dogs also have feelings and they’ll miss you badly if you aren’t around for too long.
Dogs Have a Short Life-Span
As per nature’s law, a dog lives around 10 or 12 years. Its life span typically lasts around a decade or so but in some cases, they live over 15 years. Whatever the case, as your dog grows older, he may suffer from significant health issues in his last years.
It’s a sad reality, but you have got to be prepared for it beforehand. That’s because having a dog and living with it is an emotional journey. You grow a strong attachment with that animal and eventually, you lose him someday. So, you have to be mentally strong to face that situation. If you are emotionally weak, avoid getting a pet. That’s a No to your question- should I get a dog?
Conclusion
Lastly, if You are Still Stuck on the Question- Should I Get A Dog, Ask Yourself Are you Ready for a Lifetime Commitment?
Here, you won’t be reading vows on getting a dog. But yes, you’ll have to be sure that you can commit to taking care of your pet. There will be many situations in life that can be trying. You may face several ups and downs including financial crisis (bankruptcy) and other emotional trauma (death in the family).
So, you’ve got to be sure that you can take care of your dog even during such unforeseen circumstances. If you are committed to staying with your dog no matter what, then you should get a dog. Not just to treat it like a pet, but more like a best friend.
