5 things you should think about before getting a dog
By: Sarah M S
Tags: Pets, Dog Lover, Education, New Dog Or Puppy, Dogs

So I know many people who go through what I like to call a “dog phase”. A dog phase is where you get it in your head that you really want a dog and you’re so excited for this dog, but then you get the dog and the excitement dies after a few weeks. So I’m writing this for anyone who is considering getting a dog.

1. Do you have time for a dog?

This may seem like a silly question, but it is actually a very legitimate question you need to ask yourself. Many people think dogs are not that much work. People think that you just get a dog, feed it play with it sometimes and let it out to use the restroom. Well my friends, it’s actually much more than that. Dogs (especially puppies) require a lot of attention to be properly cared for. Now I hate comparing a dog to a child but quite frankly, to me my dog is my child. Certain dogs require a lot of time and energy depending on the breed. Some dogs require at least an hour daily of outdoor playtime. You need to really ask yourself- do I have time to spend with my dog each day? If not, reconsider getting a dog.

2. Do you want the responsibility of having a dog? And do you know what that means?

Having a dog can be hard work, although it is also rewarding! Dogs need to fed daily, taken on walks/exercise daily, potty trained if they are puppies which means cleaning up accidents inside the house probably more than you’d like. Now not everyone does this but dogs also have monthly flea and heart worm pills that they should receive. That is another responsibility you have to think about.

3. Can you give a dog a good life that it deserves?

My biggest peeve is when people get a dog and leave it in a crate all day or leave it out in their yard to become a yard ornament. If you get a dog, the last thing it wants is to be left outside by itself all day. You are your dogs person, they want to spend all their time with you so you need to make sure you are willing to make time for an animal in your life, if not I would not get a dog. Give your dog the best life it deserves and nothing less.

4. Do you know that a dog is a long term commitment?

Many people get all excited about getting a dog or a new puppy. They bring the dog home and think it is just the cutest darn thing, then the excitement and cuteness dies off. The puppy pees on your carpet one too many times. The puppy chews up your brand new $200 pair of shoes. The puppy wines in the middle of the night and wakes you up. There are so many things that can drive a person to not want this so-called perfect dog they once envisioned. Understand that having a new dog requires patience. They are in a new environment with unfamiliar sounds, smells, and voices. As a dog owner, you need to empathize with your pet and make them feel comfortable in a new home with you. You need to have patience with as your pet learns their new way of life living with you.

5. Do you know how to properly treat a dog?

Dogs are very smart, endearing, loving, and genuine pets to have. However, they are still animals and have animal instincts. Sometimes, our pets will do things they should not to and we can get angry. It is important to understand how to properly discipline a dog. Never ever hit a dog-especially not on its face. Dog abuse and mistreatment is something that really makes my blood boil. Dogs are so much like humans in the way they respond to treatment. If you use a certain tone with your dog they understand you and will react. It is important to know how to properly treat your dog and discipline them appropriately.

I hope this helped if you are considering getting a dog. I really think people do not realize the responsibility having a dog requires and I hope I was able to give a little insight and perspective into what having a dog may be. Thank you for reading!