Dogs are known to be a ‘man’s best friend.’ Humans and dogs have shared a special bond for centuries. Domesticated dogs offer loyalty and companionship to their owners.
The companionship of dogs is much needed for humans to add happiness and calmness to their lives. If you have never owned a dog, you should look at those who have to understand what it gives — just pure joy.
Research shows that being a dog owner can have many benefits like making one stay physically active, reducing feelings of loneliness, calming the nerves, lowering blood pressure, and improving older people’s lives.
Things to Consider Before You Get a Dog
Getting a dog may sound easy, but it involves a lifetime commitment. As a pet owner, you will have to care for your dog’s needs.
Before you step into the big role and make one of the most crucial decisions, you first need to consider a few things before getting a dog.
This article will educate you and help you easily fulfil your duties as a dog owner.
The Breed
The breed’s temperament is much more important than the dog’s look. Considering the breed of the dog before you get one makes it easier for you to decide what you must and must not do as a dog owner. Each breed has different needs, so you must research and decide on the breed that perfectly fits your lifestyle.
You should also take into account which breeds are allowed in an HDB and a private condominium before you get a dog.
Lifestyle
No matter how eager you are to own a dog, that alone will never be enough to bring home one. The decision to get a dog must go well with your lifestyle.
A dog is a living being, and it needs to be given good care. You need to have enough space in your home for the dog to sleep. There is no point in taking home a dog when there is not even space for it to hang around.
Responsibility
From the minute you decide to bring home a dog, you hold complete responsibility for it. You need to make sure you can handle being a good dog owner.
Some dogs shouldn’t be left alone for long hours, and Puppies need to be taken out more regularly for loo breaks.
Daily walks are a must, no matter what the weather is. Are you ready for early morning and evening walks after you get home?
This is a responsibility as a dog owner, so you need to consider if you will have enough time in a day to spend with your dog.
Family
Before bringing home a dog, you must talk to your family and consider their likes and dislikes. Bringing home a dog means welcoming a new member to the family. So everyone at home must agree to accept one.
If you have children, you may need to let them meet the dog before bringing it home. Some dogs may not get along well with kids, so you must let them interact first.
If one person in the family doesn’t like having a dog as a pet, it will get tough for you.
Pet-proof your home
You may need to pet-proof your house before you bring your dog home. This will help to keep your dog and the house safe. Keep all toxic things out of their reach.
Basic accessories
Every dog needs basic accessories like a bed, food bowl, water bowl, collar, leash, and ID tag. You can easily find these in budget-friendly shops.
The Cost
The cost of getting a dog and taking care of it for the long term depends on the breed. You need to factor in the expense of the commitment you need to make before you get a dog.
Some of the costs for the care include –
To purchase or adopt a dog
The cost to purchase or adoption depends on the dog’s breed and age. When getting a dog, your first choice should always be adoption. If adoption is not possible, you can always purchase from a breeder. But ensure the dogs are bred legally and ethically.
Usually, smaller dogs are more affordable than bigger ones, depending on the breed.
Food and treats
As a dog owner, you must provide your dog with good quality food and treats. The daily expense of a smaller dog will be much more affordable than those of the bigger ones. The price of food and treats also depends on their quality, and the higher the quality, the higher the price.
The expenditure for food and treats also depends on your dog’s level of pickiness and its health.
Getting your dog a few toys is essential for its mental development and entertainment so that they don’t damage household items like furniture and shoes.
Medical expenses
Dogs require medical needs, including deworming, annual vaccinations, flea treatments, neutering, and regular vet visits.
Sterilisation
If you are not planning to breed your dog, it is an excellent option to consider sterilisation. However, as more time is needed to perform the surgery for female dogs, it may cost more.
Dog Trainer
Having a dog trainer by your side can be a big support to help you and your dog settle down. A well-trained dog makes it easy for everyone to live peacefully. Proper training is a must to make both the dogs and the owners feel comfortable and secure. Training can also be a good time for the owner and the dog to bond. While it’s an additional cost, it’s totally worth it to gift your dog a healthy and happy life.
Grooming
How frequently your dog may need grooming depends on the thickness of its fur. The longer or thicker the coat, grooming will be necessary quite often. Unless you are skilled enough to groom your own dog, you may need to spend on grooming costs.
Conclusion
Do your own bit of research on the type of dog you want to have in your home. A dog is not just a pet, and once you bring it home, it becomes family. Therefore, it’s important to give your dog equal attention, comfort, and love as you do to your family.
Make sure to get the consent of your family and that they are also happy with the idea of bringing home a dog.
Consider all the factors that you need to fulfil as a pet owner. If you think you can take good care of a dog, then go ahead and bring home the bundle of joy. And ensure you are well-prepared to welcome your new furbaby.
