Getting a Dog Soon? Four Things You Need to Know

Are you considering adding a dog to your family but aren’t sure if it’s the right decision? Getting a dog is a lot of responsibility. While they provide love, companionship, and loyalty, owning a dog also means taking care of it by feeding and exercising it, comparing pet insurance, grooming, and training, and providing suitable shelter. If you’re thinking about bringing home a puppy or adult dog as your new best friend, check out our four things you need to know to make that a great experience for both you and your new family member.

1.   Research Your Options

There are many different breeds, ages, and types of dogs available for adoption, so it’s important to know what you’re looking for to find the right fit for your household. If you’re interested in getting a puppy, you’ll want to figure out what breed you’d like to adopt.

There are many things to consider, such as the size of the dog and whether it will be a good fit for your lifestyle, living situation, and children. If you’re interested in adopting an adult dog, you can look for dogs at your local animal shelters and rescues. Many of these dogs are eager to find their forever homes, and there will likely be a variety of different breeds, sizes, and ages.

2.   Find the Right Breed for You

Breed is a big part of finding the right dog for you, and it’s important to think about your lifestyle when choosing one. For example, if you want a dog that can be active indoors and outdoors, a smaller breed like a poodle or terrier would be a great option.

On the other hand, if you want a dog that can tolerate colder temperatures and is more sedentary, a larger breed like a mastiff or pug would be a good fit for you. You can also talk with your veterinarian or local animal shelter or rescue about breed recommendations.

3.   Decide on Whether to Get a Puppy or an Adult Dog

There are many advantages to adopting a puppy and raising it yourself, but there are also a few things you should keep in mind before making this decision. Puppies require a lot of care and attention because they’re growing and need frequent attention when it comes to eating, exercise, and socialization. If you work full-time or have a busy lifestyle, raising a puppy may not be the best option for you.

On the other hand, adopting an adult dog is a great option for those who don’t have the time or energy to raise a puppy. With an adult dog, you can skip the training and socialization phases, and you can get a better idea of its personality and habits going into it. Additionally, adopting an adult dog can be more affordable. Many people adore adopting adult dogs from shelters or rescues and find meaning in providing them with a loving forever home that they otherwise might never have. Pet insurance may not always be available for elderly dogs.

4.   Decide on Your Budget and Where You’ll Get Your Dog

It’s often the case that you’ll spend much less adopting a dog than purchasing one from a breeder. A breeder may cost you $500 to $2000. You can get an adopted dog for $50 to $200. In most cases, they’ll already have their shots and be spayed/neutered, so your pet insurance can go towards other kinds of care.

Before you decide to buy a dog from a breeder, you’ll want to find a reputable breeder. Reputable breeders will have a clean and well-maintained facility, will care for their dogs and puppies, and will be knowledgeable about the breed(s) they breed. They’ll also be able to answer any questions you have about the breed(s) and the care of the puppy. You’ll want to see that the puppies are being socialized. You may also want to ask to see the puppies’ parents to see what they look like and to get an idea of their temperament.

Every Dog Has Its Day

When deciding between adopting a puppy or an adult dog, keep in mind that puppies need lots of attention and training. Adult dogs are a great option for those who don’t have the time or energy to raise a puppy and want a more settled dog that is housebroken and has a good temperament.

There are many different breeds and types of dogs out there, so you’ll want to choose a breed that best fits your lifestyle and home environment. Consider the cost associated with getting a dog, including adoption fees and the cost of general dog care, such as food, shelter, and vaccinations. Lastly, don’t forget that many shelter or rescue dogs will be just as wonderful a companion as one from a breeder.