What to Consider Before Adopting a Dog

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Maybe it’s the warm memories of a childhood hound, the images of Marley romping across the movie screen or your child’s daily pleads to add a furry friend to the family. Whatever your reason for considering dog adoption, the decision should be carefully weighed before bringing home a pooch to call your own. You’ll need to think about lifestyle and cost considerations, as well as what type of dog is right for you and where to get your dog.

Lifestyle Considerations

This is one of the most important things to take into consideration. There is nothing worse than getting a dog that needs a lot of exercise and is energetic and not having the room or time to spend with it. This leads to bad behavior and in some cases bad dog anxiety that causes negative affects for your dog and its health.

1. Doggie Daycare – Who will let the dog out while you’re at work and/or school? Will you need daycare for your new pet?

2. Travel – Do you travel frequently? If so, do you have friend or family member who will dog sit? (Consider a pet swap.) Or, are you willing to make arrangements for the dog to tag along?

3. Home Environment – Where will the dog spend most of his time, and is that space conducive to dogs? Will you need a crate or a kennel for the dog?

Cost Considerations

Dogs are an expensive pet to have. You should take into consideration the following list of dog related expenses.

1. Veterinary bills – Annual checkups, vaccinations, any medications or preventative medicine such as heartworm pills

2. Dog food

3. Supplies – Crate, toys, dog bed, outdoor kennel if you’ll be keeping the dog outside, leashes, collars

4. Obedience training

5. Kennel

Type of Dog

1. Temperament – Choose a breed with a temperament that fits your situation. For those with small children, an aggressive dog is not ideal, while a dog that prefers a nap over a run is not suited for very active individuals.

2. Large vs. Small – Remember: puppies will grow. Know the size range for the dog you select so you’re not surprised if Fido grows to 100+ pounds.

3. Allergies – If you have a pet hair allergy, consider a dog that’s hypoallergenic, like a Shih Tzu or Maltese. If you suspect you have an allergy, get tested
before adopting.

4. Puppy vs. Adult – Everyone loves a puppy! But they require much effort and attention. Ask yourself whether you want to house train a puppy, or if you’d rather adopt an older dog who’s fully trained and has less energy to burn. Puppies also require more initial veterinary care.

Where to Get Your Dog

There are many different options when it comes to where to get your dog. In my opinion the best place to get a dog is from the pound. Not only does it save dogs lives but it helps make room for new dogs to be kept.

Animal Rescue – These are organizations or individuals that rescue dogs (sometimes, a specific breed of dog) who have been abused, lost or given up for adoption

Humane Society – Similar to a rescue, but usually offers a larger selection of pets

Dog Breeder – A good source if you prefer a purebred dog

Making a decision about a pet can be daunting, but contemplating the pros and cons of dog ownership before bringing the dog into your home is important. Your new dog will thank you!

Resources For Dog Ownership

Food Dogs Should Never Eat
Humane Society
this site has many links and resources about dogs and vets.
dog poem
All knowledge is contained in the dog."
SPCA International – Advancing the Safety and Well-being of Animals.
list of diseases that dogs can get and some that can be passed on.

Resource by L.Fuller

I am a fanatic when it comes to fitness and nutrition. I enjoy going to the gym, working out, hiking, camping, and overall just learning how to stay happy and healthy.

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