Have you been weighing the pros and cons of adopting a puppy? Are the scales starting to tip in favor of adoption, with you starting to believe it’s the best decision? Before you go ahead and pick a puppy, there are some basic things worth knowing. While these may not change your mind, they can help you go into the process with eyes wide open and with realistic expectations.
Here are five things to know before you get a puppy.
Table of Contents
It’s Important to Choose the Right Puppy for Your Lifestyle
There is no question that puppies are adorable. One look at you with their sweet and gentle eyes is probably all it takes to melt your heart. But unfortunately, making your decision based on the level of cuteness isn’t a wise plan. Different breeds have different traits, it’s just a fact.
This means it’s important to be honest with yourself about your lifestyle, how much time and attention you have to give a dog if there are other animals in the house, if you have kids or plan on having kids, how much outdoor space you have, the kind of temperament you’re looking for, and so forth.
Once you start to narrow down what it is that you’re looking for, then you can start to research the various breeds to find those that match up with your lifestyle. Mixed breeds are also a great option since they can combine so many wonderful traits.
Owning a Dog Is an On-Going Cost
You may have given attention to the cost of adopting a dog and the initial vet appointment, but that’s not the end. Owning a dog is an ongoing cost that will include food, pet health insurance, toys, training, accessories such as leashes and crates, vet visits (at least once a year), medication (if applicable), and any other costs that can pop up.
This isn’t meant to scare potential owners; rather, it is meant to be an honest reminder of the many costs of owning a dog.
Dog Separation Anxiety Can Happen with a New Puppy
When you bring home your puppy home, the assumption is that they will fit right in with a little training, and all will be great. And while that can certainly be the case for some, for others it can be a lot more involved. Don’t forget, both you and your puppy are getting used to a new life, a new schedule, new rules, and for the puppy – a new environment.
One of the most common things that can happen is dog separation anxiety. Separation anxiety can be caused by several different reasons and is something that dogs of all ages can experience. There are specific breeds that are more prone to this issue as well, which means as a pet owner, you need to be aware and be prepared to deal with the problem.
While separation anxiety is a complex topic with many different causes and roots, for some dogs it will only happen when they are left by themselves, such as when you head out to work. This is why it’s so important to take enough time to train your puppy right from the start, in the hopes of not having to deal with this issue at all.
There are many tips, tricks, tools, and techniques that can help with separation anxiety, so it’s not something you want to ignore or tell yourself it’s not fixable.
Dogs Can Live a Very Long Life
Depending on the breed you get, you can expect your dog to live 12-16 years. That’s a big commitment and you have to ask yourself if you can see a dog fitting into your lifestyle for that length of time. Think of all the changes that can happen in your life during that time, will it work?
And with that said, it’s important to note that as a dog reaches their senior years they tend to slow down, may require more assistance, and even medication for issues such as arthritis, and can become more “work” in a sense. Again, it’s best, to be honest about whether you’re prepared to take that on.
Training Will Be Essential
Finally, it’s important to make a note regarding training. Training will be the most important thing you do with your puppy, and it’s something that can continue the rest of their lives. Training will help to keep your dog safe, happy, and secure. They need rules, they need boundaries, and it makes for a more harmonious home for all.
It’s Time to Make Your Decision
By keeping this information in mind, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision on whether or not a puppy is right for you, which breed is best, and what you can expect in those first few weeks and months.