So you’re thinking about getting a dog? That’s great! Before you do, there are a few things to think about. Don’t make a big mistake of getting a dog on impulse. A few things to consider.
- Age: Are you thinking about getting a puppy? Prepare yourself. Puppies are like toddlers 10x in the destructor meter! They pee and poop everywhere, chew everything; and their immune system is low. Don’t take your new pup to the dog park until after 4 months of age and all vaccine shots have been received. I’ve had neighbors get their hearts broken because they decided to cheap out on vaccine, parade the new pup around the neighborhood,
and 1 week later finds out that their pup has Parvo. Very few dogs survive Parvo so don’t risk your puppy’s life. Have puppy pads, bitter sprays, chew toys, and lots of band aids. A puppy sometimes will think you are the chew toy! Furniture? Chew toy! Table? Chew toy! The back of your knees? Chew Toy! I have scars on my arms and legs as proof. Then you stare into their eyes and all you see is this cute innocent fur-ball– all is forgotten. When that little tornado pup starts snuggling next to you…the madness inside you dissipates and all is good with the world. It gets better with time. Training and socializing your new puppy is also very important. It’s the base foundation of having a great dog. Adult dogs are much easier to deal with for the most part. If over one year old, they should be potty-trained, and know a few commands. The only thing to think about is that just like a used car, you don’t know the history of the dog. You really have no idea if the dog has been abused, neglected or have mental issues unless you look deeper and spend a little time with the dog.. Make sure you ask all the questions needed to gain some inside info of the dog especially if adopting. Senior dogs are much more mellow and some already know basic commands.. It’s more difficult to train an older dog but not impossible. Also be prepared for vet bills down the road. - Size: Do you want to put it in your purse? Yorkie or Chihuahua may work. A bit bigger: Staffordshire or Australian Sheppard. Large breed? Labrador Retriever (like mine!) or a super heavyweight lap dog Great Dane.
- Breed: Lots of breed to think about. A few popular ones include: Labrador Retriever, Australian Sheppard, Bulldog, Yorkie, German Sheppard.
- Purebred or Rescue: I always recommend going to a rescue first. The reason why is that so many dogs are neglected in the shelters. Mixed breed or not, they provide similar wet kisses, love, and joy as a purebred. If getting a purebred from a reputable breeder, be prepared to shell out a lot more money. My friend purchased an AKC German Sheppard and she spent $3000. That’s pretty much a used Toyota Corolla. If you have the money and you truly, deeply have the need to buy one, then go for it. Never buy from a puppy mill. The more you “rescue” the longer the puppy mill stays in business.
- Fur: Short, long, or poodle like. If you want less shedding I would recommend a poodle mix. German Shepherds and Huskies are notorious shedders so be ready if that’s the sort of dog you want.
- Family Situation: Do you live in an apartment or a house? Be aware of breed and weight restrictions. Have kids? Find a breed that’s great with kids..hint hint: Labrador Retrievers (Like mine!)
- Temperament: Do you want a calm or mellow dog? An older dog may be the way to go or a Golden Retriever. If you want proven service dogs i would go with….Labs
- Energy Level: This is a big one. Be very honest on the type of energy you have to match the dog you want. If you are a couch potato, please don’t get a Jack Russell–you will hate yourself for it. Consider a bulldog.
- Insurance: This is really up to you and your level of comfort. If you bought a $5000 show dog, I would highly suggest getting insurance. If you got one from the pound, at least make sure you have the first month fully covered and go from there.
Those are a few things to consider when getting a dog. I know it’s a lot to think about, but it’s important to really consider what type of dog you want and the situation you are currently in. Dogs are a great addition to a family and brings more joy and love than you can ever imagine. Planning is essential though. Benjamin Franklin said it best, “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.”
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