Tips To Help You Decide Whether Now Is The Right Time To Get A Dog

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Most dog owners will tell you that their canine companion is part of the family, but getting a pet isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. Dogs require a lot of time and attention, and they’re not always the perfect fit for every family. If you’re toying with the idea of adding a furry friend to your family, here are some tips to help you decide whether now is the right time. 

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Calculate the costs

The cost of living is dominating the headlines at the moment. A survey conducted by the Office for National Statistics suggested that 24 million people were trying to use less energy and 16 million people were cutting back on food and essential items in June 2022. Before you start thinking seriously about getting a pet, it’s crucial to consider your financial situation. Looking after a dog can be expensive. As well as buying essentials, such as food, you’ll also need to add insurance and vet fees. Studies show that the average owner spends £1,875 per year caring for their dog. It’s important to note that if you plan to hire a dog walker, or you’re exploring options, such as doggy daycare or boarding, the cost will be significantly higher. 

In many cases, you’ll also need to think about if you can afford to buy a dog. The cost of puppies varies hugely, but some of the most popular breeds sell for thousands of pounds. If you’re looking to save money and help dogs that have been abandoned or rehomed due to their owner being ill or unable to look after them, it’s an excellent idea to consider adopting a dog. You can learn more online and contact charities and shelters to find out how to get a rescue dog. Since the pandemic, many charities have experienced an influx of puppies and older dogs as people have returned to work or realised that looking after a dog is too expensive or time-consuming. Rescuing is a wonderful way to give a dog a loving home but it’s crucial to do your research first and learn more about the process. 

Understand the time commitment

One of the main reasons people take their dogs to charities and rescue centres is a lack of time. If you’ve never owned a dog before, you may not be aware of just how much time you’ll need to devote to your pup. Dogs are sociable creatures, they crave attention and affection and they need to be let out regularly to exercise and go to the toilet. You shouldn’t leave dogs for long periods and they cannot be left alone overnight. If you already have a hectic schedule, you travel for work frequently or spend a lot of time away from home, or you’re out all day every day, it’s wise to consider other types of pets. Cats, for example, are much more self-sufficient than dogs and they can be left for longer. 

If you are desperate to get a dog, but you’re not at home every day, there are options to consider, including paying for a dog walking or daycare service. If you switch between working from home and going to the office, for example, this could work for you. You could also ask family members or neighbours to help out and join forces with them to create a rota if they also have dogs. 

Consider your lifestyle

Dogs can fit seamlessly into everyday life in many homes, but this is not always the case. If you don’t enjoy exercise, or you’re a fan of making spontaneous plans or going travelling, for example, you may find that getting a dog doesn’t suit your lifestyle. Dogs need regular exercise and they can be boisterous and energetic. They also need to be looked after all the time, which can make it more difficult to travel or make plans at short notice. If you go on holiday once or twice a year, or you have friends and relatives who don’t mind dog-sitting, this won’t be an issue, but it’s important to think about whether a dog will fit in with your lifestyle. 

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Recognise that it’s a long-term commitment

Some pet owners liken getting a dog to having a child. Puppies are balls of boundless energy, they love to play and they want attention all the time. As dogs get older, they may be less energetic, but they’ll still need caring for and most seek out love and affection. Looking after a dog is a long-term commitment, which should never be taken lightly. Your dog will be reliant on you for food, clean water, a warm, comfortable, safe home and regular walks. It’s critical to make sure that you understand the scale of the challenge as well as the incredible benefits of having a new best friend. 

Think about your home

Many of us long to have a pet, but the environment in which we live isn’t always suitable. Dogs are a very different proposition from other pets, including cats and small animals, such as hamsters and guinea pigs. They need space and it’s hugely beneficial to have easy access to a garden and green areas to go walking. If you have a small house, it’s best to avoid getting a big dog. If you live in a flat with no garden or parks nearby, it’s wise to look for a breed that doesn’t need a lot of exercise. Examples include bulldogs, chow chows, basset hounds and Boston terriers. Breeds that need the most exercise include spaniels, golden retrievers, German shepherds, boxers and border collies.

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There are several benefits to getting a dog but there are also potential pitfalls and problems. If you’re thinking about adding a canine companion to your home, it’s important to think carefully about whether you can afford a dog and make sure that you understand the commitment involved. Research different breeds, consider your home and lifestyle and ensure that you have enough time and energy to look after a new furry friend. Dogs are incredibly loving but they crave attention and affection and they need exercise. If you’re busy, you’re never home, you have a sedentary lifestyle or you’re struggling to cover your bills, you may want to wait a bit longer or consider other types of pets.

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