If you are thinking about getting a dog, then you may be excited at the thought of getting a furry addition to the family. This is great, but you still need to make sure that you think about the expense and the breed.
Dogs are for Life
Did you know that the average lifespan of a dog is 13 years? For this reason, you have to make sure that you are ready to make that kind of commitment. You need to make sure that you are ready to love your puppy long after they grow out of their “cute and fluffy” stage. As they get older, they will turn into a rambunctious teenager before they finally calm down, so make sure that you are in it for the long haul.
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Lifetime Cost
Dogs can be expensive, so you have to make sure that you have the funds to take care of them. You will need to pay out for things such as insurance, and you will also need to pay out for food, water, bed, lead and collar. Other accessories such as training tools or treat bags may also be required, so make sure that you give this a good amount of thought before you decide to pick up your dog. Some dogs may also have unexpected healthcare costs when it comes to certain ailments. Golden retrievers for example can develop a condition called hip dysplasia, and this can cost thousands should they ever need to undergo surgery. Food can also be expensive for bigger dogs. If you want some help with choosing your dog food, check out dogfoodcare.com.
Do your Research
Before you go out and pick up your dog, it’s vital that you do your research. You need to find a breed that is suitable for you and your surroundings. You also need to take into account the size of your home and any living arrangements you might have. Think about it, do you live in the city, or do you live in the countryside? Do you have any family commitments? What about small children? If you have very young children, then getting a dog like a newfoundland may not be the best choice. On the flip side, if you have very energetic kids who love to play then a golden retriever may be the perfect choice.
Time Consuming
Get ready to give up a lot of your time. Bringing up a puppy will mean that you have to take responsibility and you also need to make sure that you are able to put their needs before your own. You can’t just go for a fun weekend with your friends like you might be used to, and you will need to plan out who is going to look after your dog and feed them in your absence.
Of course, if you want to make sure that your dog gets the happiest home possible then it is a good idea for you to try and put in the work to know your breed and to also be prepared. If you can do this then there’s no reason why your dog can’t become a loved and looked-after member of the family.
