Becoming a dog owner can be a wonderful experience for anyone who loves animals. But, cleaning up pet hair can be a nuisance to many people. However, there are many, many dog breeds that will not shed hair throughout your home.
Most people committed to keeping their home, apartment, studio, or loft clean and hairless think they cannot own a dog. Wrong, wrong, wrong!!! There are many breeds of dogs that do not shed. And, many dog breeds adapt well to apartment living.
Just because you are allergic to dogs doesn’t mean you cannot think about becoming a dog owner. There are many breeds of dogs, small and hypoallergenic breeds, that may be your next best friend. Allergy sufferers can own a dog!
Getting a dog can make your life so much better. Think things through carefully. Bring home a puppy after you have done your research! Many people get puppies without considering if they are prepared for the cost and responsibility, simply because they saw a cute dog on Instagram or Facebook. But there is so much more to owning a dog!
Considerations before Becoming a Dog Owner…
Do You Have the Time to Devote to a Puppy?
There are many factors to consider before getting a puppy. Like, do you have time for a dog? A new puppy commands time and attention from morning till night. And, they will chew on things, at first, like a teething baby. Remember, a baby won’t chew your favorite shoes and socks. And, you will need to house break your puppy and teach it to stay at home alone while you are out.
Does your job allow you to take your dog to work, or will you need someone to care for your puppy while at work? Let your dog out consistently. Even once your puppy is grown-up, it would be irresponsible to leave them home alone for the whole work day. Consider a dog walker or maybe doggy daycare. Include this cost in your budget.
Can You Afford to Become a Dog Owner?
Next, consider this before becoming a dog owner! Can you afford a dog? People often think of the initial cost to purchase the pet from a breeder or pet store. Although this is important, it probably isn’t the most important question you face. The substantive cost of having a pet is what comes for the next 10 to 15 years. You will need to pay for the ongoing cost of food, dog bowls and beds, collars or harnesses, leashes, chew toys, training tools and treats, and veterinarian bills.
Can you, or Will You Be a Responsible Pet Owner?
Before jumping in and getting a puppy, make sure you can be a responsible pet owner. Be aware that owning a puppy is not just for today, it is for the dog’s lifetime, which is normally between 10 and 13 years. Moving forward in life, remember to include your newest family member in your plans. But, be honest to yourself and make sure this is what you want. If you do get a dog, you’re responsible for another living creature. Treat God’s creatures in the best way possible. Some of these costs may be predictable, while many are not. You can budget for annual check-ups and vaccinations. What you may not know is the cost of unexpected surgeries that can cost anyone a small fortune. Purchase pet insurance to offset these expenses.
Going for It, Start Your Research!!!!
Once you have decided to do this, it’s time to have fun! Start your research. What breed do you want? A pedigreed pooch, rescued dog or simply a mut? I’ve heard mixed breed pooches make the best pets. Going large, medium, or small? Young or older? Pet store, private breeder, local Humane Society, classified ads, Craigs List? You will find them all around. So many looking for good homes and forever friends.
Dog breeds go in and out of style, just like most things. Pop culture has an impact on our choices. In fact, there are university studies proving that popular films with pet actors play an active role in our dog breed selections. Just the same as those cute puppy pictures on Instagram or Facebook. During the twentieth century, even the breed’s temperament, health, and longevity were less important in choosing a dog than association with popular movies.
These five breeds made the AKC Top 5 List for 2020. But this doesn’t matter, because no matter what type of puppy you decide to get, the right one will pick you when he or she sees you!!!
Just a little something for you if you have one of those pets that emit silent stinky bombs on occasion. Look what we have for you!
Check out my page on “Iggies”, also known as Italian Greyhounds.
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