For the most part, avoid assuming a child can take on the responsibility of a
dog. It is far too critical to place that on a child's shoulders. Rather, tell
the child you will be partners in taking care of the puppy together. You can
assign chores, but be prepared to follow up on them. As small children tend to
wane on the excitement of a new puppy once she has chewed up their favorite toys
or piddled on a sweater, the adults will have to be the bottom-line caretakers.
Am I Financially Ready For a Dog?
Even a free puppy is expensive, and often the free ones are the costliest.
There are regular veterinary visits, spay/neuter procedures and vaccinations.
Grooming costs can be as simple as shampoo and brushing at home, but will rise
if your dog requires professional grooming expenses. Flea and tick medication
and other preventative measures are vitally important to your dog, as well as
feeding a high-quality food to ensure optimum health. That doesn't even touch on
emergencies that may occur, such as illness and accidents. You should have plan
in place, such as a savings account, or consider insurance. Pet health care
insurance is widely available and is highly recommended to avoid the
often-heartbreaking situation pet owners may face in an emergency.
The Song Remains the Same.
Now that you have some of the basics out of the way, consider particular
breeds. Some of the most popular breeds today aren't necessarily the best for
everyone. As stated before, breeds have evolved over the years for certain
traits, and while each dog will carry a different personality, you can bet some
of the characteristics will remain the same. Have a beautiful garden you are a
stickler for? Keep in mind that terriers dig. Can't stand dog hair? Golden
Retrievers shed like crazy and they like to be right on top of you at all times.
Sadly, Labradors have been so over bred they are overflowing at animal shelters.
Chihuahuas may be all the rage in Hollywood but they are definitely not for
everyone. That Border Collie that is so adorable and so intelligent? If you do
not provide an outlet for that working energy he will soon be herding your
children and cats. An adult male Great Dane can weigh upwards of 160 pounds so
you may need to think about reinforcing that couch! The point here is each breed
has pros, cons, and an ideal living arrangement. Read about them; ask people who
have a particular breed what they like and dislike. Look at all factors and
angles before deciding on a breed because those inherited traits, good or bad,
will come out sooner or later. If you are aware of them, prepared for them, and
ready for them, you are already ahead of the game. Still have a couple
questions?