So, you’ve decided to get a dog. The first question I have is why?
Is it because your elderly father just lost his spouse, and you want to get him a dog to help with his depression because you think he needs the company? (Not a good idea.)
Or is it because your children have been begging you for a dog, and the pressure is becoming unbearable? Of course, the kids will promise, "We will take care of it." RIGHT!!!
Or did you watch a movie featuring a cute dog that behaves well? (Remember, it’s just a movie.)
I just saw one today. A gentleman mentions that his wife wants a guard dog, and the dog would live outside. (This is another poor idea.) Dogs are social animals; they want to be with their pack. You!!
If you want to get a dog, make sure to think it through. Dogs require a lot of work, and puppies demand even more. Puppies are like having an infant around, except they chew, cry, bark, and go potty in the house. In fact, for the first year, a puppy can be more work than an infant. They are also living, breathing creatures and will be part of your family for possibly 15 years.
And then there’s the cost. According to an article in Money magazine, a small dog can cost $15,051 over its lifetime, a medium-sized dog $15,782, and a large dog $14,480. Are you sure you want a dog? Better grab your checkbook if you really want that dog. Of course, pet insurance is now available, which may be a way to economically spread out the cost of vet visits.
Still want that dog? Okay!! So, let’s consider what kind of dog you want. What breed? What do you want to do with the dog? Are you an active person? If not, don’t get a Border Collie or Australian Shepherd. Do you live in an apartment? Then you probably want to steer clear of noisy dogs like beagles or Yorkies or dogs that require a lot of exercise like Labradors or sporting breeds. Do you want a poodle? Be prepared to invest time in grooming or be willing to pay for a groomer. Do you want a rescue dog or a purebred from a breeder?
And this is just the tip of the food bowl. Get it? It's like the tip of the iceberg. Enough food for thought right now. Please watch for additional blog posts on this subject.