Getting a dog now, is it a good idea?

 So you want to get a dog?

 I am glad you are here to know everything you need to know before rushing into this big decision! I am going to lead you through a series of questions to help you see if getting a dog right now is a good or bad idea. I don't want to ruin your dreams of owning a special furry friend, but I do want to be realistic about whether getting a dog right now is good for you, and the future dog. 

1. What does my work schedule look like?

This is one of the best questions you could ask yourself! I know that for some people, they need to be at work all day, and that is fine, but not for your dog. The number one thing your dog needs from you is your time! Dogs can't be in their kennels all day; they need breaks for play, socialization, and exercise. So if your schedule doesn't allow you to do this, then maybe now is not the time to get a dog. 

    2. Is everyone in your family on board with this idea?

Whether you are a college student living with roommates or you are part of a family, this is another big question you need to ask yourself. Getting a dog is going to affect EVERYONE in the household! Sit everyone down for a family meeting and hear what they have to say about your idea. When you have reached a place where you all agree, then you may get a dog. It will make your life, and the lives of your family and new dog so much easier! Trust me.

    3. Why do you want a dog?  

This is by far the BIGGEST factor for you getting your dog. Why do you want this? Because all of your friends have a dog? Because it will make you cool and trendy? If you don't have a good reason, then you and this dog won't last. Those reasons that I stated a little while ago are NOT good reasons. Dogs are meant to be a companion, not a way to be cool. When you have a good reason for owning a dog, you put so much more effort into your dog's life. 

    4. What does your budget look like? 

Owning a dog takes a lot of money! To care for your dog in the best way possible you will need to have a secure budget so you can be prepared for things like buying food every month and vet bills. There are monthly costs and annual costs and one time costs. Things like taking your dog to the groomer or buying training tools and toys. If you can't afford to pay for all those little things your dog needs, then maybe right now isn't the best time to get a dog. You also have to think of the cost of the dog. You will want to pay the money to get a good, healthy dog, rather than buy a cheap one off the internet or from a puppy mill. The better quality a dog, the less you will have to spend on unexpected vet bills. When you know that your budget is secure enough to buy a dog, then go for it!

    5. Are you prepared for all the responsibilities that come with owning a dog?

Owning a dog is NOT a piece of cake. I know many of us have this picture in our minds of a nice, well trained dog that is our best friend, one that doesn't have accidents, or chew that couch, or has to be trained. This is not reality! A dog takes responsibility to the next level. There are everyday jobs like taking your dog for a walk, or socializing her. Or things like training your dog to have obedience, or knowing how to care for her like bathing and feeding. Do you have any other pets? If you do, then look at how you care for them. Do you play with them everyday? Have you put in time and energy to train them? If you answered yes, then I am sure you are ready for a dog! If you don't have a pet to test your responsibility levels, think of yourself at work. Do you give your whole self? Do you try hard and get work done? If so, then I believe that you are ready to take on the responsibility of owning a dog! 

If you have gone through all of these questions and still feel like you are able to get a dog, then go for it! I am so happy for you! This is one big step into a wonderful chapter in your life. I am glad you took the time to consider if now is a good time to get a dog! I know that by putting in the time to research that, you have your future dog's best interest in mind! I will be posting more on things such as the right breed of dog for you, what you need before getting a puppy, and whether you should buy from a breeder or shelter. So come back soon to learn about many wonderful and helpful tips for you.