Is your family still searching for that missing piece? Maybe you’re finally ready to consider adding a four-legged family member. Dogs make excellent pets, and they can help teach your kids about responsibility.
That’s said, adopting a tyke for your tykes isn’t a minor decision. Before bringing a pup home, you may want to consider how owning a dog will change your life.
The most kid-friendly dog breeds
If you have children, it’s a good idea to start with kid-friendly breeds. From the size of your yard to how much daily exercise you can provide, it’s essential to choose a dog breed that fits your family dynamic.
Cocker spaniels and pugs make excellent family pets if you want a smaller dog. If you prefer a giant breed, you may want to look for poodles or labrador retrievers. Try looking for English Lab puppies for sale if you’re in search of a puppy that can grow alongside your little ones. Before choosing a breeder, it’s a good idea to conduct the necessary research and training into to find a reputable one, so be sure to ask plenty of questions throughout your search process.
Stock up on patience
House training a pup is no easy feat, even with the help of puppy pads. What’s more, the training doesn’t stop once your furry friend is housebroken. There are still many commands and behaviors to teach your canine student. Plus, you’ll want to curb bad habits like whining at the table and gnawing on shoes and furniture. Training your puppy is doable, but it’ll take a pound of patience.
Allergies can be problematic
Even if everybody in your household can handle pet dander, you may have the occasional visitor that sneezes and sniffles around your pup. If that’s the case, give friends and family a heads up to stock up on Benadryl before they visit your newest addition.
Consider the commitment
Raising a puppy is a long-term commitment. Dogs don’t live as long as humans, but they will be with you for anywhere from ten to twenty years. Consider how a lifespan’s worth of vet visits, walks, feedings, and more will look. If it seems like too much for you, you may want to wait a few years before you adopt.
What will vacation look like?
Family vacation looks a little different when you have a dog. Either you find a pup-friendly adventure and take Fido along, or you need a dog sitter. You can also choose to board your pup at a doggy daycare or consider kip dogboarding, but you’ll have to count that into your vacation budget.
It’s a financial commitment
It all starts with paying for your dog, which can range from an adoption fee to paying the total price to a breeder. Then there’s food, toys, grooming supplies, and visits to the veterinarian. Don’t forget to pay for your puppy’s license with your local municipality. If you’re stretched thin, you might want to wait before investing in a new pet.
You gain a best friend
Adopting or purchasing a dog opens the door for a new furry best friend. Like any other friend, you can expect plenty of laughs and snuggles. Bringing a dog into your family can improve your health both mentally and physically.
Before you go
The benefits of adding a dog to your family cannot be understated, but all that joy comes at a cost. It’s important to fully consider the commitment to having a pet, including the financials and time. At the end of the day, most dog parents will tell you that curling up with a loving ball of fur is well worth the investment.