When you and your family feel as though they are ready to take on a new furry family member, the joy runs tandem with the anxiety of just how to do it. There are several different things you’ll have to consider when you’re looking for the perfect family dog.
No matter which dog you choose, there are financial responsibilities and other time commitments you’ll have to uphold to have a well-adjusted dog. Take a moment now to read over a brief collection of some helpful tips for getting a new family dog.
Consider the age of your children
The age of your child or children matters when you are choosing a good candidate for your family dog. Young children tend to be very hands-on in their approach to animals.
You’ll need a dog that can have patience when the kids are getting a little grabby. If you have older children, you may want to get a more high maintenance dog. Regardless, consider your kids first.
Consider your schedule
Dogs take more personal care than cats. Choosing to adopt a dog as a pet means you’ll have to have the time to walk the dog, bathe the dog, feed the pup, give your dog their favorite treat, and perform other rituals of care.
If everyone in your house is gone all the time, a dog may not be the best choice for a pet. Working from home or fulfilling the role of looking after the house means that your lifestyle permits for time to be spent training and caring for the dog.
Choosing the breed of dog you want should be influenced by the lifestyle your family upholds. Living a busy life doesn’t mean you can’t handle the addition of a furry friend. Have a family meeting about commitments needed to care for a family dog, and gauge where you’re at from there.
Consider the accommodations
The size and breed of your dog should be well-matched with the size of your home and yard. Your dog will need a place to run and use the restroom throughout the day. If you have a large dog, you need space.
Consider the allergens
If you have a family member who is allergic to dogs, it doesn’t always mean you simply cannot have a pup in your home. There are some dog breeds that are less allergenic than others. Do your research to find the perfect pet for your family.
Adopt a pet from a local shelter
Purebred and designer pets are great, but there are millions of strays in shelters around the world that need a loving home. Put a pinprick in the homeless population, and adopt from your local shelter.
