Magazine : 
5 Things to Know Before Owning a Dog
Imagine the wagging tails sending happy signals your way. Or the enthusiastic welcome at the front door after a long day at work. The prospect of becoming a dog owner certainly sounds terrific. However, raising a furry companion is no walk in the park!
Here are five things to know before bringing home a feisty four-legged one.
- A Dog is a Lifetime Commitment
They say a dog is for life, and rightly so! Because raising a furry one is a massive responsibility. From needing three walks a day to regular dog grooming, they will need a lot of care and attention from your end.
You will need to provide shelter, food, and grooming to your furry one. Also, proper medical care from time to time. But most of all, it will need quality playtime and lots of affection from you. This means you must go out of your way to make time for your furry friends.
If you cannot commit to the responsibility mentally or financially, you are not ready to become a pet parent.
- Consider the Cost of Ownership
Caring for a furry friend from puppyhood to old age can be a costly affair. So before you bring home your own loyal companion, consider doing some financial planning.
Take time to understand how much money you need to raise a healthy canine. Consider factors like quality Dog food, grooming essentials accessories, training fee, toys, etc. You can also speak to a trusted vet to estimate the average expense for routine check-ups, neutering, administering vaccines, etc.
After adding all the costs, do you think you can shoulder the additional expenses comfortably? If yes, then go ahead and get yourself a fuzzy companion
- Not Every Breed is Right for You
No two dog breeds are the same. While some are natural troublemakers and people-friendly, others like to lie down in a quiet corner. So, how do you pick a breed suitable for your lifestyle?
Well, start by factoring in the needs and preferences of your family, especially if there are elderly folks and children involved. Take time to research and understand the temperament of different breeds, and narrow down to a few you like.
Next, you want to speak to pet parents raising similar breeds. They can tell you the trials and tribulations of raising one first-hand.
- Prepare for the Adjustment Period
Brace yourself for some crying and noisy nights if you're adopting a puppy into your home. As dogs adjust to new, unfamiliar surroundings, they tend to cry at night. However, when that happens, don't tuck it in your bed. Instead, prepare a warm and cosy bed for your puppy beforehand. Make sure it is a quiet spot where your puppy feels secure and cannot wander off.
Providing a permanent place can go a long way in helping your furry one adjust to your home. So make sure to pick a comfortable bed and place it in a safe spot before adoption.
- Make Your Home Pet-Friendly
Is your house safe and friendly for your furry friend? Here's how to check.
Firstly, educate yourself about items that can potentially harm your canine. These typically include human medicines, electrical cords, small toys, easily reachable cabinets, certain house plants, etc. You may create a list for future reference.
Then, take a good look around your house. If you spot any of these items, replace or stack them away from the reach of your four-legged one. This way, you can create a safe environment for your puppy to explore freely.
Over to You
As you can see, your furry friend will depend on you for everything. So if you cannot manage the responsibility in any capacity, it's better to wait till you become ready. Only then can you give your pooch the love and care it deserves.
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