5 Ways to Tell if You’re Ready for Dog Ownership

A common question that people ask themselves is, “Should I get a dog?” Becoming a dog parent is a huge responsibility. Pets can be an important part of any family, but knowing the right time to bring an animal into your home can be difficult. There are many factors that need to be taken into account when wanting to bring a dog into your home. 

Here are 5 ways to tell if you’re ready for dog ownership:

You’ve Done Your Research

Before becoming a dog owner, it is important to do your research. For example, talking to friends and family who rescued or adopted a dog is a great start to get some inside knowledge about what it is like having an animal in your home. Another excellent way to get yourself educated is by reading information about dog care. There is no such thing as being over-prepared, so make sure you have the proper information in order to make an educated and thorough decision.

You’ve Got Time

If you have a crazy busy schedule with barely any free time to yourself, the answer to “Should I get a dog” is most likely no. Dogs require a lot of undivided attention, especially at a young age. This can include training sessions, vet visits, and regular or daily walks. Dogs don’t work around your routine, if you want to adopt a dog you must rearrange your schedule.

Ready to Get Up Early and Often

Maybe you do have some spare time on your hands, but are you ready to wake up early in the mornings? Puppies will keep you up in the early hours of the morning because they will need to be let out to use the bathroom. Since they are not fully house trained, expect to be woken up from your slubber more often than not.

Have the Talk With Yourself

A sign that a person is ready to own a dog is if they are willing to juggle various factors in their life in order to make it happen. When having the talk with yourself, you have to be honest and realistic. Ask yourself if you have the time, money, space, and overall commitment to bring a furry friend into your home. Becoming a dog parent is a big responsibility so making sure you are 100% ready and committed to the journey ahead is very important.

Have Money to Spend

Dogs can be very expensive. You now have to consider buying supplies for someone other than yourself. Throughout a dog’s life they will need food, dog toys, have vet bills, unexpected medical costs, and other expenses that are necessary to provide a happy and long life. Be prepared for these expenses before making the decision to become a dog owner.