Adding a dog or a puppy to a family is an exciting event. However, like most life changes, a change of this type can cause stress. Humans are the only species I know of that regularly adopt members of a different species into their families, packs, flocks, troops, or herds. We do it a lot and with many other species. As a species, we have become very good at taking dogs, cats, and other animals into our homes and intimate spaces, but we will focus on the dogs today. For a new pet dog owner, there are some things we should consider before we adopt our new family member.
The first thing we should seriously consider is time. These days, we live busy, loud lives. Dogs are very social animals. They need our attention and presence to be content, stable members of our families and communities. This time commitment extends for the entire life of the dog. We need time to teach them, play with them, groom them, sit with them, walk them, and take them on adventures.
This time commitment might be significant in some cases. In other cases, it could be considerable at particular times as our relationships with our dogs grow and change. For the average pet dog, an owner should budget at least 2 hours a day for quality time with their dog. This is not just a commitment but an opportunity for joy and fulfillment. When I say quality time here, I mean time to focus on the dog, like we would if competing in a sport. You can not play tennis and eat a sandwich or play football/soccer while watching the news. We must gift them our presence and attention for a good relationship with our dog.
We will also need space for the dog and their things. Puppies and dogs need to run, but you do not need a huge yard to make that happen. With training, a dog can run in any open area that is legal for them to do. Our dogs do not have to be off the leash to enjoy the zoomie feeling of running, but off-leash running should be an option for most dogs. The dog also needs space for their things. Toys do not take up too much space, and most of us buy more toys than our dogs need, but we need space for at least one crate during house training and the manners training period in puppy/dog’s life. My dogs always have access to at least one crate. My dogs do not share crates. They each have their own. I have three dogs of different sizes. That means at least three crates. When my dogs are puppies, I have one crate in my bedroom and one in my kitchen. Dog beds take up space. If you have large dogs, the space can be considerable. I have a dog bed in every room where I spend time. I allow my dogs to share beds, but they must be large enough for all three to be comfortable. In some situations, dogs can not share dog beds and require their own. That can add to the space requirements.
In our society, dogs are expensive. They need medical care, training, grooming, and toys. If they have behavior problems, the cost can include house repairs and/or new furniture. You will have boarding expenses if you take vacations or leave town regularly. If you work long hours, you may need a dog walker. I recommend dog walkers over dog daycares, but some people will send their dogs to daycare. All of that adds to your family’s expenses and could require budgeting. It’s important to be financially prepared for the responsibilities of dog ownership.
Dogs infringe on our freedoms, take up space, demand our attention, and require our money. Living with another species can increase our stress levels. They are not always easy: cuddly, healthy couch potatoes and bed warmers. The last thing we need is a reason to add this responsibility to our already busy lives. I like teaching them things, taking them places, and exposing them to our world. I like to show other dog owners the fantastic potential of these animals and help them build a strong bond with their dogs. Because, The benefits of dog ownership, such as companionship and unconditional love, can far outweigh the challenges.
If you want a pup, this is a great time to get one. Argos Dog Training offers a one-of-a-kind Puppy Kindergarten for puppy owners in and around Boston, and our Puppy Love Online Program is excellent for puppy owners anywhere. Click this LINK if you would like to learn more. As always, Thank You for reading, and Enjoy Your Dog!!!