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Ten helpful tips BEFORE you get a dog

Do you want to get a dog? You want to match your new dog to you and your family and to your overall needs as closely as possible. There are several points to consider whenever you are thinking about getting a dog for you or your family.



Please, never get a dog on impulse. With any luck you're choosing an animal that is likely to be with you for 8 years or more. Select the right dog for you and your family, and you will both enjoy those years you spend together.

I always urge people to look for a rescue group or reputable breeder when choosing a dog and to avoid getting a dog at a pet store. If you don't take the time to plan right now, you will probably regret it in the future. This is one of the main reasons that shelters are so full of unwanted pets today - and one thing that could easily be avoided.

Boxer puppy

Did you know that the dog comes in more than 400 different breed types? There is more variation in dogs than in any other single species. Dogs can come in many shapes, sizes, coat types and personalities. This one decision can be simply overwhelming. The selection of available dog types is simply incredible.

If you still want to get a dog, your job is to find the right dog breed to fit both your personality and lifestyle. So, here is a list of things that you'll want to take into consideration when deciding on whether or not you should get a dog in the first place and then exactly what kind of dog that should be.

Golden retriever


1) What do you want a dog for in the first place? Do you simply want a dog for protection purposes, a companion, a dog to participate in sports activities with, or some other reason? Please research the breeds and what they were originally bred to do carefully. Example: if you want a dog that can be trained to duck hunt with you then a Corgi may not be the right breed for you.

2) Learn all you can about the individual dog breeds. If you get a chance visit local dog shows to see many different dog breeds in one location. Talk to groomers, dog breeders and your veterinarian. They can all offer you more insight into various dog breeds and may better help you decide on a few dog breeds that you may be really interested in.

3) Do you want a pure bred dog or mixed breed? Unfortunately, many animal shelters and dog rescue organizations will have plenty of both. The main difference between purebreds or mixed breed dogs is that with the pure breeds you will have a much better chance of knowing how big he'll be once he reaches adulthood, basic physical and behavioral characteristics he will probably have, etc.

4) What is your activity level? Are you a couch potato or are you really active? Researching dog breeds thoroughly before getting one is essential. Some dog breed types require a lot of daily exercise – both physical and mental. A half hour walk given to a Basset Hound is no where near enough exercise for an Border Collie.

5) Are you an experienced dog owner or will this be your first dog ever? Knowing all you can about the breed and what the breed was originally bred to do (it's original job) is a big step in understanding the dog and what you could possibly expect from it. There are many dog breeds that are not appropriate for a first time owner.

6) Puppy or adult dog? Keep in mind, puppies require a lot more work than adult dogs overall. Remember, these are babies. House training and teething are just a few of the things you'll have to go through with a puppy, but not necessarily an adult dog. Training and learning is a lifetime activity.

7) Can you properly house your new dog? The best place for your new dog is in your home with you. Dogs are very social animals and your new dog should really be part of your family pack - they really do better when they are a real part of the family. You should also have a securely fenced area for your dog to exercise in too. Having your dog chained in the back yard is not proper housing and is also very cruel. Which brings up a new issue.....

Collie puppy

8) How much time can you really devote to your new dog each day? Can you really commit to the dog for it's entire life? What if you have to move? Add another child to your family? If you have children, are you willing to teach the children to peacefully co-exist with the dog? If you can't devote time to raising the dog, then please, do not get a dog.

9) What about dog grooming? All dog breeds need some kind of grooming – even the hairless ones! Some breeds require only a few minutes of brushing once a day while others may require professional grooming. It's important to note that all dogs need regular attention to their teeth, ears and nails. All dogs shed - some dog breeds may shed less than others but this is one fact you must accept.

10) Can you afford to get a dog and to own it throughout it's life? Getting the puppy or dog is just the beginning. Now comes all the other things you'll need to get: vet checks, leashes, collars, extra toys, all sorts of treats, a crate and other necessary supplies, puppy shots every few weeks, training classes, food (the bigger the dog the more food you'll go through), medical emergencies, etc.

I hope all these things have gotten you to thinking that adding a dog to your life is no small thing. Impulse buying an animal can easily lead to trouble. It's your job as a future dog owner to research your life as well as several dog breeds - BEFORE you get a dog for yourself.

Return from get a dog to Terrier Dog Commands

"[Watching a baby being born] is a little like watching a wet St. Bernard coming in through the cat door." - Jeff Foxworthy