Are you ready for a dog?

Yes? We want to make you aware of what is required before you take the plunge. Over the next few weeks, we’ll cover this subject more in-depth but here are a few things to consider before you jump on board the pooch wagon and commit to having a furry companion. If you’ve never experienced a dog in your life before, then ask yourself these questions? 

Does your lifestyle accommodate having a dog? Things you’ll need to take into consideration include: • Your work routine and the times your dog will be left alone. • Your family’s commitments and how much they’ll be able to help. Dogs need walking and if you can’t do this who can help? • Where you can and can’t take your dog. Days out and holidays must be planned carefully – will you take your dog? • Who will look after your dog when you’re away? What contingency plan do you have? • Realise that owning a dog is for life and like with children you’ll have to go on a journey with your dog. If you’re getting a puppy, you’ll experience the playfulness, then the teenage years (yes, dogs have them!), middle age and then hopefully old age. All these stages require different levels of care and commitment

Which dog?

There are hundreds of breeds of dogs, and they all have different characteristics and traits, so make sure you do your homework into the needs of each breed. Not every home is suitable for every kind of dog. If you buy your dog from a breeder do some research. Some unscrupulous breeders are out there, and you might not buy the dog you expect.

Will my dog need to be trained?

All dogs crave and desire leadership so you will have to display this, or the dog will try to take charge which we guarantee you will regret. You can train a dog yourself, or you can go to structured classes, but you need to display to your dog what is right and what is wrong, and you will need to reinforce this time and time again. This requires time, dedication, and, most of all, patience. If you decide on an older dog who has already been trained, you will still need to familiarise your dog with your rules and boundaries as they will differ slightly from the previous owner.

Have you considered how much a dog will cost?

Yes, again, it’s like having children - the cost will never stop! There’s the initial cost of the dog, especially if you’re buying from a breeder. All dogs now must be microchipped, which costs money. There’s registering your dog with a vet and the bills that must be covered. You’ll need to feed your dog – maybe on specialist foods, which can be expensive. Do you insure your dog? What grooming costs will be incurred?

You’ll also need equipment for your dog, which will include:

• Leads, collars and harnesses.
• Beds, blankets, and mats.
• Crates and car restraints.
• Poop bags and treats.
• Coats and protective clothes.
• Personal care equipment such as tic removers, first aid kit, and shampoo.

Is my home ready?

You will also need to adjust your home. Your house will need to be as safe and as hazard-free as possible. Gardens will need to be enclosed, and you’ll need to keep a constant eye on the maintenance of this. Cars may need crates or grills.

Do you know the law?

The government has set out guidelines for owning a pet and animal welfare, and over 20 pieces of legislation cover owning a dog in Britain. Failure to comply may result in a fine, a court appearance or possibly even imprisonment.

There is so much to consider; it’s a wonder why anyone owns a dog! BUT what you will get is unconditional love every single day. Nobody will be happier to see you come through that front door when you get home. You’ll have someone to talk to who won’t tell you you’re wrong or try to give you unwanted advice. You’ll have an excuse to get out there and exercise once or twice every day.