Man’s best friend comes with many responsibilities. Let’s consider some important factors when adopting a dog to ensure you’re ready for the commitment.
Consider Your Finances
Before you get a dog, you should think about your finances. While adoption fees are cheaper than what you’d pay at a pet store, there are other costs you need to budget for, including:
- Food
- Toys
- Grooming
- Possible pet rent
- Vet bills
While rescues do what they can to ensure a pup is healthy, you should always try to set aside money for vet bills. There is a possibility that unexpected health issues can crop up down the road, and paying for them is key to providing your dog with a forever home. Pet insurance or Care Credit can help with those costs.
Research Dog Breeds
One important factor to consider when adopting a dog is researching different breeds. A great resource to accomplish this is the AKC’s website. You can also take quizzes on adoption websites, such as Petfinder, to see which breeds work best with your family.
While all dogs are unique, you can get a general idea of their personality by determining breed standards. Many can fall in love with an adorable pup only to find they aren’t compatible.
For example, an Australian Shepherd who needs exercise and activity to feel fulfilled probably wouldn’t be the best choice if you’re someone who leads a sedentary life in a small apartment. Without proper stimulation, dogs with high energy levels can become destructive.
Choose a Shelter
Once you’ve figured out your finances and which breed is compatible with your family, you’re ready to pick a shelter. As we mentioned, acquiring a dog this way saves money and allows for more to be saved. It’s best to avoid pet stores because they are expensive and often use puppy mills.
Try starting with a website like Petfinder, which allows you to search by breed and zip code. You can also search for a specific type of dog rescue if you have your heart set on a purebred. While some pups in shelters may come with behavioral issues, you can work with adoption counselors to find the perfect fit for you.
Pet-Proofing Your Home
We love our dogs, but they can leave behind hair and messes. Learning about home maintenance tips for pet owners can keep this damage to a minimum.
Crate training lines up with pet-proofing. While you may want to snuggle up with your dog, it’s good for them to have their own space. This will make it easier when you can’t take them with you, such as while running errands. A dog who doesn’t mind their crate can sleep in there, and your home can stay safe from damage.
Pet ownership comes with many responsibilities. Try your best to prepare for care costs by setting some money aside. Take the time to research what kind of dog is most compatible with your lifestyle so you don’t make a rash decision based on how cute they are.
It’s best practice to adopt dogs from shelters. Pet-proofing your home also goes a long way to keep all family members happy. We wish you the best in finding your new four-legged friend!
