Having a pet dog is probably one of the best things you can experience in life only if you do it right.
I have written a couple things in the past about the same topic but I have been seeing quite a lot of irresponsible pet ownership recently which prompted me to write yet another one. Not like there's a lot of you will read this anyway, but it's here in case you ever need it.
There are a number of things that you should ask yourself before you go ahead and commit yourself to a pet dog. You should have sure answers to these in order to make a sound decision and not hurt a furry friend in the process if you, in fact, are not ready to have one.
Can you afford it?
I am not asking if your parents, your significant others, your siblings, etc can afford it. As the main owner, can you afford to provide for all of your dogs needs without having to ask for anyone else's assistance? Can you fit an additional pet category in your monthly income? This includes regular vet visits, professional grooming (if you want a very furry pet), proper dog food, treats, toys, etc. Depending on where you live and the breed of your dog, this can get very expensive.
Another telltale sign is: if you have to ask someone else for money to initially acquire or support your dog, it means you cannot afford it.
What breed best fits your lifestyle?
Just like any other human relationships, there are dog breeds that fit a specific human lifestyle. You should be able to assess your own lifestyle or routine. For example, if you are considering very active dogs like golden retrievers, are you able to regularly walk it daily? Provide time for outdoor play?
In contrast, if you're an active person, you will find that "lazy" dog breeds like Chow Chow and Bulldogs will not like having long walks or outdoor activities.
Before you consider any type of dog, make a thorough assessment of how you live your daily life and do really good research on what dog breeds will fit your lifestyle.
Don't just go for the first cute one you see.
Are you able to provide the dog with an appropriate living space?
Dogs are animals but they do not deserve inhumane living conditions. If you cannot provide an appropriate living space for your the dog, please save any dog from misery by not pushing through with this. It is always heartbreaking to see a dog suffer just because of irresponsible ownership.
For example, do not attempt to adopt or acquire high maintenance breeds like Chow Chow or Siberian Husky if you're going to let it live outside in the scorching Philippine weather.
If you are not able to provide a safe space for a dog, then you should not be committing to this at all.
Are you willing to be there through the cuteness and filthiness?
Dogs are cute, but they also not always are. There will be days when they will randomly throw up, have accidents or days where they just love to be filthy. Are you willing to clean up after them?
Would you be able to pick up their dirt and wipe off their accidental pees? Will you be able to clean their living spaces without asking anyone for help?
A quick way to reflect on this is to check how much work you do with the basics like laundry, cleaning a room and your toilet. This will give you a good starter estimate on how much work you're also willing to do for your pet.
Do you have the time and patience to train it?
I know there are others who think training is optional. However, based on personal experience, training is actually an excellent way to form a strong bond with your pet as well as establish an alpha dominance. Training depends on the overall personality of your pet and its breed. Generally, this would take time and a ton of repetition.
Your pet does not really have to know tricks like knowing how to add up numbers or put on a show. You should be able to willingly train your pet the essential obedience tricks like sit, wait and/or down.
Do you have time for it?
Dogs are pack animals. In this case, you are their pack. They will constantly seek for your company. Having a pet is not a 15-minute commitment daily. Don't get a dog only to give a few minutes daily or just to have someone to see when you come home. They are living, breathing animals who only have you and no one else.
They are not plush toys that you give attention to whenever you wish or simply to just "have something to see around."
I hope this will be able to help guide you in the decision making process. It is okay if you're not fit to be a dog owner. That is always much more admirable than forcing yourself into this commitment and having a dog suffer in the process.
If you find that you're ready, prepare yourself for the most fulfilling decision you'll ever make!
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