Given that dogs offer us unconditional love, it’s natural to desire bringing them into our homes and families. However, owning a dog entails more than just slobbery kisses and wagging tails. It involves a significant commitment. Therefore, before deciding to take the plunge, you ought to ask yourself why you should get a dog or if you should get one at all.
Having the desire to have a pet and actually being prepared to offer the necessary love, care, structure, and habitat required by a dog are not equivalent. This is especially true if you choose to adopt a puppy, rather than an older dog. The structure, obedience lessons, and care that you offer are imperative in promoting their growth into healthy, well-trained animals.
It’s simple to appreciate the benefits of a pet sitter, but can you still value them equally when your pet misbehaves, like destroying your leather sofa or urinating in your shoes?
Before impulsively getting a new dog, it is important to realize that welcoming a dog into your household will result in changes to your lifestyle. Are you willing to make sacrifices to ensure that your new furry family member receives the proper care and attention they require to prosper?
Before deciding to get a dog, there are several factors to take into account.
6 Things to Consider Before Getting a Dog
Acquiring a dog is a thrilling prospect. It’s likely that you’re eagerly anticipating welcoming a new fluffy companion into your home, but don’t permit yourself to be overwhelmed by the adorable charms of a potential new pup.
Acquiring a dog involves a significant obligation, and this responsibility intensifies when it comes to a puppy. This indicates that you will be accountable for the security and welfare of these adorable creatures, thus it is critical to ensure that you can provide them a good quality life before making a commitment. What kind of dog would be suitable for me?
I am certain that individuals who adopt dogs have good intentions, but this may not be sufficient at times. It is crucial to assess whether getting a dog is appropriate for you before making a decision. There are six factors to contemplate when determining if getting a dog is a viable option for you.
1. Breed Matters
Your dog’s breed will give you an indication of the type of activity and routine your dog will need, as well as any potential health or behavioural issues that are common or predisposed in the breed. Some dog breeds are more popular than others , but that doesn’t mean they are the right fit for you.
Failing to carry out proper breed research can result in getting a dog that is incompatible with your lifestyle. If you cannot afford to provide the required hours of exercise that a dog such as a husky needs on a daily basis, then it may not be the right breed for you.
2. One-On-One Time
Spending time with your dog is a must and you must be aware of how much time it actually needs. Although some dogs can tolerate being alone while you are at work, you still have to invest a significant amount of time taking care of, training, and nurturing your dog before and after work.
In case you lead a busy life with an active social circle, enjoy taking frequent vacations, or have a demanding job, a low-maintenance pet such as a fish might be a better option to consider.
Take into account your additional obligations such as parenting young children, your profession, and any other engagements that may restrict your availability and energy when it comes to owning a pet.
3. Suitable Environment
Assess your present living conditions and determine if they are suitable for having a dog. A dog does not necessarily require a big house and a spacious yard, but it does need enough space to engage in play and explore.
Do you reside in an apartment or lack a yard? Is your locality equipped with appropriate parks and walking paths? If not, do you possess dependable means of transportation to transport your dog to a location with more appropriate facilities?
It is important to ensure that the home you can provide is a suitable match for the dog’s needs, as living in a densely populated urban area may not be a good fit for every canine. Dogs that are older or less active may have an easier time acclimating to city life or living in an apartment, whereas younger puppies or high-energy breeds may struggle.
4. Cleanliness is next to Dogliness
If your home resembles a Martha Stewart display, it’s important to consider whether you’re prepared for the potential messes and damages that could occur when owning a dog, as they can cause unintentional accidents and destruction. If the thought of stained carpets or gnawed furniture is stressful, it may be wise to reconsider if now is the right time to bring a dog into your home.
Taking steps to ensure your home is safe from dogs can be beneficial. This may include changing the placement of furniture, disposing of floral arrangements and potted plants, or establishing an area where valuable and cherished items are off-limits to dogs.
5. How Much Does it Cost to Own a Dog?
Pets are widely recognized to have high costs, so before determining if you are prepared to have a canine companion, it is essential to confirm your financial ability. Purchasing dog toys involves frequent one-time expenditures, hence it is necessary to put aside funds for the appropriate equipment and accessories. However, it is also crucial to take into account the recurring expenses associated with regular maintenance.
What is the cost of a dog?
Is $2600 per annum reasonable for the yearly cost of owning a dog in Canada? When we examine it more closely, the monthly cost is approximately $215. Although this may not be an insignificant amount, it could be considered manageable.
6. Puppies Test Your Patience
The most crucial aspect to think about is introducing a dog owner of a particular breed into your household, regardless of whether your dog is a young pup or a mature adult. This can be a daunting task, as it requires considerable time and effort to acclimate your dog to its new living situation.
If you are planning to bring a dog with behavioural problems, you should be ready to undergo extensive training and perform a great deal of clean up work. However, if you have a short fuse or are easily irritated, it may be wise to reconsider your decision.
It’s important to also take into account the patience of others who share your living space. Introducing a dog can impact kids, spouses, mother-in-law, roommates, and other residents. It’s crucial to ensure that everyone involved is comfortable with welcoming a new pet and ready to handle any challenges that may arise.
BONUS: Best Dog Toys, According to the Experts: Our Dogs
For dog lovers, every day can be considered as National Pet Day, but the actual celebration falls on April 11th, providing an additional reason to lavish our adored furry companions with toys and gifts. With abundant options of dog toys, ranging from frisbees, balls, squeakers, puzzles, and food-motivated gadgets, it can be tricky to discover the perfect one for your pet since some toys may not resonate with them or may only sustain them for a short duration before being chewed or destroyed. Therefore, how can one locate the finest dog toys that will ensure endless hours of amusement and engagement?
We conducted a survey of CNET’s dog owners and compiled a list of their dogs’ favorite toys that have proven to be durable. While it may be difficult to find a toy that can withstand relentless play and constant chewing, these toys have managed to survive it all and have provided hours of entertainment for their canine companions. Notably, the highly acclaimed Chuckit received three votes from the survey participants.
A diverse range of dog toys is offered here since all dogs possess distinctive peculiarities and likings. It does not matter if your furry companion is a big or small breed, enjoys chewing or tugging, this list contains the finest dog toys that our canines genuinely adore.
Best dog toys
Outward Hound Dog Tornado Puzzle
When you have a dog that requires frequent attention, you will go to great lengths to occupy them for a short period. This puzzle toy can assist you with that goal. It includes three revolving trays where you may hide treats, forcing your dog to work for their prize.
Wild Knots Bears Durable Dog Toy
The toy is built to last and provides limitless entertainment for dogs. It comes equipped with both a rope and several squeakers to capture and maintain their interest, often becoming the toy of choice for snuggling with my furry friend.
Kong Extreme Dog Toy
There are certain dogs that are highly motivated by food and in the absence of a chew toy, they may resort to nibbling away at our living room rug. Therefore, it is advisable to take out the Kongs when you anticipate being away from home for a few hours.
Fluff and Tuff Ball
While some stuffed animals can easily be torn apart in a matter of minutes, the Fluff and Tuff ball is so durable that it can withstand weeks of play without even showing the slightest sign of wear and tear.
Outward Hound Dog Hide N’ Slide Puzzle
This puzzle toy combines food and entertainment for never-ending enjoyment. It’s perfect for instances when you’re unable to take your dog for their customary lengthy nighttime stroll. Despite its intricate appearance with all its mobile plastic components, it’s quite uncomplicated to assemble. Simply conceal your preferred treats or pet food in the concealed compartments, place the plastic door over it, slide the cover to lock the door, and voila! You’re done.
FAQs
Do dogs really need toys?
Toys are frequently undervalued in their significance in the lives of dogs, yet they are essential for both your dog’s welfare and your own serenity. An exhausted and mentally stimulated dog will indulge in less mischief than an idle one. Toys can aid in ameliorating unacceptable conduct, engaging your dog’s mind, exhausting them physically, and providing a suitable channel for dogs that tend to chew destructively.
What kind of toys do dogs love the most?
To find the appropriate toys for your dog, it is essential to comprehend their distinct personalities and energy levels. Generally, canine toys can be classified into three groups.
- Active toys: Balls and frisbees, as well as ropes and woven toys for tugging, are great for interactive play and getting your dog their much-needed exercise. If your dog is very active, such toys can also be used as training motivators.
- Enrichment toys: These toys keep your dog occupied and mentally stimulated. They can range from puzzles and treat-dispensing toys to a durable, rubber toy that you stuff with treats like the Kong. By working to get at the treats, your dog is trying to “solve a problem,” which stimulates their brain and gives them something to do. These kinds of toys are designed to keep your dog engaged when you’re busy with something else or not able to with them.
- Comfort toys: Did you have a favorite stuffy or doll when you were a child? Dogs aren’t all that different and can get just as much comfort out of carrying around a favorite toy. Anxious dogs in particular might benefit from having a stuffed companion. Just be careful since some dogs are aggressive chewers and shouldn’t be given soft toys. And avoid stuffies with squeakers, which can be easily removed and swallowed.
What are the best dog toys for chewers?
Dogs naturally chew, however, if your dog chews on inappropriate items, it is recommended to provide appropriate alternatives. Cooked bones should be avoided as they can splinter and cause blockages in the dog’s throat or intestines. A suitable alternative would be something easily digested and found in stores, such as Greenies, or better yet, a hard rubber toy like a Nylabone or Kong. It is important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the safest options for your dog.
