‘What’s the right dog for our family?’ With Christmas just around the corner, lots of families will be thinking about getting a dog. Some will even plan for a new dog as a Christmas morning surprise, which can sound exciting but is not always the best choice. It seems like the perfect gift, however, it doesn’t take long for reality to set in: We have to take care of this dog; was this the right dog for us?
There are so many breeds, size and temperaments which many people do not consider. If you are thinking of getting a dog get a notepad and start to write down a list. What does your current daily schedule look like? Will you have time for a dog that may need both mental and physical exercise multiple times a day? Do you want a small or larger dog? Do you want a dog as a walking companion or one that will watch your favorite netflix series with you? Have you considered a budget for food, vet costs, dog walker, daycare and most importantly training for your dog? What if your dog has an unexpected illness, injury? What if you want to go away?
If you are thinking of getting a dog do your research, make it a project for the whole family to participate in so that the dog will be able to fit into your daily life. Be sure that you have the time, money and more importantly the love to give for the dog’s lifetime. Owning a dog is the most rewarding experience filled with unconditional love so be sure to take the time to consider what is the right dog for you and your family.
If you have any questions before, during or after you have chosen, we are here to help whether it be for Dog Daycare, Dog Spa services or Dog Training in Obedience, Agility, Tricks and Pet First Aid.