Are You a Suitable Dog Owner?

There are a couple of things to consider…

The debate of whether or not to get a pet has come across sometime in your life, whether it is between your parents, your flatmates, or just yourself. The image of owning a cute, clever, and obedient animal is a dream many may have. However, thinking you can take care of a dog and care for one is quite different. Dogs may need more care and requirements than you would think. This is why it is essential to inform yourself of some conditions that should be considered and satisfied before purchasing or adopting one. Disclaimer: This is not an article by a professional. It is not recommended to read only this to decide whether or not you are suitable for purchasing or adopting a puppy. You should still conduct more research or ask your local pet store whether you are ideal as a dog owner.

Photo by Bharathi Kannan on Unsplash

1. Do I have enough space to care for a dog?

The size of your house is essential and should be considered since it will become the dogs too. They are active creatures and need space to move around. “The Animal Welfare Act” states that pets need space to at least move around, sit, lie down, and stand with no difficulty. Just like you, they should have room to eat and sleep comfortably. If you consider keeping them in the backyard, it is also essential to have enough space outside. “Fun In The Yard” recommends about 230 square meters of room. (1) This does, however, depend on the size of the puppy, its activeness, and how many you are thinking of getting.

2. Will I have enough time to care for my dog?

It is essential to ensure you have enough time with your puppy. Unlike other pets, cats or fish might not need as much time as dogs as they may be more independent. But dogs are highly dependent on their owners since humans are the only ones they depend on to feed, interact, and keep them company. They rely more on us than their kind for devotion and protection. This is why you must ensure to leave out the time to play with them, walk them and interact with them. It is recommended to spend at least two to three hours with them each day. They may become bored or depressed if they are left alone for too long.

3. Do I have the finance to care for a dog?