Things to think about...
Owning a dog is great fun, and it is also a big responsibility to commit to exercise, socialisation, grooming, daily feeding, cleaning waste and health maintenance. Are you and your family aware of your responsibilities?
Have you selected a dog that is going to be suitable to your lifestyle and home environment?
- Do any family members have allergies?
- Are all family members ready for a new puppy?
- Do any family members have a fear of dogs?
- Are you prepared to include your new puppy into your everyday life and for it to be considered a family member?
- Do have a fence yard or a safe area for the puppy to play?
- Are you prepared for toilet training?
- Have you considered where your puppy will sleep?
- Do you have time to adequately exercise your dog?
- How much quality time can you give them?
- Is the puppy going to be left extended hours on their own?
- Are you willing to brush your dog 3 times a week?
- Who will take care of the dog including grooming and health maintenance?
- Will you take your puppy to "puppy pre school/ socialisation classes" and commit to training?
- Have you considered the cost involved in owning a dog?
When you shouldn't buy a puppy.....
Don’t buy a puppy if you and your family are not 100% committed to owing a dog.
As parents, we understand that children often spend a lot of time pestering us for new pets.
Please, don’t consider buying a puppy unless it’s going to be a family pet,
as everyone in your home will play a part in raising and caring for your new puppy.
It’s heartbreaking, hearing stories of dogs that are not wanted because their families no longer have time for them.