Top 5 Questions to Ask Before Adopting a Dog

There are many factors that should be considered before adopting a puppy or dog, especially when children are involved. To set your family up for success, here are the top 5 questions to ask before adopting a dog:

1. Do I have time for a dog? 

   Figure out the time required for all the responsibilities of caring for a new pup. Time to train, time to walk, time to provide the attention and supervision necessary to start your new family member off successfully. If you spend 8 or more hours away from home, are getting ready to start a new job, receive a promotion, planning to travel or some other upcoming change to your schedule, now is not the best time to adopt a puppy or dog. An additional point to consider is if you are planning to have more children. Managing dogs and very young children can be especially stressful if you will be the main caregiver.

2. Can I afford a dog? 

   There are many financial considerations when adopting a pup, including veterinary expenses, routine exams, spay/neuter surgeries, professional dog training classes, monthly heartworm/flea/tick prevention, nutritious foods and treats, grooming supplies, and cost of boarding and care while you are away. According to the BCSPCA, the annual costs of care for a dog is at least $1370.00. Make sure you sit down and budget for all the pet related expenses before bringing your pup home. 

3. Can I have a dog where I live?

   Do you own or rent? Does your building have pet related by-laws or weight or size restrictions? Will your landlord give you permission to have a dog? Does your home already have a fenced yard or will you need to fence it? Do you have an HOA that limits ownership of different breeds of dogs in your development? These are all things to that need to be investigated beforehand. 

4. Is everyone in the family on the same page about getting a dog?

   You will be adopting a new family member, not a gift to one individual. Make it clear that everyone in the family will need to participate in the dog’s training and care. At the same time, the adults will need to be prepared to assume the responsibilities of other family members when their schedules change.
   

5. What time of the year is it? 

   This is something that many people often don’t consider. Think about having to make many trips outside during house training periods. Would you rather do this during the warmer months or when there is a foot of snow? For many people, the holidays are a popular time to a adopt, but the holidays are stressful and busy for most families. The better time is when your family has the fewest events, commitments, and responsibilities, so that time and energy can be dedicated to your new family member. 

Once you have discussed these issues as a family, you’re ready to move on and start thinking about how to find the right dog for your family.