8 Signs You’re Ready to Get a Dog
Have you always wanted a dog and think you might finally be ready for one? Owning a dog comes with a lot of responsibility. Be ready for your life to change once you take that step. There’s a reason a lot of people compare owning a dog to raising a kid. Before you go out and bring a new fluffy friend into your life, here are a few things you should consider.
You’ve Done Research
One of the most important things to do before owning a dog is research. Talk to others that have dogs, look into which breed suits your lifestyle best, get informed on different diets, and research the latest in dog care. There’s no such thing as being over-prepared!
You’ve Got Time
Dogs will demand a lot of your time between the training, vet trips, and regular walks. Before you get a dog make sure you have the time to spare. If you are able to work from home or have a flexible schedule, then now is a great time to introduce a pup to your family. If you find your work and other life obligations that make your life too busy, maybe now isn’t the best time to get one.
You’ve Got Space
All dogs, no matter their size, will take up space in your home. From their food, bed, crates, and toys, make sure you’ve not only got enough space to store all your pet’s paraphernalia but that you’ve also got enough space for them to move around and play.
You’ve Got Access to Green Space
Dogs love exploring the outdoors so it’s important that you have access to green space before you bring a dog into your life. This can be a challenge for some people in Toronto, especially if they don’t live in a house with a yard. Luckily, the city has tons of parks and green spaces around that are more than suitable. Just make sure you have enough time to regularly take them!
You’ve Puppy Proofed
Whether you opt to get a puppy, an adult dog, or a senior it’s a good idea to dog-proof your house before bringing them home. Most dogs in new environments will explore and get into things you might not want them to. This can be addressed by training, but while that is going on make sure you’ve moved anything they could get into, especially if it could harm them such as toxic plants, electrical cords, and food.
You’re Ready for the Mess
As fluffy and adorable as a dog is, they can also be extremely messy! From picking up poop to cleaning them up in the bath there is a ton of mess to deal with once you have a dog. Not to mention additional fluids like vomit, urine, and drool. Be prepared to have to up your cleaning frequency and that you’re ok with dealing with a little mess. Don’t forget about the hair as well! A lot of dogs shed, so be sure to consider then when researching breeds.
You’ve Got Money to Spend
Owning a dog can be a pricey responsibility. From their dog food to toys and vet bills there are a lot of financial obligations that come with dog ownership. Make sure you have more than enough money to properly take care of a pup. Don’t forget about additional costs that may pop up such as medications, illness, or injury.
You’ve Discussed it With Your Family
A dog is an entire family commitment. Even if one person primarily takes over the role, everyone in the household needs to be on board with bringing a dog into the home. All members of a family will play a role in training and caring for a dog. Dogs are innocent, so bringing them into a hostile home where some may not want them there isn’t fair to them. They’re a big responsibility so everyone should be completely committed beforehand!
Still feeling ready to get a dog after going through this list? Be sure to research all of the benefits of raising your dog on a raw food diet! Just Raw Pet Food is locally sourced within Ontario, and free of additives and preservatives. There are tons of advantages to feeding your new dog a raw diet. Order today and see for yourself!