Before considering getting a dog, determine as a family who will care for the pup. Do you have the time to dedicate to this new family member? If so, start creating a way to share the responsibilities for caring for your new pet among members of the family. Puppies and dogs require a lot of attention–walking, grooming, and cleaning up after accidents are just a few of the many responsibilities that are in store.
You will also need to think about keeping an eye on your young children when they’re around your new pet dog . Kids often squeeze and hug pets harder than normal to express affection, but this can possibly cause fear or even hurt the puppy. It will take training of both your child and dog, as well as adult supervision in the beginning in order to create a safe environment for both the puppy and your child.
You must also consider your living situation. Do you have enough space to allow your dog to be a dog? Educate yourself about the specific breed of your dog either by reaching out to dog breeders or by researching reliable sources on the internet. Get a good idea of the needs of your specific dog breed as far as space requirements and the optimal living environment, such as indoors versus outdoor.
Most importantly, you should know that pets will need you to spend quality time with them. They will require training, patience, and routine. It’s also a good idea to purchase dog health insurance, as veterinarian bills can be very costly.
You shouldn’t ignore your child’s request for a pet companion, as there are many good things that can come from owning a puppy. But don’t forget that dogs and puppies are not accessories. They are living mammals just like us, and if you decide to own a dog, make sure your decision is not based only on your child’s request for a puppy. Understand that this is a long term commitment and responsibility.
~ Courtesy of dogculture.net