Choosing a dog to share your life is a very important decision and should not be made lightly.
You must educate yourself on all aspects of owning one.
Dogs are a lot of work.
You must look at your own circumstances regarding finances, where you live and how much time can you give to a dog.
You must find a dog that suits your lifestyle.
Here are some crucial questions you should ask yourself before choosing a dog.
You must answer these questions honestly.
If you make a wrong decision, the dog may suffer.
Why do you want to own a dog? You might want a dog as a family pet, the children are putting pressure on you for a puppy, as a companion, as a fashion statement, for protection, sports such as hunting or obedience trials or to replace a pet which passed away.
Can you afford the expense involved in owning a dog? First you will have to spend money making your home and garden safe and escape proof before you even bring your dog home.
Maybe you will get your dog for free but you will have to buy food and a food and water bowl, collar and leash, grooming kit and toys and treats to keep him occupied.
There will be veterinarian costs and pet insurance.
He will need a crate or doghouse to sleep in.
You might have to pay someone to look after him while you are away on holidays or working.
Where do you live and do you have the space for a dog? You have to choose the right breed for where you live.
A large dog will need plenty of space to move around and not feel cramped.
Some rented accommodations have very strict rules on pets.
A lot of dogs can live quite happily in a city but some need a more rural environment to run and exercise.
If you are really house proud or obsessed with your garden then getting a dog might not be a good idea.
All dogs make a certain amount of mess from hairs on the furniture to muddy paws, slobbering or digging lots of holes in your garden.
A Dog needs space to move around freely and it is cruel to confine him in a tiny area.
Have you a lot of work commitments that demand your time at the office or being away from home? Dogs are very social animals and love interaction, especially with their owner.
You must spend time with your dog or he will start to develop behaviour problems from being left alone too long.
If you cannot take him out for a walk during the day then perhaps family or friends could do it for you.
There is dog day care or dog sitters but they will cost money.
A dog is a full time commitment and must be exercised every day.
Do you want a puppy or adult dog, big or small, male or female? A puppy is very time consuming as he needs lots of attention in those early months.
He will need to play and relieve himself a lot.
It is easy to bond with a puppy.
An adult dog might be house trained already but not always.
It will take longer for an adult dog to bond with you and settle in.
A young adolescent dog will have lots of energy, needing lots of vigorous exercise.
A small dog takes up less space and eats less so it is cheaper to keep than a big dog.
A big dog can scare or knock over small children or elderly people just playing with them.
A big dog needs lots of space.
A male dog will tend to wander a lot looking for a mate so you will have to fence your garden very securely.
It is a good idea to neuter a male dog for this reason and for some health reasons.
A female will come into season twice a year and draw the attention of the male dogs in your area.
You should get her spayed and it will also cure the problem of unwanted puppies.
Where do you intend to get your dog? A rescue centre or dog shelter is a great place to get a dog.
Sometimes there is a small charge to help cover vaccination costs.
There are usually lots of dogs to choose from and the staff will help you pick a dog that is best suited to your lifestyle and personality.
You could check with your local dog kennel club for information and a list of reputable breeders.
Make sure you ask the breeder lots of questions about a puppy you are intending to buy and ask about its parents and if you can see them.
Do not buy from a puppy-mill as these animals are bred in very poor conditions and due to neglect they can have physical or mental problems.
There are lots of other questions you should ask yourself before choosing a dog.
Think hard about why you want one and can you give him the life he deserves.
Do you honestly have the time to give to a dog and his daily needs?.
Is it just a passing thought and you just want a dog like your favourite celebrity?.
Take plenty of time and do not rush this important decision.
A dog is a wonderful, loving and fun animal to own.
He/she can bring years of happiness and joy.
However, a dog is not necessarily the right pet for everyone.