8 tips for your new family dog purchase.
Are you thinking of getting a new dog for your family? Getting a dog for your family for the first time is fun and quite challenging at the same time. You have to consider that having a dog as a family pet is a long-term commitment that requires proper planning. Besides, purchasing a dog should not be an impetuous choice.
You have to acquire an in-depth knowledge of the implications of buying and having a dog for your family. Here are a few tips that you need to consider before purchasing a new family dog:
Do your research
Before purchasing a new dog for the family, you need to have in your mind the type of dog you. Do you need a puppy or an older dog? Besides, you also need to consider the kind of breed you need. Puppies are always easier to acquire compared to older dogs. However, they need a lot of attention and cost much to maintain compared to older dogs.
Therefore, your choice should entirely depend on your budget. Additionally, you need to purchase a breed that is suitable for both your surroundings and lifestyle. Attend various dog show events to have a glimpse of the different breed best for your family.
Consider the cost of acquiring the dog
The cost of a dog largely depends on its breed. While some are quite expensive to acquire, others are cost-friendly. Hence, you need to consider your financial capabilities before purchasing any breed for your family. Besides, the maintenance costs also depend on the type of dog you have purchased. Others require little maintenance, while others like puppies require high maintenance and attention.
Consider child-friendly dogs
If you have children, seeing your children having a fantastic moment with your family dog is amazing. Inquire whether the dog you are about to purchase would quickly get along with your children. If need be, visit dog shows with your children to get along with the dog you intend to buy.
Healthcare needs of the dog
Nothing could be necessary as the healthcare needs of your new family pet. Be sure to know if the dog requires special health care needs. Besides, after acquiring the dog, be sure that the nearby vet would be able to offer the special treatment the dog requires. Moreover, you need to inquire about the vaccinations the dog receives to ensure that you keep track of them.
Exercise needs of the dog
Dogs need a lot of daily exercises. The regular exercises revolve around taking your dog for a walk or playing games such as dog pulling harness around your neighborhood. Just like humans, dogs have their preferred type of exercise. Before purchasing the dog, ensure you have the right environment that will meet its exercise demands. Besides, ensure that your family members will have time to help take the dog through the daily exercises.
The dog’s level of training
Generally, dogs require a lot of training, especially puppies. Therefore, before purchasing a new dog for your family, ensure that the dog is well trained. This will ensure that you spend little time having to train the new dog.
The dog should, in most cases, be able to go to the toilet by itself. Moreover, dogs with poor habits are likely to mess your home, a character that might not go well with some of your family members.
Gender
When planning to purchase a new dog for your family, you also need to consider the dog’s gender. What gender is your family comfortable with? This can also depend on the gender of your current dog. In case you currently have a male family dog, you should opt for a female one for your new family dog.
Can your family commit?
Owning a dog as a pet requires commitment from your family. Dogs generally have a life span of close to 15 years. Therefore, you should be certain that your family will be able to commit to the dog’s ownership and care. If you have a family with various commitments, you should consider purchasing older dogs that require little attention.
No matter the breed, age, and gender of the dog that you consider purchasing, you should ensure that your entire family agrees. Owning a dog would inevitably cost you money and time. However, with the right choice, it will surely be worth it.