When people consider the thought of getting a dog, they are very often swayed by their emotions. They have a vision of a cute ball of fluff that will cheer up their home and their free moments.

Whilst it is true that owning a dog does give rich rewards, they do not come without work. Before you make the decision to go out and acquire a dog, it is important to consider all of the work that will be involved. It is important that you realize that the aim is not to simply have a dog that you can have fun with, but to also be a responsible dog owner. Place all emotional decisions to the side, and concentrate on what being a responsible dog owner involves.

The next thing that must be considered is your financial status. Even though you may think that this sounds ridiculous, dog food, vet bills, and all other expenses need to be taken into consideration.

Listed below are some questions that should be answered with “yes” in order to make you a responsible dog owner:

  1. Do you have a sufficient income?
  2. Are you in a stable job?
  3. If an illness or emergency were to occur, could you afford vet bills of several thousands of dollars?
  4. Can you afford to pay between $50 and $100 per month for dog food, flea treatment, regular medical care and maintenance such as cleaning, nail clipping etc?
  5. If your property is rented, does your landlord allow pets?

Not only are the finances of owning a dog something that a responsible dog owner needs to take into consideration, but the dog?s living situation also needs to be considered. For example, if you are a person that is not at home very often, or you frequently travel, or have plans to make changes to your life soon, then you will need to evaluate this and the type of dog that you might acquire. If you are a person with physical limitations, then it would not be advisable to get a high energy dog, as you will be doing yourself and the dog a disservice. This of course, may result in the destruction of your home and possessions.

The same goes for dogs that require a great deal of human companionship; if you are not there to provide them with that companionship, then the emotional well being of your dog will be at stake. If you are planning on moving in the near future, then you need to be sure that a dog will adjust to those changes. When you have major changes on the horizon such as having children or relocating, then it is better to wait until these changes have occurred before you acquire a dog.

Once you have made the decision and become the proud parent of a new dog, there are several ways in which you should continue to be a responsible dog owner. First of all, enroll the dog in behavior training classes. Your home life as well as your happiness and that of the dog will be greatly improved when your dog is properly trained. Secondly, ensure that your dog has regular visits to the vet for routine checks and recommended vaccinations in order to maintain his health. Thirdly, spay or neuter your dog. It is animal overpopulation that results in millions of animal deaths every year. And lastly, but certainly not least, have your dog microchipped so that your dog can be returned to you if he were to escape.

Ensure that your home and garden are safe and secure ensuring that your garden fences are in good repair. Be respectful of neighbors who may not enjoy a dog’s constant barking, and observe leash laws. Ensure that your dog is active, busy, and well trained so that you are a good neighbor to others.

A great deal of responsibility is required when owning a dog. Never make a decision to own a dog on impulse. You must remember that, in some cases, you may be taking care of a dog for 15 to 20 years.

Source: Puppywhiz