Getting a family dog is like getting a new child, but without all the morning sickness, cravings, and labor and is a huge step when making the decision as to when you should get one. There are several things to consider when making this choice:
- Room: indoor or outdoor dog?
- Size: what size is right for us?
- Commitment: long-term, is this doable?
- Type: what breed of dog do we want? What about long hair, short hair, temperament?
- Kids: will my kids help with the responsibility?
If you can address all these points and have a plan for each detail, then it might be time to get a family dog. Planning is the first step to being ready to get a pet, but there are more things to consider when planning if it is the right time for you.
Everyone is on Board
Everyone in the family must be on board with the idea of getting a new pet. You and your partner should discuss the issue before bringing the idea up to children to make sure that you both agree that having a dog is right for you. You must talk about your plan and who will be responsible for all aspects of having a pet. If one person is questioning the idea, then you know that it might not be the right time for your family. If everyone is on board, then you could easily become an amazing dog family.
Type of Dog
When getting a dog, a family must have an idea of what dogs are good for their family. One must look at family-friendly breeds and where the best place to get those breeds. Some of the breeds often recommended for families with small kids are Golden Retrievers, American Boxers, and Snowy Pines White Labradors. All three of these breeds have a kid-friendly theme, easy trainability, and playful nature that give parents peace of mind. If you have a type of dog in mind, then do your research and find dogs that match your type. Make sure to do a meet and greet with other pets and with kids. This will make sure that the dog is ready for what you have to offer.
Getting the Children Ready for A Pet
Now that the adults have done their research and mentally prepared for this big step, they must make sure that the children are ready for meeting and taking care of a dog. Parents need to talk with the kids about the responsibilities associated with owning a pet and what part of the care that the kids will take part in. The kids need to spend time around other animals to ensure that they are not uncomfortable around their family dog when the time comes. The parents may want to read a book about dogs, taking care of dogs, and, of course, include the kids in the meet and greet after the family chooses a dog that they think is right for them. Taking the time to include the children will be a big step to making sure the family has a safe place for all members, human and animal alike.
Financially Stable
If you are at a place where your family can spend a little extra money on fun things, then you might be ready for a dog. Getting a dog can be costly at times, but the joy it can bring is well worth the money. A family must be ready for the vet bills, flea treatments, and boarding when needed for long vacations that the pet cannot attend. Even the initial cost of getting the dog needs to feel like a natural expense to the family. People do not realize the real cost of getting a pet. If your family has discussed this issue then you may be ready to take that step.
Whenever your family decides that getting a dog is the right choice, be ready for a twelve to twenty-year commitment and everything that comes with it. A dog is not just another piece of property but a valued member of a family.
This applies to many pets too.. Cats!