5 Questions to ask yourself before buying a dog

With Christmas just around the corner, you may be considering buying a dog for someone as a present. Unfortunately, although it is usually a well-meaning gesture, putting that kind of commitment on someone is not always the right gift.

It’s true that there are many benefits to owning a dog – they provide structure, get you outside more often and can even help to improve your mental health. However, there are some important things to consider before you commit. Whether the dog is for you or someone else, it’s much better to do your research beforehand so you can be sure it’s the right decision. Put yourself in their shoes and consider the following questions.

Can I provide a stable long-term home?

Do you own your home? Do you foresee your circumstances changing? It’s important to ensure that you will be able to take your dog with you if you do need to move. If you’re renting, for example, buying a dog may not be a good idea. You could need to move to another property that may not allow pets, causing stress for both you and your dog.

Do I have enough free time?

Getting a puppy is often a lot more time consuming and harder work than new owners expect. You should be prepared to dedicate lots of time to your new puppy, especially in the first six months or so. They will need toilet and behavioural training, plenty of toys and attention so that they are getting enough mental stimulation.

Will someone be home often enough?

Do you work out of the home? Will someone be home for most hours of the day? Dogs are social animals that typically don’t like to be left alone. Especially as puppies – they typically cannot be left alone for more than just a few hours. Not only can they start to destroy personal items and furniture, but if they can’t get outside to go to the toilet, they may end up going on your carpet instead. If you can’t be home during the day, you will need to consider paying a dog walker or putting them into daycare.

Which breed is right for me?

When choosing the best dog for you, don’t be swayed purely by looks. You might think that a husky is adorable when they’re sitting under the Christmas tree, or bouncing through the snow, but do you have the time to give it the exercise that it needs? It’s really important to do your research to ensure you are buying a breed that will be compatible with your lifestyle. Luckily there are lots of helpful tools online – you can even take a quiz to find your top matches. Either way, we would still strongly advise against getting anyone a dog as a gift. You can’t know their circumstances inside and out and which breed would work for them.

Can I afford the expenses?

Do you have enough disposable income to cover all the costs of your new pet? Dog food can be expensive, especially if you opt for a larger breed or your dog requires a special diet. Not only that but you’ll need to think about grooming costs, one-off vet bills and pet insurance. Whilst you might think you know the finances of the person you’re buying for, money can be a deeply personal thing, so it’s best not to assume.

If you didn’t know before, you’ll now know that although dogs are amazing, they’re a huge commitment. They do put limits on your life – forget taking spontaneous trips, unless you’re lucky enough to have someone close by that can watch your dog. If you’re hesitating after reading this, maybe consider a different option. There are plenty of other alternatives that require less time and energy but still provide you with a wonderful companion. Alternatively, if it’s a gift, we would recommend getting something a little less demanding.