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Things to Think About Before Adopting a Dog

With the adoption of a dog, you give a four-legged friend a new future and yourself a friend for life. But the decision to adopt should not be taken lightly. There are a few things to keep in mind before you bring a new member into your home.

The Most Important Requirements

First of all, it is important to clarify the basics of dog ownership. No person living in the household should have a dog hair allergy. In addition, if you do not live in your own apartment or house, you need the consent of your landlord to keep a dog. If this is not the case, the landlord can terminate the apartment for you and your four-legged friend after a warning. If you live in the attic, which can only be reached by many stairs, do not let a large dog move in. Because in the long run, the many levels are not good for the joints. Dogs are pack animals. An adult dog should not have to be alone for more than four hours a day. If you have a large property or a farm that your four-legged friend should guard, this is possible. Nevertheless, the dog needs a family connection. In this case, it is helpful if the dogs live in pairs.

Do Not Underestimate the Time Required

A dog costs time – a lot of time. Not just a puppy will keep you busy. You should consider beforehand how much time you can devote to the dog every day. If you have children who can assure you that they walk your four-legged friend every day: don’t rely on them. When in doubt, you as an adult are always responsible. An adult dog should be outside for at least two hours a day. In addition, you should keep it busy by doing appropriate mental work. For some dogs, grooming is an additional factor, which can be time-consuming. Depending on the breed, age and size, there is scope for the time required: Senior dogs often need less exercise, a pug is more comfortable than a border collie. Pick a dog that suits your living conditions. This can include the realization that it is better to (for the time being) do without a four-legged friend.

Costs of Owning a Dog

The purchase price and the basic equipment are one-time expenses. But the constant costs associated with keeping a dog really go into the money. This includes food, at least annual veterinary appointments, possibly holiday care, dog tax, and dog liability insurance. For some breeds, visits to the dog groomer are added. Those who attend a dog school with their animal companion also pay more. If you are short of money, you should first get an overview of the monthly costs. It also makes sense to have a buffer for unplanned veterinary bills. Alternatively, find out about health insurance for your dog.

Your Life Will Change!

Many would like to have a dog by their side, who strolls comfortably in the park with them on a beautiful Sunday afternoon.

But a dog is not an accessory, it makes many demands.

Your apartment will get dirty faster because your dog not only loses fur but also brings in a lot of dirt from outside. When sleeping in, spontaneous trips and with many little things in everyday life, the dog should be considered as a family member. You should be ready to take on possible challenges: Your four-legged friend may have a tendency to chase or bark. Maybe he needs longer with the house training. Realize that a dog means a lot of work and sometimes a nuisance or two.

Puppy or Adult Dog?

A puppy may sleep a lot – but in between, it will keep you busy. Think carefully about whether you can and want to devote the time and energy to a puppy and its upbringing. It takes a puppy a few weeks to house-train, has a tendency to put everything it can find in its mouth, and needs many short walks a day. Not everyone sleeps through it right away. You have to teach a puppy basic commands first.

In many cases, an older dog is more relaxed. If he comes from a good posture, he has already learned to be alone, easy leash, driving, and the basic commands. However, if he has had a poor experience, it can be particularly difficult to teach an older dog something. Include these considerations in your decision.

Origin of the Dog

Regardless of whether you choose a mixed breed or purebred dog – make sure that your four-legged friend is of animal-friendly origin.

This also means that you will only buy a pedigree dog if it has papers from a reputable dog breeding association. Do not fall for sentences like “We only breed as a hobby”: Serious hobby breeders are affiliated with an association. Never buy a dog out of pity. If you suspect that the keeping conditions are poor, report this to the veterinary office. An animal welfare dog gives a four-legged friend the chance of new happiness. Try to find out as much as possible about the particular dog. If he lives in an animal shelter, take him for a walk a few times so that you can sniff each other in peace. In this way, you can better assess whether the dog is a good match for you.

No Extreme Breeding

If you’re looking to move a puppy in, don’t buy a dog that has extreme traits that affect their quality of life. These include flat-faced pugs that can barely breathe. Or particularly large mastiffs, which are predestined for joint problems. Or teacup Chihuahuas, which are so tiny that they can barely climb a curb. Pick a breeder who values health more than extreme traits.

The First Impression

If you have chosen a four-legged friend with a bad past, for example, a street dog from abroad, the dog may have behavioral problems. But with all other dogs, make sure that the four-legged friend is not too afraid and makes a well-groomed impression. The dog does not flinch from you – he is welcome to be reserved if it is just getting to know you.

Alice White

Written by Alice White

Alice White, a devoted pet lover and writer, has turned her boundless affection for animals into a fulfilling career. Originally dreaming of wildlife, her limited scientific background led her to specialize in animal literature. Now she happily spends her days researching and writing about various creatures, living her dream.

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