As much as you might want to take home every puppy you see, there are several factors to consider before committing to puppy ownership. Making a dog part of your family for the life of that dog is a tremendous responsibility that should not be taken lightly. When you adopt a dog, you’re not only receiving unconditional love and snuggles, but you’re also promising that precious creature  she’ll be well cared for, that she’ll never wind up on the streets, in a shelter, or with people who are unable to care for her. If you’re thinking of adding a dog to your family, first ask yourself these four questions:

• Are You Able to Afford A Dog?

Consider the financial expenditures of dog ownership, such as vet bills, food, and a pet deposit on your lease, as well as professional training and a dog walker, if applicable. Find out the usual prices of standard treatment, such as vaccinations, check-ups, heartworm medication, and spaying or neutering, from sites such as Orivet. Consider emergencies as well: do you have a financial buffer that would allow you to cover unforeseen veterinary costs? Puppies become sick, and accidents happen for reasons you can’t anticipate. You don’t want to find yourself in a situation where you have to pick between your dog’s care and paying your rent.

• Is Having a Pet Permitted Under Your Lease?

First and foremost, is having an animal permitted by your lease? If this is not the case, speak with your landlord about renegotiating your lease. If they refuse to compromise on the pet problem, either put off acquiring a pet or relocate to a location that does. This is a critical issue. Some individuals believe they can smuggle a pet into their apartments, and their landlords won’t notice, but they will!  If your landlord notices and evicts you, not only you but also your dog will be homeless.

• Do You Take Your Dog on Too Many Trips?

Having a dog is lovely, but it means you can’t just pack up and leave town at any time. If you travel regularly, consider how you’ll care for your dog while you’re away. Is there anyone in your family who can puppy-sit for you? Is there a reputable boarding facility near you that you can afford? What about a professional pet sitter?

Try bringing your pet along on your trip. Small dogs are allowed to fly in-cabin with you for a charge. Larger dogs may have to fly under the cabin and that is definitely not a great situation, cabin pressure and climate isn’t well controlled, the noise is intolerable for many pets and it can be downright scary.

• Are you allergic to something?

If you’re allergic to dogs, it may actually be their dander. There is not a completely 100% “hypoallergenic” dog, yet some breeds are less likely to cause allergies to flare and also, there are things you can do to keep yourself more comfortable.  Vacuum regularly, bathe the dog frequently (but not so much that you dry out her skin) and talk to your doctor if there are medications that can help you as well.  Spend some time with the breed or mix of dogs you’re considering and see how things turn out. 

Do your research to make sure you are buying from only a reputable breeder, or better yet…adopt from a shelter.  Learning about breeds from sites such as Orivet can boost the chances of you bringing home a healthy, happy, and well-socialized puppy.