Are You Ready To Be a Dog Owner?

Whether you choose to bring home a puppy or a senior dog, adopting a canine is a big decision. Dogs require a lot of time and attention, so before you choose to bring one into your family, you need to make sure you are ready for the responsibility. Here are three questions that can help you determine if you and your family are ready for a canine companion.

Why Do You Want a Dog?
There are many dog breeds and each one is bred for a different purpose. Some are laid-back family dogs, while others are bred to act as guard dogs. Knowing why you want a dog will help you choose the right breed so he or she fits into your family. For example, if you are just looking for an easygoing family dog, choosing a rottweiler that is bred to be protective may not be the best choice. Looking for Labrador retriever puppies Robertson County TN may be a better option for you.

How Much Time Can You Commit to a Dog?
Some dogs require more training and exercise than others. If you work a lot and have kids who are involved in numerous extracurricular activities, you may not have enough time to devote to a dog. If you have a lot of free time, you may want to get an active breed, but if you are limited on downtime, consider getting a smaller, calmer breed.

Is Your Family Ready for a Dog?
You probably don’t want to get a puppy if you have a newborn baby or young toddler. A senior dog that is calmer might be a better choice. If you have active teenagers, a puppy may be a better match for your family’s energy level.

Choosing the right dog for your family is a big decision. Not only do you have to find a breed that fits into your family but you also have to make sure your family is ready for such a big responsibility. These three questions can help you determine if you are ready for dog ownership.