4 Signs You’re Ready to Adopt a Dog

Adopting a dog is a big decision. There are a few things you need to do to prepare your home and family for the new addition; you cannot simply decide you want a pet and get one the next day. As the saying goes, ‘a dog is for life, not just for Christmas’ so it is a decision you need to carefully mull over before going ahead. Here are some signs you’re ready to adopt a dog.

1 – You Have Done Your Research

The first good sign that you are ready to adopt a dog is that you have already researched the different breeds and found that one will be better suited to you, your home, and your lifestyle. For example, a Dalmatian, along with many other breeds, will need a lot of attention and plenty of exercise. If you work 40+ hours and are frequently away from home, this is not a good option. Also, if you plan to adopt a dog from a home or shelter, you will know that the breed you have in mind is not always the breed you will take home.

Once you know which dogs are available, you also need to have done your research into its exercise and dietary requirements. Have a look at the eight best options for dog food to see which type will fulfill their nutritional needs.

2 – You Can Afford to Keep Them

Although it isn’t necessarily expensive to look after a dog – access to water, food, and toys are the basic requirements – you need to understand that they will have other expenses from time to time. If you have your finances in order and have factored in the cost of pet insurance, inoculations, grooming, and emergency vet appointments, this is a good sign you are ready to adopt a dog. In addition to this, there will also be some upfront costs to make sure they settle in, such as a dog bed, collar, leash, and food and water bowls. If your monthly bills are already stretching your wages to their limit, it is not the right time to get a pet.

3 – You Have Considered the Long-term Possibilities

Getting a pet is an exciting time, and while it can be easy to pick up a small pet like a hamster or rabbit at the pet store and let your kids take care of it, a dog takes much more consideration. They are likely to be a part of the family for the next 10 or 15 years, depending on their age when you adopt them. This means you will need to consider whether you have a stable enough home life to provide them with the love and attention they need for the next decade. If you travel a lot with work, it may not be the right time to get a dog. Similarly, if you or your partner are expecting a baby any time soon, it may be best to wait, as the dog will not receive the attention it needs once the baby arrives.

4 – You Have Considered the Not So Glamorous Side

A dog is a man’s best friend and can bring a lot of joy to your life, but that’s not all you should be focusing on! If you have realized and accepted the fact that there is a not so glamorous side to owning a dog, this is a great sign that you are ready. If you are okay with the fact that you will have to pick up after the dog when it does its business, either in the yard or on walks, you are one step closer to being ready. Also, know that you will need to deal with upset stomachs and even minor injuries.

Can you check off all the factors outlined in this list? If so, you might just be ready to take the next step and welcome a new family member into your home.