| Time commitment: | | | | changes that must be considered in order to |
| Puppies are cute, cuddly and wonderful, but are | | | | make this important decision. |
| you ready to commit 15-20 years to your dog? | | | | Now that you've decided that you're ready for a |
| Giving him food, shelter, water, exercise, vet | | | | tail wagging good time with your new pup. You |
| care, grooming, and protection? | | | | need to decide on a dog. There are thousands of |
| Monetary Commitment: | | | | AKC registered dog breeds, each with unique |
| You will need some basic supply items. Nothing | | | | personality and character traits that should be |
| over the top costly, but each item adds up: | | | | considered. Check the American Kennel Club |
| -Food and water bowls | | | | website: for details and information on all the |
| -Toys for teething, so they stay away from the | | | | registered dog breeds. Once you decide on a |
| leg of your sofa. | | | | breed that is right for you, it is important to be |
| -Collar and Leash | | | | sure you are working with an ethical breeder who |
| -Crate for training | | | | truly loves the breed and isn't trying to make a |
| -Puppy food and treats for training | | | | quick buck. |
| Vet bills can be pricey, and if you ever have to | | | | But what if you aren't particular about a breed? |
| treat your dog for an emergency it can get very | | | | There are more that enough dog rescues to |
| expensive. There are companies who provide pet | | | | choose from. Just search for a local Humane |
| insurance, but most of them don't cover any | | | | Society agency: and they will help you find an |
| major expenses. And within the first few days of | | | | amazing dog that fits your life. |
| having your little bundle of joy, you will need to | | | | Now that you have your new dog, have you |
| take him to the vet, just to make sure that he is | | | | puppy proofed your house? Make sure nothing |
| healthy and happy and to set up regular | | | | that they would want to chew on is within reach |
| vaccinations. | | | | including electrical cords and blind cords. Make sure |
| Lifestyle commitment: | | | | that your crystal vase family heirloom is well out |
| Happy Hour after work? A weekend ski trip? | | | | of tail wagging radius. Cleaning solutions and other |
| Having a dog will affect the answer to these | | | | toxic items must also be kept well out of reach |
| questions. Do you have someone to feed and | | | | from your curious puppy. |
| walk the dog while you enjoy a drink after work | | | | Make sure to always spay and neuter your dogs, |
| since the dog's been locked up all day? Do you | | | | and microchip for identification purposes in case |
| have a dog sitter or someone who can stop by | | | | Fido ever wanders off and most of all be sure to |
| the house to feed and water the dog while you | | | | cherish the moments and enjoy the experience |
| are away skiing the slopes of your favorite | | | | of living with a dog. |
| mountain? Having a dog requires some lifestyle | | | | |