Key questions to ask before getting a dog
Dog ownership is a serious commitment as they will play a significant role in your life. There are numerous reasons to welcome a dog into your life—and endless rewards—but it is a two-way relationship. We’re here to help you get it right.
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On this page you will find the following:
A checklist before you go further
The bottom line? Responsible dog ownership means meeting your future dog’s many needs. Caring for your dog involves making sure they are correctly trained and socialised, in their best health and content with life - from the playful puppy phase to the well-rounded adult years.
If you checked ‘yes’ to any of these, then you may be ready to commit to getting a dog, and we are here to help guide you along the way. If you answered ‘no,’ then this is also okay, as even though the circumstances are not right at the moment, an opportunity may come up in the future when you are ready.
2. What to consider before getting a dog
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The benefits of having a dog are endless. However, there are several things to consider before getting a dog:
Bringing a puppy or dog into your life is a significant adjustment. Patience will benefit both you and your canine companion during critical development stages. Make sure you’re getting a dog for the right reasons. It will require hard work, but the rewards are plentiful. |
The benefits of having a dog
Time spent with dogs can lead to increases in oxytocin (hormone for happiness) and lower cortisol levels (stress hormone).
As your dog needs exercise, walking them regularly will make you more active as well.
Most dogs are very affectionate, and their presence can help improve loneliness.
As dogs explore, they will play with other dogs on their walks which will end up with more social interactions with other pet owners.
Time spent with dogs can lead to increases in oxytocin (hormone for happiness) and lower cortisol levels (stress hormone).
As your dog needs exercise, walking them regularly will make you more active as well.
Most dogs are very affectionate, and their presence can help improve loneliness.
As dogs explore, they will play with other dogs on their walks which will end up with more social interactions with other pet owners.
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3. Which type of dog should you get?
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Choosing the right dog is a big decision. If you’re fortunate, your dog will live a long life, so your future dog must fit well with your lifestyle. When selecting a dog, there are many factors to consider:
When deciding on a dog, thorough research is essential. We have an extensive breed library designed to assist you in finding a suitable canine companion.
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4. Where can I get a dog from?
Even if you know what breed you want, as a first-time dog owner, questions still linger. Will you adopt or buy from a breeder? Whichever you choose, responsible dog ownership means acquiring them in a safe and ethical manner.
Always be prepared to ask questions: breeders, animal shelters, and pet shops should be strongly committed to finding the best possible homes for the puppies and dogs in their care.
From an animal shelter
If you decide to rehome an abandoned dog or puppy, your local animal shelter is on hand to guide you. Share as much information as you can, to help them match you to the right dog.
From friends or neighbours
Before taking your furry newest family member home with you, check that they have been properly weaned and that their mother is in good health. Then, schedule a veterinarian appointment as soon as possible, for essential medical tests and vaccinations.
From a breeder
Honest breeders will always prioritise the well-being of puppies and
their parents. Pay them a visit to ensure that they provide safe and
comfortable living conditions. Responsible breeders should provide
medical certificates or health screen tests.
From the pet shop
If you’re buying from a pet shop, be sure to check where they get their puppies from. You should be able to access the proper documentation, such as proof of genetic testing, like with a breeder.
From an animal shelter
If you decide to rehome an abandoned dog or puppy, your local animal shelter is on hand to guide you. Share as much information as you can, to help them match you to the right dog.
From friends or neighbours
Before taking your furry newest family member home with you, check that they have been properly weaned and that their mother is in good health. Then, schedule a veterinarian appointment as soon as possible, for essential medical tests and vaccinations.
From a breeder
Honest breeders will always prioritise the well-being of puppies and
their parents. Pay them a visit to ensure that they provide safe and
comfortable living conditions. Responsible breeders should provide
medical certificates or health screen tests.
From the pet shop
If you’re buying from a pet shop, be sure to check where they get their puppies from. You should be able to access the proper documentation, such as proof of genetic testing, like with a breeder.
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