Are you thinking of owning a dog, yet wondering if it is the right decision? Does the sight of a puppy melt your heart away and you feel like bringing all this cuteness home? Here is all that you need to know before getting a dog.
In India, more and more families are opting to keep a dog. Keeping a dog comes with loads of benefits. But getting a dog or any pet should not be an impulsive decision. Do not get a puppy on your whims or just because your child finds or demands this irresistible ‘stuffed toy’. Have you considered what will it take to maintain it? Many people adopt these bundles of joy only to realize later that they did not do their homework well. If you do not want to be among them and surrender your puppy to a shelter home tomorrow, then please read on.
Following are the points you must consider before making the decision of getting a pet dog.
1. Can be costly
Considering costs before making the decision is important.
- Cost of the puppy: It can range from INR 5000 to 100000 depending on the breed and reputation of the breeder – both are important considerations. You may also think of adoption as an option.
- Vaccinations: vaccine costs can range from INR 2000 to 3000 a year. This rate depends on your city and your vet charges.
- Maintenance costs: This recurring expenditure is often underestimated. Dog food, dental care, vet appointments, treats, toys, etc may cost you anywhere between INR 1000 to 2000 every month.
- Spaying or neutering: This is usually considered a part of responsible pet parenting. You may incur a one-time expense of few thousand based on your vet’s setup.
- Training demands time: Once you have calculated all the cost options, the next thing is the time you give to train your furry buddy. It is advisable that when you have a puppy it’s better to start training early. Remember, ‘a well-trained dog is a happy dog’. However, training a new pup takes a lot of time, patience, and energy. There are breeds that are easily trainable while some breeds can take a lot of time and effort.
2. Expect a mess
When you bring a puppy home, be prepared to find your home in a mess. Initially, your pup will not be house-trained and will poop and pee everywhere. They are extremely chewy, so expect collateral damage to your furniture, shoes, cushions, etc. Also, when you are training you will have to decide whether your dog is allowed on beds or sofas. You may want to enforce restrictions on certain rooms such as the kitchen. There may be dog hair everywhere. If you are a neat freak and cannot tolerate a home that is ‘less than perfect, then you may want to reconsider.
3. Exercise your dog regularly
It is said a ‘well-exercised dog is a well-behaved dog’. If you are a fitness enthusiast then it’s a bonus as you may choose a breed requiring more exercise who can be your jogging partner. If you are constrained with time and space then choose a breed with lesser exercise requirements.
4. Risk to elderly
Bigger dog breeds may accidentally knock people down and elderly people are at risk of fracture. If your old parents are staying with you then it’s best to avoid large breeds.
5. Mobility will be affected
Have you considered where will you keep your dog when you go out for a family vacation? See if you have someone to watch over your dog during your absence or if you have any dog crèche around your place.
I am definitely an avid dog lover. So for me, everything looks like it’s worth the effort. But I may be biased. Consider these points when you are making the decision. This is what you need to know before getting a dog. If you have considered all these and are still up for it, then welcome to the world of dogs.
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