Are You Right for a Dog?

If you have grown up with a dog and relish the joys of canine companionship, it is hard to live without one. It may be that through knowing families with dogs, you have seen the rewards they bring and want the same for your family.

Just wanting a family dog, however, is not enough. To put it bluntly; will a dog want to live with you? Bringing a dog into your home is a mutual venture. Before actually getting one, ask yourself these questions.

Will I both now and in the future have the time to train, exercise, groom, and play with a dog? Will there be space in my home and in the area where I live to house and exercise a dog?

Will I be able to afford the annual feeding and maintenance costs? Are there any family members who are intensely allergic or for other medical reasons should not live with a dog?

Are there any local rules or regulations that prohibit me from keeping a dog or a specific breed of dog?