Have you decided to welcome a dog into your home? Are you wondering if you know everything you need before a new family member arrives? Or maybe you’re still unsure which breed is right for you? Should you choose a purebred puppy, a mixed breed, or maybe adopt a dog from a shelter? With so many questions, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. In this article, we’ll help you organize the information and make the best possible decision.
What should you consider before getting or adopting a dog?
A dog is a living creature that requires care and attention throughout its entire life. In practice, this means you'll be responsible for:
- daily walks, no matter the weather or how you feel,
- regular veterinary care and buying necessary medications,
- providing proper food,
- preparing a place where your dog can rest comfortably,
- arranging care during vacations or taking the dog with you when you travel.
All of these seemingly simple responsibilities can become overwhelming over time, so it’s important to think everything through before bringing a dog into your life.
Should you get a dog for your children?
It's quite common to hear about getting a dog “for the kids.” But can a child really take full responsibility for another living being? I strongly advise against getting any animal just to satisfy a child’s temporary desire. It’s the parents who should be fully aware of the responsibilities and ready to provide proper care and attention. With that in mind, a dog can be a wonderful companion for a child and a great way to help them develop empathy and a sense of responsibility.
Which dog is best for us?
When choosing a dog, you should consider a few key factors:
- your activity level and lifestyle,
- your living conditions and neighborhood,
- the breed's traits and predispositions,
- your financial situation.
Are you active or more of a homebody?
Think about how you like to spend your free time. Do you enjoy long walks, hiking, or running? Or do you prefer relaxing on the couch?
Active people should consider dogs with high energy levels, such as German Shepherds, Beagles, or Pointers. These breeds will love joining you on hikes, jogs, or bike rides.
On the other hand, if you prefer a quiet lifestyle, look for companion breeds like Boston Terriers, Bichon Frises, or Maltese. These small dogs don’t require intense exercise and can burn off their energy running around the house. Of course, that doesn’t mean active people shouldn’t choose these breeds — small dogs also love long walks!
Purebred or mixed breed?
Both purebred dogs and mixed breeds have their pros and cons.
Purebred dogs are more predictable in terms of appearance and behavior. A responsible breeder can tell you what to expect from the breed and whether it suits your lifestyle. For example, Pointers are hunting dogs that require lots of activity. German Shepherds are herding dogs and may show that instinct by trying to herd children.
However, purebred dogs are often more prone to certain health issues, which can make their care more expensive. That doesn’t mean mixed breeds won’t get sick, but their unknown ancestry makes their temperament and predispositions harder to predict — especially in puppies. Their appearance might also change completely as they grow. Still, mixed breeds make just as wonderful and loyal companions.
Does the dog’s size matter?
Absolutely. Size affects both living space and the cost of care. Large dogs need more food and their treatment (e.g. medication dosages) is often more expensive. The same goes for grooming products and accessories. It’s important to assess your financial situation before getting a dog so you’re prepared in case your pet develops health problems or needs a special diet, which can be costly.
Should you buy or adopt?
Whether you choose to buy or adopt, be aware that adult dogs may come with ingrained habits or behavioral issues that will require training, structure, and consistency to resolve. Puppies, while a blank slate, still require time, patience, and boundaries from day one — not just cuddles and treats.
In Summary
Before bringing a dog into your home, make sure it’s not just a passing whim — yours or your child’s. A dog is not a toy and doesn’t deserve to be passed from home to home.
Ask yourself:
- Can I afford to care for and treat a chronically ill dog?
- Do I have the time and energy to meet a dog’s needs for activity, companionship, and training?
- Have I researched the breed I’m interested in, beyond just its looks?
- Am I prepared to take responsibility for a living being for the next 10–15 years?
If your answer is yes — congratulations! A well-chosen and well-cared-for dog can be your best friend for life.
