All dogs need care, attention, and love, but some require more of your time than others. These questions can help you decide if you have time for a dog—and what kind of pooch will best suit your lifestyle.
Are you settled or in perpetual motion?
Before you look at dogs, take a look at your life. Are you planning to move soon? Do you work extended hours or travel frequently? Are you battling a serious illness? If you’re going through a big upheaval, this isn’t a good time to get a dog.
A new dog will only add stress to your hectic life—and it isn’t fair to rob him of your attention and affection. If you want a pet, consider one who’s more self-sufficient—a pet rodent or fish will probably fit your lifestyle better.
Can you check on your pet during the day?
If your schedule keeps you away from home most of the day, you may want to adopt an older, housebroken dog. He can handle long stays indoors better than a puppy. If you’re set on a young pup anyway, consider finding a "doggy daycare" or hiring a pet sitter or dog walker to give your puppy bathroom breaks, exercise, and attention when you’re not available.
Are you up to the challenges of training?
You’ll need a good store of patience to train a puppy to be your companion. Boisterous pups need more parenting than older dogs, so plan lots of time for housetraining and socialization. As your dog gets a bit older, you’ll want to consider obedience classes and daily follow-up sessions at home. And if he’s a hunting or show dog, he’ll require additional specialized training.
Can you provide daily workouts?
All pets need exercise, but some dogs don’t need as much help from you. Smaller toy breeds get enough aerobics just racing around your house. However, medium and larger dogs require two 20- to 45-minute workout sessions a day.
And providing a fenced backyard isn’t always enough. Like a lot of humans, many dogs won’t exercise by themselves. You need to act as your dog’s personal fitness trainer by providing walks and daily playtime with you.
How much grooming time can you spare?
All dogs benefit from regular brushings and baths, but many breeds—such as Lhasa apsos and Pekingese—need attentive daily care. Before you select a dog, make sure you can meet his special grooming needs.
