Adding a dog to your family is one of the most rewarding things you can do. It’s a great way to teach kids responsibility and add a loving pet to your family. However, owning a dog is not for everyone. It’s a big commitment and there is a lot to consider before you decide to get a furry friend. Here are just a few things to take into account first.

Breed

The breed you get should somewhat depend on your lifestyle. For instance, if you work twelve hours a day, you probably shouldn’t get a husky as they require a lot of exercise. If you’re in a small apartment, you might want to look for yorkies for sale Orlando instead of opting for a larger breed. Shelters will often ask you questions to help you determine what type of dog might be right for you.

Training

Unless you adopt an older dog that is already trained, you’ll likely need to help your dog out some. You’ll need to decide if you’re going to take the time to train your puppy or if you’re going to send him to a program. Young puppies require a lot of time and attention when you first get them, so you’ll want to make sure someone is at home frequently to help house train and ease the transition for him.

Finances

Dogs are not cheap. If you get a puppy, he’ll likely need to be neutered and will require a number of vaccines. If you go out of town, you’ll likely have to spend the money to board him. He may require monthly medicine and other unforeseen expenses can often arise. It’s important to make sure you are financially stable enough to support a dog before you decide to get one.

Getting a dog can be one of the best decisions you ever make, but you want to make sure you are prepared first. Educating yourself on what to expect can help make bringing home that fluffy bundle of joy easier and happier for everyone.