Everything You Need to Know About Buying a Dog

Owning a dog is both fun and exciting. But this also entails an additional responsibility to any future dog owner. Make sure that you have read articles about everything you need to know about buying a dog before actually getting one.  

In an article released by the American Kennel Club, dogs' roles are more than companionship and entertainment. Having dogs around makes us feel less lonely and stressed out as per the result of some studies. As they are active animals, they also help humans be more active and become more social. Thanks to this furry companion, they offer some sort of emotional support for us to cope easier during times of crisis. 

Before deciding to get one for yourself, it is imperative to do some due diligence. This involves researching which dog breed would fit your lifestyle. Moreover, the decision on which part of the house is best to make their home, and what expenses you need to be prepared for.  

Below are some of the things you need to know about buying a dog. 


Do Your Research on Different Breeds

Taking time for research is important because different dog breeds have different characteristics and temperaments. The dog will become an additional part of the family. Its behavior should fit the dynamics within the family. If you are living alone, the dog’s characteristics should be aligned with your lifestyle, energy, and characteristics too. Connect with us to not only review the specifics for reach breed, but also the personalities and temperaments of the parents.

If you are getting a breed that requires regular grooming and exercise but it’s the opposite of what you can provide. It’s best to consider other options. If you don’t have the time and patience to regularly comb its fur or take it out for a walk or run, the dog will just be lonely and could get sick. 

Reading about the dog’s breed is like the ‘getting to know a stage’ in dating. Before you meet the dog in person, you already have an idea of what to expect. Consider some of these factors when deciding on the breed:

  • The availability of space where the dog is going to live. 

  • The family structure and dynamics where the dog is going to live with.

  • The environment where the dog will be raised. (city, countryside)


Have Realistic Expectations and Set a Budget

Apart from being ready emotionally, you also have to be financially prepared if you plan to own a dog. The financial aspect is an important area of things you need to know about buying a dog. Impulsive buying, peer pressure, or jumping on the trend of getting a dog could not only cost you more, but you could also find yourself in a stressful situation after. 

Buying a dog can be expensive. Be prepared for some unexpected and ongoing costs involved. Unexpected expenditure involves unscheduled vet visits, medical supplies, and other puppy supplies. Ongoing expenses include the day-to-day supplements of dogs such as food, vitamins, and treats. There are also other expenses that you need to consider such as grooming, toys, vet check-ups, insurance, social classes, and others. 

Planning the budget allocation for the dog helps you to be financially ready with your expenses as well as your dogs. Being unable to provide for your dog's needs could be stressful and you don’t want to be in that situation. 


Visit the Breeder or Shelter in Person

Seeing the pup you’re getting in person is recommended. You can easily identify if the dog has any physical deformation. In addition, visiting the dog physically allows you to spend time with it. You can somehow get a better sense of its temperament and if this is something that you can live with. The dog will be living in your house so it is important to make sure that the two of you get along just fine. 

Site visits also allow you to personally visit the breeders. You can ask them questions and could better judge their character based on how they accommodate you. They should also be welcoming when it comes to answering your questions. If you take the time to visit the breeding site, you can see the environment where your dog was born and raised. You will have an idea of the breeding practice of the breeders you're dealing with. At Stokeshire, we allow this for our PICK OF THE LITTER clients


Evaluate Your Lifestyle to Choose the Right Breed for You

Why is lifestyle an important consideration when getting a dog? Think of getting a partner who loves to dance, sing or go to theaters. But you’re the kind of person who finds these things boring and a waste of time. The same goes for getting a dog. If your dog loves to be outside or in the park but you’d rather stay home, you are not compatible. You better look for another breed. 

 

Prepare Your Home for a New Pet and Get the Necessary Supplies Ahead of Time

Your home must be ready for the newest additional part of your family. But, you have to make sure that the house is ready to welcome it. Pet-proofing your home means that there are no slippers, remote control, or cords scattered around that it could chew. This means that there is food ready when the dog is finally home and as an owner, you are aware of which food is toxic for dogs. The bedding is nice and warm for resting and sleeping. There are medicines ready in case needed. And there are toys to keep it entertained. You have to make sure that the house and the rest of the family are ready to welcome your new dog. 

Getting a dog is like having a newborn baby. It is fulfilling and fun but could be time-consuming and expensive. It is a long-term life commitment.  A dog's lifespan could stretch up to 15 years. Do you think you are ready for this kind of long-term commitment? Chances are that if you’re here and reading this post, you’ve come to the right place after doing your research. We’re here to help you make the best decision for you!


If you are planning to buy a dog, expore our website. We’re more than happy to answer your questions before you make that purchase. 

Parenthood, Personal LifeJames StokesStokeshire Designer DoodlesPets