Adding a New Canine Family Member

Thinking About Adding a Dog to Your Family?

If you haven't gotten your new dog yet and are in the process of researching, congratulations!

You are one of a select group of folks who realize that adding a new canine member to the family is not a decision to be made impulsively. You are aware of, and don't take lightly, the cost, committment and responsibility involved in adding a dog to your family (about 15 years worth!).

However, if you're just starting to think about getting a dog, please consider the following:

• Is a dog the right pet for you and your family? (Read "Get Real"- an article to help new dog owners develop realistic expectations)
• Puppy or adult dog? - According to Michelle Williamson of TopDog, Pet Rescue:

  "Contrary to the popular belief that puppies are a 'clean slate', by the time they reach their new families they are in fact very affected by the upbringing and environment they have been subjected to. But you can’t tell because the problems they have don’t surface until they are adults and you find yourself trying to manage their unwanted behaviours.

  "This is why I’m such a fan of adult dog adoption for families. Adult dog personalities are totally developed and there for all to see and if placed with a complementary family, they are a match made in heaven." (www.wheredopuppiescomefrom.com.au)

  
• Can you afford the vet, food, toys and equipment bills? (Your dog's food choice requires some research, on your part, to determine the best for her. Don't plan to buy just whatever is on sale at the local discount or grocery store. See FAQs for more info.) Drs. Foster & Smith have an interesting article on "Cost of Owning A Dog " . The ASPCA offers another cost calculator here.
• Are you ready to puppy-proof your home (and most of the proofing applies to adult dogs, too)
• All but a handful of breeds shed. All of them can track dirt and debris into your house, as well. Are you prepared to live with the mess and extra cleaning involved?
• Your dog will need exercise, healthy food, grooming, training and, of course, your companionship and love. Will you provide them?
• Where will your dog get his exercise? Most dogs need vigorous exercise at least twice a day. A fenced yard is the best option, while dog daycare, arranged play-dates, and dog parks provide other options. If you plan to exercise your dog in your own yard, does your neighborhood allow fences? If not, you may wish to participate in your neighborhood meetings to try to convince your association otherwise. Fences or extra-large dog runs can be tastefully built and/or placed. Even more affordable chain-link can be vinyl coated in black or green which becomes nearly invisible in most yards. A word about electronic/"invisible" fences. Our recommended reading list includes a wonderful book, Dog-Friendly Gardens, Garden-Friendly Dogs... which helps you design a yard both you and your dog can enjoy!
• Do you know what it takes to be a responsible dog owner? (Click here to read a good, short article on responsible pet ownership)
• Are you mentally prepared? (Click here for a Dog Preparedness Checklist from animalplanet.com)
• Who is this dog for? If you're buying a dog for your children, keep in mind that, no matter what they say, children tend to lose interest in their dogs when they're not new any more, and mom or dad end up taking care of them. It would be irresponsible to bring a dog into your home with the intention of giving her up if the children decide they don't want to take care of her any more.



For more information on dogs in general go to animalplanet.com's Dog Guide

Too often, we see dogs living outside in backyards, pens, cable runs, or tied to something (which is actually illegal in a couple of states, cities and counties, thank goodness) with minimal human (or even animal) contact; they are often called "yard" or "outside" dogs by their owners. The new terminology for these dogs is "resident" dog. It means the dog resides at this location, but is not a family pet. Most dogs are very social animals and need to be surrounded by their "packs" (you and your family). The unfortunate myth that, because dogs are animals, they belong outside, is often responsible for many dogs living in these sad situations. Your dog belongs inside, with you! Also, dogs tied to cable runs or stationary objects or inside electronic fences are vulnerable to attacks from other animals or people. Since they can't escape, those who survive often become aggressive in self-defense.

Whether you decide on a puppy, adolescent or adult dog. You'll have many years of enjoyment and companionship ahead of you!