How to Tell if Your Family is Ready for a Puppy

Micah Castro, Guest Writer for Inpui.com
When you have a family getting a dog is a big decision. There is a lot that you need to take into consideration before you take the plunge and get a puppy. You’ll likely be facing added pressure from your children as you’re trying to make a decision so you need to be sure you weigh your options carefully.
There’s no doubt that pets can be very therapeutic but they can also be a lot of work. If you and your family are ready, then a new puppy can be a great addition to your home. When you do get a puppy, however, your children will undoubtedly become quite attached, so to best avoid heartbreak you should make sure that you’re absolutely ready. Here are a few things to consider when deciding if your family is ready for a new canine friend:-

• Do We Have Room? You have to make sure that you have adequate room for a dog before you purchase one. Puppies have lots of energy and need room to run around. While it is possible to own a dog while in a small apartment you’ll want to make sure that you have enough space outside to make up for the lack of interior space. A large dog friendly grassy area is a must for dog owners in apartments.
• Do We Have Time? Is your schedule packed with work, driving the kids around, or other errands? Raising and training a puppy takes a lot of time and dedication. If you can’t be consistent when you’re training them it will be a lot harder for them to learn. Owning a dog should be enjoyable and not stressful.
• Are the Kids Old Enough? Timing is really important when it comes to getting a dog. If you have infants in your house you may want to wait until they get a little bit older. It does depend on the breed, but some dogs have the instinct to show dominance over small children. There’s no comparing a child’s life to your dog’s, so you want to make sure that all unnecessary risks are removed. As well when you’re children are older you can ask them to help you with caring for the dog. You can teach them responsibility as they learn to care for their animal.
• Can We Afford a Dog? The upfront cost of a dog can vary depending on the breed, and you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a great dog. You should take into consideration the costs of feeding the dog, and taking care of it if it gets sick. Vet bills can get very expensive and once you’re attached to a dog you may feel obligated to pay for pet healthcare that you really can’t afford. 

If you can answer yes to these questions then it very may well be time for your family to get a puppy. Getting a dog should never create a financial burden for you or your family. With a little planning and preparation you can make sure that transition of getting a puppy goes smooth for the whole family.
Micah Castro is a freelance writer for JacksonWhite Attorneys at Law. JacksonWhite's experienced Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Attorney has helped many people facing financial difficulties gain a fresh start in life.