Getting a dog can be a wonderful experience, both for them and for you. So if you've thought about it, and it feels like a good choice, you should definitely do it. But know that there are many difficult things about owning a dog, and it is important to be aware of them. We have listed them here.
All dogs have different personalities
Every dog has their own personality and their own preferences, so trying to fit a dog into a specific mold is just not going to happen. Before you get started, do some basic research so that you understand the traits and characteristics of each breed. The differences are different for every dog. Also, every dog has its own way of dealing with and reacting to situations, whatever you read and learn about the breed.
Training can take longer than you think While you may be lucky and get a dog from the shelter who already knows how to sit, stay, etc., chances are you'll end up with a dog that barks a lot or chews on everything you own. So be prepared to have to teach them things over and over again.
Determining what to eat can be tricky
All dog foods are not created equal, and it is difficult to choose the right one when there are hundreds of options. Cans and kibbles and frozen foods, grain free, limited and raw ingredients, boutique and legacy brands. What do you choose? Choosing the prettiest bag isn't an option, so talk to your vet. They can suggest the right food based on your dog's age, weight, breed, health condition, etc.
It's like having a small child in the house
Even after you train your dog, they can still surprise you and make mistakes. You may come home and find your shoes have been chewed, or they may get sick and throw up in the house. Dogs will always maintain the mindset of a three or four year old, which means you'll often be tempted to get angry or frustrated.
They will make you tired If you're not an early riser, get ready to be woken up well before your alarm goes off by a dog that needs to urinate, eat or be walked as soon as possible. Dogs can be in need, and they don't care what time it is. And it only starts there. Add multiple walks a day, multiple feedings a day, play, frequent baths, grooming, exercise sessions and the fact that you need to clean the house more. Obviously, these aspects can be super fun and part of what makes owning a dog so great. But it may come as a surprise how time-consuming they can be.
All advice can be stressful
Whether you ask for advice or not, you will get it. From family, friends, the vet, the groomer and even strangers on the street. And that can be very tiring, because everyone seems to know better. So be prepared to hear a lot of conflicting, confusing information. Everyone will have an opinion about your dog, and some of those opinions will be better than others. Be sure to take information from well-educated people, preferably veterinarians or behavioral therapists.
They can test your patience
Don't be surprised if you wake up in the middle of the night to minor accidents like diarrhea all over your floor – which can happen very easily if they eat something they shouldn't. Of course, when that happens, you can just take a deep breath and clean up the mess without it being too much of a problem. However, it is important to remember that all aspects of pet ownership are not always easy or glamorous.
You need to learn your dog's language
When you become attached to your dog, you will quickly begin to know what they are thinking just by the way they act. However, it can be alarming if they start doing something unexpected. And it's up to you to figure out what they need. Skipping a meal, not jumping on the couch, not wanting to go for a walk, going outside more – these are all crying out for help. If your dog is behaving out of the ordinary, monitor the situation and prepare for a visit to the vet.
Veterinary bills can add up quickly If you're getting a dog, you've probably already factored in an annual vet visit and possibly things like spaying or neutering. But don't forget to save for the unexpected. Dogs can sometimes require many visits to the vet. This is especially true if your dog has an illness or if their breed has health problems such as respiratory or heart problems. Do your research before getting a dog and start saving or getting insurance now so you don't have to worry about paying for health problems should they arise.
You have to go home early
Before getting a dog, it's easy to take for granted just how free your schedule really is. You can choose to stay late for work, go out with friends, or go on vacation whenever you want. But that all changes when you have a dog. You can't get up and spontaneously go away for a weekend or take a vacation without finding someone to babysit your dog. So make sure you know what you're getting into before you make the decision to get a dog.
The dog may exhibit undesirable behavior
Dogs can at some point (even years after you have them), exhibit unwanted behavior. Think of barking or lashing out at other dogs or people. Or even be aggressive towards you or someone in the family. They can also become anxious. This can leave you with your hands in the hair and not knowing what to do. So think beyond the sweet face you fall in love with in the first place.
