I recently had a chance to interview owner and founder of Paw & Order Dog Training, Elissa Weimer-Sentner, about the things people should consider before they gift a puppy for Christmas this year?
Adding a puppy to your family is not a decision that should come lightly or without much consideration. While it’s a heart-warming sentiment to wrap a puppy in a bow under the Christmas tree, statistically, puppies are surrendered to humane societies or adoption centers the most in the weeks following the holidays. So before making a life-changing decision, Mrs. Weimer-Sentner suggests thinking about these things first:
- Do you have the time and energy to give to the dog?
- Respect the dog enough to give it the attention it deserves. That means dedicated training, exercising and playing with the dog.
- Do you have the space for a dog?
- Certain dog breeds require room to grow and run and explore. Make sure you are equipped with a yard or large house to allow them the best lifestyle.
- Can you make this long-term commitment?
- Do you plan on moving or have any big life changes coming up? Dogs need stability and routine so make sure you can provide them with that.
- Are you financially stable enough to support a dog?
- A dog doesn’t just cost the amount you pay to buy or adopt the dog. There are vet visits, medicines, training, food and toys and more to consider.
- What breed is best for your family?
- Consider your family's lifestyle and what kind of dog will best fit with that.
Why is it important for families to do research before choosing a dog breed?
Adding a puppy to your family is not a decision that should come lightly or without much consideration. While it’s a heart-warming sentiment to wrap a puppy in a bow under the Christmas tree, statistically, puppies are surrendered to humane societies or adoption centers the most in the weeks following the holidays.
What do families often overlook when choosing to get a dog?
There are a lot of things to consider when choosing to get a dog. First things first, welcoming a dog to the family is not a short-term agreement. It’s a long-term commitment. According to the AKC, the average lifespan of a dog is 10–13 years, so families need to consider the next decade and what that might look like. Are there any big moves or new children in the picture?
Another big component to consider is the finances a dog requires. Pets don’t just cost the amount you pay for them at a shelter or a breeder. There are a lot of costs to consider before you bring a dog into the family. Be prepared to pay for vet visits, medicine, training, food, toys, and more!
Additionally, while adopting from shelters is a great choice and helps so many loving pups find their forever homes, it isn’t always easy. A lot of dogs come with an unknown history and introducing them to new environments or people can be a really stressful challenge. There’s no way to know how a dog will react to such a big change, so be prepared for the worst and hope for the best.
What factors can affect the right breed choice for a family?
Doing your research beforehand will be super beneficial to choosing the right dog for your family. Some breeds are great with children, others prefer a quiet, calm lifestyle. Some dogs love to run and jump and dig and play, and others can be very mild-mannered. Consider what your family’s lifestyle is like and what kind of dog will best fit that.
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