Adopting a dog has a ton of rewards and creates a mutually beneficial relationship between dogs and people. Even though adopting a dog is a rewarding experience, there are some things to consider before making the leap and welcoming a new four-legged member to your family.
You Want to Adopt a Dog, but Can You Provide the Basics?
What dog lover doesn’t find it hard to resist the power of a dog’s “puppy eyes” or that strange and intoxicating smell of puppy breath? Before you let your heart do the decision-making, one of the most important questions to ask yourself before adopting a dog is: do I have the time and patience for a dog?
What are your work hours? Can your hobbies and weekend activities incorporate a dog? How much exercise and mental stimulation can you provide for a dog?
Adopting a dog is more about weaving your pup into your everyday life than your dog being a fixture in your spare time. You will be your dog’s entire world. If your days look more like a collection of long to-do lists that you have to squeeze free time into, you probably won’t have enough quality time to share with a canine companion.
Depending on your dog’s health needs, you might have to provide special food for their diet and specialty foods can be pricey. Besides food and annual checkups, plan on spending at least $100 each month on toys, snacks (like our delicious soft or crunchy peanut butter treats!), grooming tools, and other accessories for your dog.
What Kind of Dog Will Fit Into Your Lifestyle?
Maintenance and behavior issues are the two most common reasons people surrender a dog. Choosing a dog that fits your lifestyle greatly decreases the chance of having to make the heartbreaking decision to surrender your pup.
Are you the type of person who enjoys leisurely walks and low-energy activities? Sorry, but a high-energy breed isn’t the right choice for you. If you have young children, a roommate with pet allergies, or other pets, keeping their needs in mind before adopting a dog is key. And here’s a detailed article from our friends over at Fluent Woof about all-things dog dander and managing dog allergies to keep in mind. Young children are still learning boundaries and rules, so an adult dog may not be the right fit for your family.
Although, adopting an adult dog from a rescue comes with some benefits. Most adult dogs are house trained, know some basic commands, are spayed or neutered, and have passed their teething phase.
Adopting a puppy comes with added responsibilities and even more patience! Puppies need to eat 3-4 times a day, pee outside frequently, need house training, may steal your shoes for teething toys, and can only be left alone for a few hours a day. Whether you adopt an older dog or puppy, either experience is rewarding and unique.
If you’re renting, you don’t want to jeopardize your housing or put yourself and a dog through the stress of rehoming. Keep in mind certain counties and apartment complexes have breed-specific legislation that bans certain dog breeds. Even housing insurance companies can raise their rates depending on your dog’s breed.
Take Your Time to Find the Right Dog for You
Adopting a dog with a personality that fits your routine and lifestyle is the key to choosing the right companion. Even if a dog doesn’t fit into your life at this moment, knowing whether you want to adopt a couch-potato or working dog will help you make the best decision in the future.
Stop by our shop page and stock up on some peanut butter treats for your new four-legged family member! When you order a Peanut Butter Bundle, you can choose from our crunchy or soft-baked treats to pair with our CBD Peanut Butter!
