So, you and your significant other are considering acquiring a dog? That is fantastic! Getting a furry pet can surely make your life happier and a little more chaotic. Similar like choosing to move in together or raid the “good” ice cream shop after midnight, it’s a significant choice.
Let’s discuss what actually has to be taken into account to make this work for both of you before you dash off to pick the nicest puppy at the shelter.
1. Lifestyle Fit
First up, take a hard look at your lifestyles. If you’re both super active, a high-energy dog who loves hikes and beach runs might be perfect. But if your idea of a busy day is a Netflix marathon, a chill, couch-loving dog might be better. Keep in mind that the breed of dog you select should complement your lifestyle and energy level.
For instance, it can be frustrating for both parties to choose a high-energy breed, such as an Australian Shepherd or Border Collie, when your preference is for a sedentary lifestyle. Max, our Border Collie, taught my partner and I this lesson the hard way. With his endless energy, he transformed our leisurely Sundays into spontaneous frisbee competitions and required more participation from us than we were used to. To maintain a harmonious coexistence, it is essential to match your energy levels and lifestyle with that of the dog you bring home.
2. Financial Responsibility
Dogs aren’t cheap. There’s food, vet visits, grooming, toys, and unexpected costs (like when Max decided our couch was a chew toy). Before getting a dog, sit down together and seriously go over your finances. This involves budgeting for regular costs as well as putting money aside in an emergency fund in case unforeseen veterinary care—which may be shockingly costly—comes up. Don’t forget to factor in the expense of obedience classes, which are necessary to guarantee your dog is socialized and well-mannered.
While choosing a name or a gorgeous collar is much more enjoyable, it’s important to make sure you can afford the additional costs without being overwhelmed. Having enough money on hand can mean the difference between a stressful and fulfilling encounter with your new pet.
3. Long-Term Commitments and Pet Sitting
Think about your future in terms of career and travel. For example, if you or your partner have a job that requires a lot of travel, who’s going to take care of your new pup? Here’s where responsible pet sitting comes into play. Finding a reliable pet sitter or a good boarding facility is a must. We had a situation last year when both of us had to travel for work, and thankfully, our neighbor, a retired vet, was happy to step in.
It was a relief knowing someone experienced was watching over Max. If you don’t have a convenient neighbor vet, consider establishing a relationship with a trusted pet sitter early on, or explore pet-friendly workplaces and flexible scheduling options that can accommodate your dog’s needs.
4. Time Investment
Puppies require a ton of time and patience, especially in the training phase. Are you ready for midnight potty runs and basic obedience training? Ascertain that you are both willing to share the puppy responsibilities. It will be a difficult journey if one of you isn’t totally committed to the concept.
Remember that life is about more than simply having fun and cuddling; it’s also about taking early morning walks and cleaning up messes. Examine your current schedules to see if they accommodate the exercise, socialization, and training your dog will require. This is a lifelong commitment that will likely require ten or more years of regular care, not just a few months.
5. Compatibility with Each Other’s Expectations
Finally, make sure your expectations align. Maybe you’re imagining a lap dog that will cuddle with you while you read, but your partner is thinking of a guard dog that will patrol the yard. Talk it out. Seriously, discuss everything from training methods to who gets up to feed the dog in the morning.
Compatibility isn’t just about getting along—it’s about agreeing on how to raise your pup. Make sure that both of you are clear about what you want in a dog, how you will handle behavioral challenges, and what roles each of you will play in its care. This will help prevent misunderstandings and conflicts down the line.
Adopting a dog with your significant other can strengthen your bond and bring a lot of fun into your life. It’s also a serious commitment that requires cooperation, planning, and plenty of patience. Make sure to consider all these points carefully. If you do decide to go ahead, you’re in for a rewarding journey that’s as much about growing together as it is about enjoying your new four-legged friend. Here’s to new adventures, a few compromises, and lots of tail wags!
Photo by Gustavo Fring from Pexels
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