Originally published: August 5, 2016 | Last updated: August 4, 2024<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TL;DR<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Before adopting a dog, consider these 4 critical factors: (1) time commitment<\/strong> \u2013 dogs need daily exercise, training, and attention; (2) financial costs<\/strong> \u2013 expect $1,000-$3,000+ per year for food, vet bills, and supplies; (3) living situation<\/strong> \u2013 ensure your home and lifestyle can accommodate a dog; (4) long-term commitment<\/strong> \u2013 dogs live 10-15+ years and need consistent care throughout their lives.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n
Before you adopt a dog, there are a few things that you should consider. So if you\u2019re reading this article now, I think it\u2019s safe to assume that you are considering adopting a dog yourself. If that is the case, I want to take the time to tell you that I admire that great step you are about to take.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Adopting a dog or even any animal at such is a great way to contribute positively to earth and its creatures. Through adoption you\u2019ll be giving an animal a second chance, who may not have had one otherwise. Not only that but you\u2019ll be supporting an adoption facility, which in turn could help even more dogs to find their forever homes. For those reasons, if you are about to take that one bold step of adopting a dog, then I applaud you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, there are some facts to consider before you adopt.<\/p>\n\n\n
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1. Can you afford to adopt a dog?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Don\u2019t forget that when you adopt a dog, you will likely have to pay money up front. Weird right? You would think that since you are trying to help it wouldn\u2019t cost any money at all. In some cases pet rescue organizations will give away dogs for free, but you can also expect to pay up to $250 for your pet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So what are you paying for? Your adoption fees will cover the care and costs<\/a> that have been put into your dog by the shelter. While you\u2019ll still be saving a lot compared to buying a dog from a breeder, you also have to consider the costs that you\u2019ll incur over your dog\u2019s lifetime. On average, a dog will cost around $7000 over its lifetime.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fortunately, the truth is that it is an investment. Look at it this way, you are going home with a friend that will always give you a warm welcome when you get back home from a long day at work. If that isn\u2019t a big enough reward, you can also consider it from the perspective of helping the earth and the animals that live on it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. Are you healthy enough?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Maybe you haven\u2019t exhibited allergic reactions in the past to animals, but if you haven\u2019t been around dogs very often, then you might have a different experience once you\u2019re living with one all the time. If you\u2019re worried about this, maybe it is best that you do an allergy test or check up to know if it is a good idea to bring in a dog into your home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Your physical health could also influence the type of dog that you decide to adopt. Before you adopt, do some research and how active that breed is and how much physical attention it will need. Maybe instead of a large dog that will constantly need to play outside, you\u2019ll find yourself much more comfortable with a smaller one that can get all of its activity from running in the backyard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Another thing to make sure of is that you know where the dog came from. Have a talk with the pound, animal shelter or whoever is giving you the dog for adoption, so that you can get every useful piece of information about the dog. For example, knowing their shot routine and vaccine dates. This way you will be sure you won\u2019t risk the health of your family members.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
3. Will you be able to train your dog?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Make plans on having your new dog trained. This might seem like a difficult task as the dog might not have a quick connection with you at first, but just stick to the training schemes and be rest assured that you will start seeing results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Look online for dog trainers who offer classes nearby. Not only will attending these help to teach your dog obedience, but it can also be a great learning and bonding experience for the both of you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Maybe you picked-up an easy-going dog, or training is a bit too expensive to go to unless necessary. You can try the dog training yourself, there\u2019s tons of instructional videos and articles online.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. Is the dog healthy enough?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
It is a common thing to see abused or old dogs in a shelter home. Dogs like this with special needs also require adoption and a good home. However, it is better for you to decide first if you are ready to open your heart and home to a dog that is likely going to be needing medical attention. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
If the dog will most likely need medical attention, be prepared for your expenses to go up. If the dog is growing old, be prepared for your time together to be shorter than with a younger dog. For these reasons sick or old dogs often get skipped at the adoption line, so if you\u2019re prepared to take one in, I can guarantee that it would mean the world to them. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
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I\u2019ve raised a few points for you to take in, and you should now have a better idea of what to consider before adopting. Think about all of it deeply, weigh the advantages and disadvantages of your situation, and be sure you can comfortably cater for an extra friend. If you can, go find yourself one lucky dog!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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