#6 – What will the dog do during the day?
If both adults work, what will the dog do? Can you afford daycare or a dog walker? If you need a dog that is content to just sit at home all day while you are at work, consider an older dog and make sure that is at the top of your list. If you are so busy you are rarely home, you may want to skip a dog.
#7 – Do you know what kind of dog you want?
If, at this point, you are still thinking “yes, we want a dog,” then have you talked about the kind of dog? Don’t just go to the shelter and pick the cutest one. You need to think about size, age, gender, energy level, etc. Think about your family’s lifestyle and then write up what your “ideal dog” would look like. Take that description to the shelter and let the workers help you with your choice.
#8 – Are You Prepared?
So you said, yes. Do you have all the supplies ready? Having her bed, bowls, toys, etc., all set and ready will make the transition easier for you and the dog.
#9 – Have you set rules?
Before the dog comes home, sit down and come up with the “house rules” for the dog. Will she be allowed on the furniture? On the beds? What about jumping on people? Having the rules set from day one will make it easier on your dog.
#10 – Do you feel good about it?
If you are picking out a dog, or thinking about a certain dog, and you don’t feel good about it, don’t do it. You should look at that dog and know it’s the right one for your family. As mentioned earlier, there are many dogs out there and if the whole family isn’t sure about this one, then he is probably not meant to be part of your family.
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