There are several questions you should ask yourself and your partner or spouse before embarking on the purchase of a family dog. People often jump into dog ownership without realizing the responsibility involved. And not all dogs are the same. So it’s crucial that you weigh all the information and make an informed decision, and not just because “it’s so cute.” Too many dogs end up in animal shelters or on the streets because new owners didn’t take various things into account.
Should you get a puppy or should you get a senior dog?
Do you prefer a pedigree or would you rather have a stray dog?
Should I get a big dog or a smaller dog?
What kind of dog should you get for your children?
It is very important to understand that not all dogs will work in all families that have children. Most families will have a dog as a companion for a child or children and will not really think about whether it is the right dog for them and their children. You’ll hear someone say “Oh, these dogs are great with kids.” It is important to take the time to get to know the dog you are thinking of adding to your family. Just because someone says he’s a great dog for kids doesn’t mean he’s the best dog for your family.
Another consideration is that puppies and babies or very young children don’t always mix. A small child does not understand that a puppy should not be grabbed by the tail or the neck. This will result in hurting the pup and possibly making the dog become protective of itself, causing even a well-rounded dog to become aggressive and possibly bite the child to stop the child from harming itself. A small child will tend to hold a puppy too tightly causing physical damage and changing the dog’s attitude again.