Don’t Get a Dog If……

I work with lots of amazing owners and some pretty fabulous dogs. I’m often contacted by people for advice wanting to get their first dog. But haven’t quite thought through the whole process yet. Here’s what I discuss with them:

Don’t get a dog if…

1. You’re rarely home. Dogs are social animals and need regular companionship. If you work long hours out of the house, you’ll need someone to look after your dog… and that costs money!
2. You’re not ready for a long-term commitment. Dogs live 10 to 15 years or more. This isn’t a temporary phase. This is a decade of responsibility.
3. You don’t have the time or energy to train them. Dogs need consistent training. An untrained dog can become a handful if they are not taught what to do instead.
4. You can’t afford the costs. Vet bills, food, toys, grooming, boarding, daycare, insurance, training. It’s all very expensive and does add up.
5. You expect them to behave perfectly without effort. Dogs aren’t born knowing human rules. They’ll chew, bark, have accidents and wreak your furniture unless you invest time in teaching them to make better choices.
6. You’re a very light sleeper and can’t handle interruptions. Puppies are restless. Older dogs snore. Some bark at every sound. If they’re ill, you maybe up several times. You can’t just shut your dog away at night and forget about them.
7. You’re extremely house-proud or dislike mess. Dogs shed. They bring in dirt. They wear out carpets and scuff wooden floors. And don’t get me started on the dreaded “wet dog smell”.
8. You have allergies and aren’t ready to manage them. Many people are allergic to dog fur, dander and saliva. Don’t assume you’ll adjust. And don’t assume a “hypoallergenic dog” is actually that!
9. You just want one because they’re “cute”. Aesthetics are not a reason to bring a living creature into your home and life. Dogs have emotional and physical needs far beyond how they look.
10. You’re not willing to adapt your lifestyle. Want spontaneous travel, late nights out, or to sleep in every weekend? Dogs need routine and attention. Every. Single. Day….

To follow up or make an appointment or find out more information about Ringwood Dogs, Ashley Heath on the Dorset, Hampshire and New Forest border, please contact Isabelle Adams-Papé by clicking on the Contact Me tab.

I look forward to meeting you and working with your dogs.

Teaching Owners – Training Dogs.  Happy dog training.

Isabelle Papé IMDT, ISAP, KAD
Ringwood Dogs, Three Legged Cross on the Dorset, Hampshire and New Forest border.
Puppy Training Consultations, Dog Training Consultations, Puppy Training Courses, Dog Training Club Classes, Kids Around Dogs, Helpful Hounds, Doggie Daycare, Dog Boarding, Dog Shop