I've had responsibility on the mind lately. I am a frequent visitor to several classified ad sections dealing with dogs and dog services for sale. There is a trend in dog ownership that I see as inexcusable.
As a professional dog trainer I know that dogs are not the easiest animals to own. When talking about ease of ownership there is typically no comparing the work involved with caring for a dog or puppy as there is with taking on a cat, fish, or turtle. As I view these classifieds from time to time I am upset to see such phrases as "Have to get rid of the dog because she sheds so much" or "This dog needs an owner who can give him more attention" or "Needs an owner who can give him a daily walk" or "Needs an owner who can give her training".
The question that should be posed to these owners is, "What were you thinking?" Were you thinking when you got a dog that it would be simple? Weren't you realizing that a dog is going to shed, is going to bark, is going to need training, is going to need exercise?
This article is for the potential dog owner in hopes that I can help you understand what it is you are getting in to:
1- Dogs shed. They get dirty. They can smell bad. Can you deal with that? They will need baths, and special tools to manage shedding. Dogs need special shampoos.
2- Dogs cost money. Vaccinations are necessary for every single puppy. Worming medication is needed for every puppy. There are also many other medical costs such as blood and stool tests, potential x-rays, and many other costs that arise from normal dog ownership. Keep in mind, I'm talking about healthy animals. If your dog has sicknesses or health defects your tab could easily run into the thousands. You must figure health care costs into your budget before getting any dog.
3- Every single dog requires training. You have to remember that a dog is an animal. Nearly every one of his instincts is contrary to what you want in a dog. Dogs jump, chew, dig, go to the bathroom in the house, etc. It is your responsibility to teach your dog what is acceptable. It will probably be months at a minimum before you can allow your dog freedom in the house while you aren't home. If you want to take your dog to the park off leash it will probably require months of training and hundreds or thousands of dollars in professional trainer costs. If you want the perfect dog it will likely take hours and hours of work over the space of many months, lots of money, and a boat-load of patience.
Dogs aren't accessories to be acquired on a whim and discarded when it isn't convenient. Responsible dog ownership requires real work, real effort, and real money. If you aren't in it for the long haul, don't get the dog in the first place.
Good luck in your quest to owning the right dog.
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