5 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Getting a Dog

What a dog wants?

Before considering buying, fostering or adopting a dog, take some time to consider the things you have to offer the dog and not the other way around.

It's easy to want a dog, but do you have the credentials? Are you a serial shopper, always looking for the next best thing? Then STOP! A dog is not for you and I would suggest buying a stuffed animal. This way you can put it away whenever you feel responsibility or commitment.

However, if you have patience, an accepting heart and determination to relax and grow into your decision, then getting a dog is a wonderful experience. Ask these questions which are more focused from the dogs point of view and not your own.

• Are you Ready? - Is anyone ready for life changes, a new baby, horrible TV sitcoms, probably not, but having a dog in the house is a Life Changing Event. Water on the floor, toys scattered everywhere and of course shedding hair. My dogs only shed twice a year, six months in the Fall and six months in the Spring. So be prepared to have hair on everything you own and touch in your home. Being ready doesn't mean put safety covers on your outlets or covering your couch in plastic, it simply means put yourself in the mindset that there will be food on the floor, water spilled, muddy footprints in the kitchen and barks at the mailman. If you can do that you will be able to deal with the unexpected much easier and not default to giving up.

• What is your Intention? - Are you looking for a trophy? Something you only pull out when it benefits you? Are you filling a void from a failing relationship or stressful work environment? Whatever the reason, a dog is not for you if you are not honest about your purpose for getting one. Yes, a dog can certainly provide comfort in these situations, but that should not be your only reason for getting one. Your want for a dog should come from a place of responsibility, partnership and true love.

• What is your energy? - Dogs adopt their owners personalities and energy. Ask yourself are you a high energy person with constant activity? Are you nervous, aggressive, quiet or just laid back, the dog you bring into your home will most certainly adopt those same traits. If you don't want an aggressive dog, nervous dog, shy dog, ask yourself what energy am I creating that my dog adopts? Having this perspective will help you gain insights not only into your own personality, but your dogs as well.

• Do I have space? - Space is subjective here. This could mean a yard for your dog to run around, a corner of your bed for them to sleep on or a place in your heart. Either way, ask yourself do I have the physical and emotional space to have a dog in my life and am I ok with sharing that space.

• Are you ok with Goodbye? - A dog's lifespan is dependent on several factors such as breed, environment and diet, but one day you will have to say goodbye and it will crush you! You don't think about end of life when you are just starting one with a dog and honestly I'm not sure anything can prepare you for it. Just make sure it is not the reason to not get a dog. They can bring so much joy, laughter and love that can never be forgotten or erased.