Can’t wait to get a puppy? Our questions will help you make sure the time is right for you to become a puppy parent.
Hearing the pitter-patter of little paws around the house is wonderful, but puppies can be a lot of work. Before you bring home a bouncing bundle of fluff, make sure you’ve considered everything and know what you’re in for. Answering the questions below will help you make sure you’re absolutely ready to bring a puppy into your life.
Are you ready to make a lifetime commitment?
The average lifespan of a dog is approximately 12 years, with some reaching the ripe old age of 15 or even 20. Sure it’s easy to spend hours playing with your new four-legged friend when they’re a cute puppy, but make sure you are prepared to love and care for your dog just as much when they grow up. Dogs need both physical exercise and mental stimulation every day, and they thrive when included in family activities.
Have you budgeted for a new member of the family?
If you’re new to being a puppy parent, you may be surprised at how expensive caring for puppies and dogs can be. There are plenty of upfront costs, from kennels, crates, bedding and toys to vaccinations, microchipping and desexing. However, it’s often the ongoing costs that would-be owners forget to consider. These include pet insurance, food, flea, tick and worming treatments, and annual health checks and training. While we at Petbarn can assure you that a new puppy is worth every penny, ensure you’ve considered all these costs so you’re prepared.
Do you have time to give your puppy the attention they require?
A puppy is like a baby and you have to put in the time to teach them proper behaviour like where to go to the toilet, how to socialise with humans and other dogs, and overall to follow the rules you set. As their parent, you will be everything to your puppy and they will crave constant attention from you, so if you’re going to be out at work all day with your puppy home alone, you should reconsider if this is the right time for you to bring a new pet into your life.
Do you have enough space for a furry friend?
Take a walk around your home and see if there is a space that you can designate as being for your puppy only. This is where you will put their bedding and it will be a quiet spot where they can go for some alone time when they get overwhelmed. For some breeds, it may be necessary for you to have a decent-sized garden where they can play while you’re at work. Think about the future as well because your puppy will be a fully grown adult before you know it, and their size may drastically increase as they grow!
Is everyone in your family prepared?
Check that the other members of your household are on board with introducing a new puppy into your lives. You must decide if you are all okay with a new housemate who may make the occasional mess before they have been toilet trained and taught what not to chew.
You should also establish how you will share the responsibilities of raising your new puppy including who will walk, feed, groom, train, take them to the vet and more. Also consider the non-human members of your family – do you know how to introduce your cat to a new puppy?
If you answered yes to all, you’re ready for a puppy!
You’ve taken into consideration how a puppy will change all aspects of your life and you’re fully ready to become an excellent puppy parent. Try our Dog Breed Selector quiz to find which breed of dog best suits your lifestyle and get in touch with one of our adoption partners to be one step closer to taking home your bundle of joy. If you have any more questions about getting ready for a new puppy, come in-store to your nearest Petbarn. We’re always happy to answer questions and help in any way we can!
