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[quote=Anonymous]Before adopting a dog, do some research and really think about what you’re getting into. Dogs don’t train themselves and rarely come to you already impeccably trained. The kids will help care for the dog, but not that much. Even the most responsible, diligent children won’t reliably complete dog related chores on their own on a daily basis; there will have to be adult oversight and reminders to ensure that the dog’s needs are met. Not only is a dog a living thing with its own needs and quirks and feelings, but it will always be your dependent. A dog will never outgrow his need for someone in your household to feed him, clean up after him, exercise him, groom him, and provide medical care for him. Dogs can experience vomiting or diarrhea or incontinence, just like humans. They can’t recognize potential dangers any better than a young child can. They’ll have vet appointments, just like you have medical appointments. If you adopt a young puppy, expect high energy, lots of chewing, some nipping, no manners and a tendency to be destructive if you’re not wearing him out with appropriate activities.

Different breeds require different levels of dedicated exercise, attention and grooming. They’ll also have different medical issues that that they are prone to suffer. Some breeds are easier to train than others. Some breeds are more likely to bark frequently compared to other breeds. Some breeds shed more than others. Dogs who have been bred for many generations for a specific purpose will exhibit certain behaviors dictated by that breeding. Mutts often have delightful personalities and can have a lower risk for some of the health problems purebreds have, but it’s still worth having some idea what mix a mutt has because that can clue you in to some of his particular quirks and needs.

Think about what qualities a dog absolutely has to have for you to enjoy having him as a pet, and what qualities are a dealbreaker. Be honest with yourself about what qualities you’re willing to compromise on.

Adopting a dog is a big commitment, involves another dependent moving into your home, and will serve as a life lesson for your children. If you make the right choices for your family, adopting a dog can bring years of humor, love and happiness to your family, or, if you decide that dog ownership isn’t for you, not adopting a dog on a whim will spare your family unhappiness, resentment and heartache.[/quote]

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