7 Things for Moms to Know Before They Get a Dog

Dogs are more work than you might think. A lot of people underestimate just how needy dogs can be — they’re not as independent as cats or other pets. Getting a dog can be one of the most exciting moments in your life, especially when you think of all the fun times you’ll share. Just think about these things before you decide to get a dog in this season of life.

1. Dogs Aren’t a Lesson

Many parents choose to adopt dogs for their kids with the idea that the new furry family member will teach their children responsibility. They think that feeding a dog should be thought of as a “chore” for a child to complete — one that’s more fun than doing the dishes or picking up their toys — that can prepare them for responsibilities in the future. Every child is different, and not every kid will learn something from the family adopting a dog.

Not every child will respond well to taking care of an animal. Many children are too young to care for another living thing and may only want the “fun” parts of owning a dog. Depending on their age, a child may not understand how much food a dog gets and how to interact with them correctly without supervision. Ultimately, the responsibility will fall on you.

2. You Will Find Messes

If you adopt a puppy rather than an adult dog, you should know that some messes will be more frequent than others. A puppy’s “baby teeth” are lost at around six months old, meaning you may have to prepare yourself for the teething phase. To keep your sanity and promote healthy chewing, you can keep your puppy away from furniture by providing it with teething toys and plenty of bones and treats to chew on.

Dogs who are not housebroken are more likely to have accidents in the home. You can train your dog to use the bathroom inside, but depending on their age, they may not be able to hold it if you’re away for an extended period. You can start slow with potty training, and you may even use puppy pads or old newspapers to designate an emergency bathroom spot for when you’re away.

3. They’re Like Children

Dogs want to play. They want to spend time with you. In this regard, especially since you have to feed and bathe them, dogs are much like children. You’ll be adding another being who desires your attention and help throughout the day into your household. If you’re barely managing with the children you have now, a dog might not be the best fit for you right now. However, you can always revisit the idea when your kids are older and more independent.

4. How to Train Basic Commands

An untrained dog is an unhappy dog. By refusing or forgetting to train your dog, you have no control over it and can potentially endanger its life. It won’t listen to you when you tell it to do something, which could allow it to wander off and hurt itself. You need to prepare to teach your dog basic obedience at the very least — if it doesn’t know basic commands already.

Practicing daily and repeating training lessons can help your dog understand what you want from it. Practice makes perfect, and your pup is no different. Dogs inherently want to please their owners — so take advantage of your dog’s eagerness to learn and commit to a training session each day until it has the basics down.

5. You Will Be More Active

Dogs require a higher activity level than almost any other pet. If you live in a home with a yard, you may find that you have to let your dog out to run some energy off now and then. You should walk your dog daily — it helps the two of you get exercise, and your kids can come along and explore the world with your furry family member.

If you don’t have a yard, you’ll need to take your dog on more frequent walks. Teaching your pup how to behave on a leash is essential, too — you want to be sure that they’ll react well if they meet another dog. The more your dog gets used to its environment and surroundings, the more enjoyable your walks.

6. Dogs Are an Investment

Pups cost so much more than the price you pay a breeder, pet store, rescue or shelter for them. You may have to get your dog a checkup at your local veterinarian as soon as you bring it home. Vaccinations also cost a lot, and if your dog requires frequent grooming, you shouldn’t miss any appointments or risk damaging their coat.

Over its lifetime, the average dog costs its owners over $20,000. Still, that price tag counts for food, toys and a lifetime of love from your favorite canine. You should also consider the quality of items your dog receives from you. Your dog deserves the best, but you may be able to trim the budget in some areas to make dog ownership more affordable for your household.

7. Your Dog Is Your Best Friend

It’s impossible not to have a bond with an animal you spend over a decade with. Dogs are capable of unconditional love. They’ll always be there to pick you up when you’ve had a bad day and remind you just how much they love you. Between your children and your new furry friend, you’ll have a support team cheering you on through all of your peaks and valleys in life.

Think Carefully Before Getting a Dog

Decisions like this one shouldn’t be made on a whim. Thinking of getting a dog requires looking into your budget and seeing if you have room. Then, you should look into your personal life. Do you have the time to dedicate to a social, dependent animal? If everything lines up, you’ll be ready to bring a pup home and share your life with them.