Everyone wants a puppy at some point in their life! How could you not want one of the best family dogs to call your own? It is hard to not want a sweet, snuggly and cuddly companion that is completely loyal to you at all times! Are you considering adding a puppy to your family? If so, we have compiled the ultimate guide to help you make the decision of whether or not your family is ready to take on the responsibility of a dog.
Making The Decision To Add A Dog To Your Family
As with any of your life choices, making the decision to add a puppy to your family is a huge lifestyle change. Whether you have had a puppy before or this will be your first, many factors should be considered while contemplating the situation.
- Do you have the necessary time to dedicate to training a puppy and help it to adjust to life within your home?
- Which breeds make the best family dogs?
- Will you be able to provide the pup allotted space within your home for them to have as their own?
- If you have other animals are they friendly?
- Can you afford to take on another family member’s expenses?
Puppies require vaccinations and regular vet care early on. Factor in the cost of food, training treats, equipment such as bedding, gates, etc., and toys.
Benefits Of Owning A Dog
Chances are, if you are considering adding a puppy to your family, your list of pros far outweighs the cons. What will a puppy provide your family? Think of all the lessons in responsibility this will teach your children! A toddler can enjoy naming and feeding the puppy while older children can be responsible for walking and training the pup. You must also think about what your family has to offer that will ultimately better the puppy’s life. Ample time, patience, and attention should be atop of this list. As with any relationship, there should be a balance of give and take with your new puppy. After all, they will be your new family member!
Research The Dog Breeds You Are Considering
Do your research and then do some more research when contemplating adding one of the best family dogs to your crew! Seriously. Be certain to research your top breed choices and the relevant haircare, exercise requirements, intelligence level, etc.
Read more: 6 Best Dogs For Kids And Families
If your family is not at all active you will not want to add a dog to your family that requires daily exercise. If you have family members with allergies and sensitivities you will want to avoid breeds that shed a lot. If you are a neat freak you will want to have a dog breed with hair rather than fur, such as a Shih Tzu or Labradoodle.
Research The Breeders / Rescue Agencies You Are Considering
The last thing you want is an unwell puppy joining your family when you think you are getting one of the best family dogs. Sometimes the best family dogs are hard to find. Many puppies in stores and breeding facilities are not properly cared for and this could cause a heartbreaking situation for your family. Be sure to research the breeder or rescue agency you are considering.
TIP: DO NOT jump on the first puppy you see without doing ample research first. Although you may have your heart set on a pup right away, it is very important to be certain they are the proper fit for your family.
Read online reviews, follow their social media pages for a bit, and call to speak with the agency or breeder. Set up a meeting to see their facility and be certain the animals are well cared for and content.
Read more: 5 Things To Consider Before Adopting A Pet
As Hard As It Is Take Your Time In Making The Decision
Sifting through all of the available best family dogs can be time-consuming. That is actually ideal. You want to be certain you are making the absolute best decision for your family as well as the puppy. This is a huge decision.
Establish A Care Plan
Prior to bringing one of the best family dogs home, you must decide who will be responsible for its care. This includes, but is not limited to, feeding, training, taking outside, playing with, and taking him/her the vet. Your family’s care plan should also include a backup plan. Who will take over the responsibility is someone is sick or away for the night?
TIP: A responsibility chart is a great way to track chores for children.
Your New Puppy Will Need His / Her Own Space
Where will your new little love sleep? Establish an area within your home that they can call their own. You should keep the puppy’s bed in the same place so the dog feels a sense of security and familiarity. They need their own space just as any family member does. Providing comfort and security helps all dogs become one of the best family dogs.
Read more: New Puppy Checklist
Best Family Dogs
Research proves that Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers are amongst the best family dogs. Their calm and loving demeanor paired with their trainability places them as some of the best family dogs. The loyalty both breeds show their owners is unmatched. Be prepared to brush them often. Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers shed a lot. The love they give will far outweigh the brushing! Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, and Pugs also rank within the category of best family dogs. Smaller and more laid back, these dogs are also loyal and docile.
Include your new puppy in all you do! Holiday cards are a super fun way to include your family dog. Many places are becoming more and more pet-friendly. Since you already established the fact that you have ample time to spend with your puppy, you will enjoy acclimating them to their new life within your family.
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