Choosing to welcome a dog into your home is a rewarding decision that comes with significant commitment and responsibilities. At Jordan Dog Training, we’re dedicated to ensuring prospective dog owners are well-prepared for the journey of pet ownership. Below are twenty important considerations to make before you decide to have a dog join your family.
Keep the checklist handy
Download the 20 things to consider factsheet (PDF)
Your time, budget and family
1. Time Commitment
Dogs require daily care, including walks, playtime, feeding, and companionship. Ensure you have the time to devote to these essential activities.
2. Financial Responsibility
Be prepared for the ongoing costs associated with dog ownership, such as food, veterinary care, grooming, training, and insurance, as well as unexpected expenses.
3. Lifestyle Compatibility
Select a dog breed that fits well with your lifestyle, considering your living space, activity level, and the breed’s specific needs.
4. Long-Term Commitment
Dogs can live for many years. Consider your future plans to ensure you can provide a forever home throughout the dog’s life.
5. Family Agreement
Ensure all family members are on board with the decision to bring a dog into your home and understand the responsibilities that accompany pet ownership.
Daily care and routines
6. Training and Socialisation
Plan for patient, reward-based training and positive experiences suited to your dog. For a young puppy, our Brisbane Puppy School can help you build those foundations.
7. Home Safety
Dog-proof your home to create a safe environment for your new pet, removing hazards and securing dangerous items.
8. Health Care
Prepare to meet your dog’s health care needs, including regular veterinary visits and emergency care.
9. Travel and Holiday Arrangements
Plan for your dog’s care when you travel or go on holiday, considering pet-friendly accommodation or reliable pet-sitting services.
10. Social Life Impact
Consider how your social activities will accommodate your dog’s need for companionship and attention.
Your dog’s needs and your home
11. Breed-Specific Needs
Research dog breeds thoroughly to find one that matches your lifestyle, including the breed’s temperament, exercise needs, and health considerations.
12. Space Requirements
Ensure your home and yard are suitable for a dog to live comfortably and safely.
13. Legal Responsibilities
Familiarise yourself with local laws regarding dog ownership, including registration requirements and lead rules.
14. Emergency Preparedness
Have an emergency plan that includes your dog, ensuring their safety during unexpected situations.
15. Exercise Needs
Ensure you can provide daily exercise to match the needs of the dog breed you are considering.
Health, behaviour and lifelong care
16. Grooming Requirements
Be prepared to meet the grooming needs of your chosen breed, including regular brushing, bathing, and professional grooming services.
17. Dietary Needs
Provide a balanced and nutritious diet suitable for your dog’s age, size, and health requirements.
18. Behavioural Challenges
Be ready to manage any behavioural challenges with patience, consistent training, and possibly the assistance of a professional dog trainer.
19. Impact on Other Pets
Consider the needs of your existing pets. Plan gradual introductions, separate safe spaces and supervision. Not every combination of animals will be a suitable match.
20. The Right Reasons and Emotional Well-being
Adopt a dog for the right reasons, focusing on companionship and a commitment to providing a loving, lifelong home. Recognise that dogs are sentient beings requiring love, attention, and care. Addressing their physical and emotional needs is essential to prevent issues related to neglect, such as loneliness and behavioural problems.
Choosing the Right Breed and the Value of Fostering
Ensure the breed you are considering is suitable for your lifestyle, home, yard, and future. If fostering appeals to you, speak with a reputable rescue about its expectations and support. Fostering is a care commitment in its own right, so make sure the arrangement suits your household and the dog.
Engaging With a Community of Dog Owners
Joining a community of dog owners can provide support, advice, and socialisation opportunities for you and your dog. It emphasises the importance of understanding your dog’s psychological needs and the positive impact of a supportive, engaged pet community.
By considering these points, you’re taking a responsible step towards dog ownership. Jordan Dog Training is here to support you with advice, training, and resources to help you and your new companion enjoy a fulfilling life together. Welcome to the enriching journey of dog ownership!
Help before your dog comes home
Our Puppy Set Up sessions can help you prepare your home and plan those early routines. For advice about choosing a suitable training option, contact Jordan Dog Training.
Justin Jordan is a dog behaviourist and the founder of Jordan Dog Training, a family-owned Brisbane business. With more than 35 years of experience in the pet industry, Justin and his team help families with puppy training, everyday manners and behaviour concerns.
