Puppies hold a special place in our hearts. They’re cute, innocent fluffiness is more than enough to win over even the most hardened individuals. If you have become smitten with the thought of bringing home a little bundle of fur, but are still on the fence, we want to help.
We have put together the top 5 pros and cons to help you
decide if getting a Fido for the family is the right decision.
Pros
Besides being cute and adorable, here are five more reasons
to get a puppy if you (or your partner) aren’t quite convinced:
Less stress – The affection given by dogs
has been shown to reduce blood pressure and are commonly seen comforting
children, seniors, and military veterans.
Feel better – When interacting with your
dog, your body releases the hormone serotonin, which is responsible for making
us feel happy.
Stay active – Dogs need exercise and when
you participate with them, you too will benefit from the activity both mentally
and physically.
Live longer – Studies show people who own
dogs are more likely to live one year longer than those who do not own a dog.
Make friends – Owning a dog will get you
out and about. Between daily walks, grooming visits, and the vet, pups are a
natural way to break the ice with others.
Cons
Before you run down to the shelter on a whim, take the time
to research the breeds that may fit best for you and your family, along with
the following considerations:
Not home – Dogs require a lot of
attention. If you work long days or travel often, you may not be able to give
all the love your new puppy needs and deserves.
You move – Jobs requiring you to move
from city to city can be a strain on your dog. Residences may restrict breed
types and size, outdoor activity may be limited, and you will be changing
veterinarians with every move.
Tight budget – The cost of owning a dog
is often overlooked. Considering the cost of food, flea medicine, toys, and
regular (and emergency) veterinarian trips, owning a dog will make a dent in
your monthly budget.
Little patience – Puppies don’t come with
instructions. You will need time and patience to properly train your dog so
both of you can enjoy a happy life together.
Dog as a present – Many of the dogs you
find at the shelter are those that were given as a gift to someone. Never give
a dog as a gift unless the receiving party is well prepared and ready to take
on the responsibility.
If you are ready to take the plunge with a new puppy, make sure your home is ready ahead of time. Prepare a sleeping area, eating station, and a runner (potty area) for him. And then enjoy the love and affection of man’s best friend!