I know the feeling--all activities are cancelled, your calendar is wiped clean, vacations are being forgotten about, and your boredom is starting to get to you. While scrolling through Pinterest, Instagram, and Facebook, you see everyone uploading cute photos of their dogs, when suddenly it comes to you. The question that had been creeping up on you for the past 2 weeks: Should I get a dog now that I have so much free time? Obviously, as a dog owner I am completely biased into motivating you towards one side, however, I will try my best to give you all the pros and cons I have learned through reading other peoples’ stories & living my own!
The Pros
Man’s (or Woman’s) Best Friend
Needless to say, a dog is the perfect best friend and adventure buddy to have for pretty much any hobby you enjoy, from running and hiking to swimming and road trips. Our dogs are loyal to us and provide us with a companion. Pups are the best friend anyone could ask for!
Emotional & Health Benefits
So many studies have shown that when your pup is happy, you're happy. This is because just looking into a furry friend's eyes releases the love hormone, Oxytocin. Being around your pup 24/7 will boost your positivity, energy, and motivation! Your four-legged friend can also help you get in shape, and stay fit! Walking your dog around the block, or just taking them out to play fetch sure does help you get your steps in!
Social Life
Getting a dog can help not only socialize your dog to new places, and people, but also you! By going to dog parks, on a walk, or playing fetch outside, you can meet other fellow dog owners, passer-byers, and other cute fluffy friends!
Teaches Responsibility
If you have kids, a dog is a great addition to the family. Not only does it give your children a new friend, but it forces them to take care of a pet. In the long run, this teaches patience, time-management, hard-work, and much more!
The Cons
The Cost
Dogs cost a lot. From vet appointments and food to toys and just basic necessities (collar, crate, shampoo, etc.), it all adds up very quickly. However, the cost does vary based on the dogs size, breed, life expectancy, exercise needs, and health.
Some Questions You’ll Ask Yourself
Where do I leave Fido during vacation? Fido threw up, is this something to worry about? Can you take Fido on a walk? These are all questions that dog owners have to ask themselves at some point in time during having a dog. For some, thinking about another pet can be somewhat therapeutic and awarding, however, if you know this is a weaker area for you, make a calendar or notes to remind you of vet appointments, exercise time, etc.
Messier/Smellier Home
Depending on what type of breed you get, this may not be a big issue for you. Whether you plan on getting a trained, older dog or a puppy, you may face the terror of chewed shoes, accidents in the house, and ruined furniture. This is avoidable, but may require some time put into dog-proofing your house and training your new pup. As for a smellier home, this is dependent upon the breed, cleaning techniques, grooming habits, etc. that you implement. Again, this is avoidable, but just another thing that depends upon how much time you dedicate towards cleaning your home and dog.
Harder to Socialize During this Time
With dog parks, pet stores, fields, and some beaches still closed, it may be hard to socialize your new dog with strangers, other dogs, and new experiences. It is important to remember that socializing your dog is still crucial during these times, especially if you are getting a puppy! Don’t worry if you are stressed about this, as there are still many ways to get your dog out and introduced to new places. You can take them for a car ride, set up safe puppy play-dates, or simply just sit outside! Learn more about how to socialize your dog during quarantine here!
How Much Will You Spend on Your Dog in His Lifetime? | American Kennel Club. (n.d.) Retrieved May 22, 2020, from
20 SHORT HAIRED DOGS WITH LOW GROOMING NEEDS | PetCareRx (n.d.) Retrieved May 22, 2020, from
6 Dog Breeds That Require a Lot of Grooming, But Are Totally Worth It | American Kennel Club (n.d.) Retrieved May 22, 2020, from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/dog-breeds-that-require-a-lot-of-grooming/
Is Owning a Dog Right for You? The Pros and Cons of Dog Ownership | TLCme. (n.d.) Retrieved May 22, 2020, fromhttps://www.tlcme.com/parenting/is-owning-a-dog-right-for-you-the-pros-and-cons-of-dog-ownership
Comments