Dog owners, what advice and tips would you give to someone considering getting a dog?

Question

Particularly advice and tips regarding medium-large dogs.

b_lova · Accepted Answer

That they need to find a dog that fits their personality and lifestyle. I once wanted a Jack Russell Terrier. I didn't do research to know how energetic they were before I got one and at the time I was busy in getting started in my career so I didn't have time to spend with such an energetic breed. Sadly he spent most of his time locked in a crate because he would tear my place up out of boredom while I was at work. Had I gotten a more laid back dog we would have been best buds.

Dogs need to walk with their owner once at minimum once a week preferably daily because as pack animals walking is a social experience that helps them mentally become a part of the family.

Also, get the dog fixed while they are young unless you plan to breed them otherwise they may build habits you don't like, like marking up your house.

Finally there is no substitute for good dog training which means that the dog owner has to be willing to be trained how to train the dog. Sending a dog to a dog trainer and expecting the dog to keep that training is a waste of money.

As a sidenote, and this is just a personal opinion, please don't get a medium to large breed if you live in an apartment or condo. Dogs need space to roam and be a dog.

JackCarter · Accepted Answer

Well, there are two types based on what you want in your dog
All kinds of dog would love you no matter what

We have guard dogs, who are really friendly with you and family but won't be easily friends with new comers and would bark the hell out of your friends or family coming to your home

Then we have the lovely friendly dogs, they just get along well with anybody and loves a rub from anyone, even robbers/intruders LOL

Another thing is to research well about the dog, say if you are getting a husky ( Siberian) , they find it real hard if it's hot where you live..
So research well to confirm there would be no complications arising ykwis...

GoodGuyBreakingBad · Answer

Hi there, my opinions on getting a dog, be careful getting any puppy from these places that sell them because when they won't quote a price to you over the phone that is red flags also a humane society or no kill shelters have some puppies or young dogs but then again watch for red flags after all, you don't want a sick puppy or sick young dog always ask the health of the parents of the dog or puppy, myself I would do a background check on the breeders or mixed breeders, I hope my information is helpful to you and trust me I had plenty of dogs I know how to help you somewhat.

SnowedIn · Answer

Have the money to invest in training Have the space for the dog to run and play Have the time for the walks and the work Finally, imagine the worst scenario: it's February, icy outside, cold rain/sleet mix, and the dog needs a walk and you're curled in bed. You have to walk the dog. If you're even remotely unwilling, you're not ready for the dog.

Kinkyhubby · Answer

It's a full time commitment. Your taking an animal life into your hands, just don't abandoned at a shelter. The dog won't understand why, you left him there. They have feels too. I have helped foster many dogs, and I hate how people just drop their pets off because they dust don't want to be bother with them, or didn't do enough research on the breed of dog they wanted. They just bought a puppy that was cute. Also adopt a dog. So many dogs are in kill shelters looking for forever homes.