Buying a Dog - Step Eight: Some Quick Thoughts

HOW MUCH DOES A PUPPY COST 
This is not the time to hunt for a bargain. Your new puppy will be a member of your family for his lifetime, so you'll want to make a wise investment. 


 CAN YOU AFFORD A PUPPY? 
The purchase price of your puppy is not the only cost you have to consider. Be aware that the puppy you bring home will need proper care: food, health care, (a dog needs annual shots). Your puppy will also need little things like a collar with identification, a bowl, and a leash. Evaluate your budget; ask yourself if you really can afford a dog. Dog Ownership = Responsibility. 

Being a responsible owner means considering your dog's lifelong health care needs, whether for preventive care or for unexpected accidents, injuries and illnesses that could happen at any time, however well you look after your dog. It is sensible to consider planning for these. 


 CARING FOR YOUR DOG 
All dogs must be cared for daily. This means proper diet, exercise, grooming and veterinary attention. There are many excellent guides on all facets of dog care (i.e. online search, books etc.). 

Do not attempt to be your own veterinarian! All dogs should be regularly examined by a veterinarian and inoculated against the major infectious canine diseases. Pet health insurance offers options for coverage toward these essential items, as well as toward preventative costs. 


 YOUR DOG AND YOUR NEIGHBORS 
All dog owners must be aware of their responsibilities to their neighbours, both those who live in the area immediately around their residence and their neighbours in the broader sense of the community as a whole. Dogs, for all the pleasure they are, can be a nuisance to your neighbours if not trained. Remember, excessive barking can be annoying. And, always keep your dog on a leash or inside a fenced yard when exercising. Remember to pick up after your dog. Forestall problems for yourself and your dog and all dog lovers by being a good neighbour. 


 OBEDIENCE TRAINING FOR EVERYONE 
One way to make your dog a good neighbour is through obedience training. A poorly behaved dog is a problem for everyone. Nothing is more frustrating than attempting to corral a dog that will not "come" when you call. A well trained dog is not only a pleasure to own, he is a goodwill ambassador for the entire canine community. A well-behaved dog is the result of the dog's owner being willing to work with the dog regularly in a systematic manner. Obedience classes are available in most communities. Time spent training your dog is time well spent.

 SOURCES
  
 [1] "Buzz Feed Animals" 

 [2] "American Kennel Club" 

 [3] "Bustle" 

 [4] "Pet Md" 
 
 [5] "Dog Conspiracy"