Reasons not to adopt a dog
Reasons for getting a dog are very important. Ask yourself why would you want it. If you do it because that breed is expensive, rare, on trend – give up the idea. A dog is not a status symbol. If you do it because it has pretty colours, shape, and you wish to dress it up or take it to coffee shops and clubs – give up the idea. A dog is not a puppet, a doll, a toy, fashion accessory, child. If you do it because it is strong and will make you look tough – give up the idea. A dog is not a weapon or a mean to make you appear dangerous. A dog is a living being with strong feelings and needs that are different from human.
Important preconditions when adopting a dog
1. Dog temper/energy – maybe most important factor is fitting dog's energy, the one that matches yours. If you tend to be in motion, energetic dog may fit you. If you are more on the passive side, a dog alike will fit you and clockwise. On the other hand, strong breeds do not fit everyone and they can very easily turn into very dangerous dogs. Also, do not forget your age. A cub could be too much for an older person. Mature dogs are ideal for humans who do not have much space and time for walks or even for someone who does not have children in the house, such as singles or a childless couple... Further, it is very possible that mature dogs are already taught not to relieve themselves indoors. What is more satisfactory is that mature dogs usually get picked last. When adopting, take in consideration sex of the dog. Females are commonly more calm, while males are usually more dominant and much more prone to getting into a fight.
2. Commitment to a dog – if you acquire a dog, you must accept responsibility for every aspect of its life as long as it lives. A dog brings much joy into one's life but it also brings a huge obligation. Physical activity is crucial, so you must find time for at least two walks per day, while three are preferred. How long is the walk must fit the dog, but most of them need one and a half hour per day at least. While the dog is a cub, due to its weaker bladder, it should go out five times. If you keep it in yard it does not compensate the walk. Strong and energetic dogs such as Pit Bull, Rottweiler, Malinois, Boxer, Dogo Argentino, Greyhound... need more than four hours of physical activity every day.
It is necessary to provide the dog with regular and quality food and water and descent space to live, whether indoors or outdoors. A visit to a vet is required, for regular vaccination and basic check-up and probable special examinations if there is such a need.
3. Responsibility – proper upbringing is important in order that the dog does not develop behavioural problems and becomes a danger to other dogs or humans.