Will a New Puppy Make Your Relationship Go to the Dogs?
It’s that time. You and your partner want to get a dog together. You’re both psyched about the idea of having a furry little creature that the both of you can share and love. Maybe you’ve been contemplating it for a while. But are you really ready to make a big commitment together?
I think dogs can be compared to babies: they need a lot of attention and won’t ever move out. Though dogs are the most loving, loyal creatures one could ever be lucky enough to have, their lives are affected as much as yours will be by being in your home. Dogs are living, breathing animals with feelings too. You need to be prepared to take on all the responsibilities; if not, it could cause tension in the relationship. So how can you decide that you’re ready to add a dog to your family? There are several things to consider while finalizing your decision.
The responsibility of an animal begins with having enough time to properly train and take care of the dog; puppies, especially, need a lot more time. How often will you be home? Is it a sufficient amount of time for the dog’s needs? The obvious responsibilities of giving time, walking, feeding, and playing with the dog need to be decided who will do what and when. You will need to talk about what your schedule’s look like so
that the splitting of chores is mutually decided upon. Also consider what happens when neither of you are available. Will there be an upcoming out-of-town event coming up? Who will watch it then? If you clear up these decisions prior to bringing your new pet home, it will alleviate any potential tension for you, your partner, and the dog.
Next, it would be good to consider your financial situation. The dog could get sick at any time and could potentially cost a lot of money. You don’t want to find yourself in a situation where you consider giving your dog up because you cant afford it’s bills. Aside from checkups, shots, and potentially being sick, your pup could get into other costly situations. My pug, Odie is so mischievous. I came home to find a box torn apart on the floor and Odie sitting far away from the scene, head low, looking at me with pleading eyes. Turns out he had gotten into chicken bones so that was a 2 a.m. vet visit for $300. Anything can happen, so discuss how the unexpected expenses would be covered.
Considering the length of time you’ve been with each other should be another obvious factor. The longer you’ve been together, the better the chances that having a dog will be beneficial for everyone. With that in mind, if (heaven forbid) you and your partner split – who would be the caretaker for the dog? The situation may never happen, but the dog’s life needs to be considered too. Do you plan on relocating in the future? What if your next place doesn’t allow pets? It’s not fair to do that to the dog, considering they have no say in the matter.
Last but not least: children. If you have a child, please consider if there is enough time for both the baby and the dog. How will the dog will alter the current family dynamics? The younger the child, the more challenging it is to balance a dog’s, child’s and your needs. I’m not saying to never, ever get a dog if you already have children, just know the challenges that come with it before doing so.
Dogs are phenomenal creatures that have so much love to give. So when it’s that time where you both want to get a dog, communication and careful consideration are essential in making a happy home for you and your new furry love.
