Sam, my 12-year-old son, has been begging us to get him a dog for his birthday in May. Sam’s father and I are separated and torn on this decision. Sam is a very serious kid, but this would be his first “real” pet aside from a goldfish in kindergarten, and we didn’t grow up with any family dogs of our own. How do we know he is ready for such responsibility and what questions should we be asking ourselves to make sure we can give this dog a great life?
-Kelly
Dear Kelly (and Sam),
Welcoming a dog into your life is a big decision, and you never forget your first dog who was your own best friend. Dogs lend a beauty and joy to life that is hard to find anywhere else in the world.
I would suggest gathering everyone who will be involved and having a discussion about the possibility of adding a dog to both your households. The first questions you might ask are logistical; who will be the primary caretaker of the dog? If it is Sam, then what are his responsibilities? If Sam isn’t able to take care of the dog, then who is next in line? At which house will the dog spend most of their time? Does each house have a secure space for the dog to use the restroom and exercise in, or will you be relying on daily walks? What will you do if your families go on vacations at the same time? Do you have a dog sitter or a boarding facility in mind for such an occasion? Are there any other pets you have who need to be considered?
I usually follow up these questions with ones aimed at narrowing the reason for obtaining the dog, so as to have a better match between dog and boy.
What breed are you looking for? Are there any breed restrictions you need to be aware of? Does Sam want the dog to accompany him on outdoor activities and adventures, such as swimming, running, hiking or biking? Or is Sam into video games and Dungeons and Dragons and would prefer a dog to hang out on his bed while he plays?
What about the rest of the family involved? If you have a tiny car and a home filled with fragile antiques, then a calm, petite adult dog might be a good choice. If Grandma has severe allergies then a non-shedding breed might be a perfect option. If you own acres of farmland and love to explore the trails, then a high-energy, enthusiastic large breed could be a great fit.
Raising and training a puppy will require consistent attention and training-especially throughout the first year but will ensure your dog is only influenced by your family and the training you invest in them. An adult dog might give Sam more immediate, mature companionship, but you should always professionally temperament check and work closely with shelter and rescue organizations to ensure a great fit. Narrow down the age, breed and temperament you are looking for, and find a great fit for everyone involved.
My next set of questions I usually ask are financial. What is the budget for pet food, toys, grooming tools and accessories? What kind of training do you want to invest in? Puppy classes at a local facility, board and train in-state, or private in-home training? If you are looking for a specific breed, do you have the resources to invest in an ethical, responsible breeder who might live across the country? If you are looking to rescue a dog, are you prepared to work with an organization to pass their house check, interviews and adoption fees? What about veterinarian visits for vaccinations, spaying/neutering and emergency care?
Have you considered pet insurance? Licensing fees, boarding facilities and dog walkers? According to Fetch Pet Insurance, the upfront costs of owning a dog range from $1,050 to $4,480, and the estimated yearly costs can be up to $3,470. My own pet Labrador Boomer ran up a $5,000 vet bill a couple of years ago when he woofed down a pair of my underwear, and we have had to invest a tidy sum into keeping our backyard securely contained for my latchkey dog, Ragnar. The cost of purchasing and keeping a dog can surprise many families, so ask the hard questions and you will be prepared for any outcome!
Once everyone has decided on the breed, age and purpose of the dog, and come up with logistical and financial plans, then I recommend purchasing some books about dogs, their care and training. Ask friends to pet sit their dogs or become involved in the local shelters, rescue organizations and clubs. You can even volunteer to foster dogs in need of homes. These are all great ways to give Sam and your family experience revolving dogs, their care and charms. Welcoming a dog into your lives is a big step and the start of a wonderful adventure. I wish you the very best!
Kendall and Chandler Brown are owners of Custom K-9 Service Dogs, a dog training business serving Minden/Gardnerville, Carson and Reno. For information go to customk9servicedogs.com or email customk9servicedogs@gmail.com.