How To Know You're Ready To Get A Dog

Puppies are literally the greatest things on Earth, but knowing when you're ready to get a new dog can often be a little tricky. Yes, they will be there for you whenever you feel lonely and they are always so cuddly. Did I mention they are too cute to handle? But like babies, new dogs and puppies need a lot of attention and they are a lot of work.

My boyfriend and I have been wanting a puppy for a very long time. We are the type of couple that messages puppy GIFs and videos to each other randomly and always talk about the possibility of one day having one in the house. Essentially, instead of baby fever, we have puppy fever. It's not easy to admit, but I know that we don't have the time to own a dog right now. The thought of growing old with a puppy is enticing, but also, the idea of not having time to take care of it is stressful. The thing is, we know right now it's not the right time to have one, but when that time does come, we know that we will love the heck out of the puppy because we've been waiting so long to acquire one.

If you are having these thoughts like us, then maybe you need to evaluate your life to see if a puppy or new dog is a good fit. Here are six signs you're ready for a new furry friend.

1. You Have The Time To Train and Play

Puppies are a lot of work. While they are cute and super cuddly, they require a lot of training when they are very young. The time that you have is vital, because if a dog is not trained well enough, it could end really badly and create more chaos in the near future. There are plenty of ways to do this: Take them to training doggy academy, or personally train the dog yourself. Plus, puppies require a lot of attention. According to ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), puppies that are eight to 12 weeks old need to be fed four meals a day. It's basically like babysitting.

2. You Are Financially Ready

Even if you think you have enough to own a dog, you probably need more. With dogs, especially puppies, it's really important to have that extra cash in savings for any emergencies — it's really best to be safe than sorry. Aside from that, puppies need a lot of veterinarian visits and vaccinations. According to Pet Education, an expert pets website, it has been estimated that having a puppy can cost around $2,000 to $6,600 for the first year. And that really depends on the type of owner you want to be and what kind of dog you will have. If you have a good amount of that in your savings, then you are good to go.

3. Your Long-Term Goals Coincide With Having A Puppy

While getting a puppy now might sound like a good idea, you also have to think about the future, too. Getting and taking care of a puppy is like taking care of a baby that just doesn't grow up. It's always going to need your attention, and it's just not fair to the puppy if you think you are going to be constantly traveling or moving in the future. You want to make sure the puppy feels safe and secure with you at all times. For myself, I don't really know where my future holds. Everything is so exciting and new and that last thing I want to bring is a puppy that is just going to come for the ride and now feel comfortable. That puppy will be with you for just as long as that artisan pasta box will be sitting in the back of your pantry.

4. You Have The Patience

This is a big one. Dogs need a lot of patience. It takes time to train and nurture them and you have be understanding to that. According to the Mother Nature Network, chewing, teething and general destruction of the household will require most of your patience. Love those black pumps? Yeah, well so will your puppy when he/she chews them up. Not only will it take a lot of understanding, but a puppy could also teach you how to let things go. During this time, it might also be a good idea to puppy-proof the house. You know, for your own sanity.

5. Your Home Is Big Enough To House A Puppy

Your small 500-square-foot New York apartment might be able to handle a cute toy-size puppy, but when that thing grows to an adult size dog, well, that's different. Make sure that your house can actually accommodate a puppy comfortably. Treat the puppy how you would want to be treated. It deserves the same amount of love and respect that you do! Roam free, puppy. Roam free.

6. You Have A Stomach For It

This one is a little tough for me. I, personally, have a weak stomach when it comes to bodily functions. But, whether we (OK, I) like it or not, it's something that you have to deal with when you have a puppy, or a new animal of any kind. According to PetCare RX, there are plenty of signs to know when a puppy is not feeling great. It's always a good idea to make sure you do your research before you get a dog to prevent anything worse happening. To be completely prepared is probably one of the most valuable things you can do as a dog owner.

Having a puppy is one of the greatest feelings in the world. And even though it's tough and takes a lot of patience, it's really worth it.

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