How to Pick a Dog for Your Lifestyle

By Taylor Martinerin

When deciding what kind of dog to get, the lifestyle you lead should be factored into the process of selecting a dog. It is important to take every aspect into consideration so that you do not make the wrong choice. Your lifestyle really needs to be taken into consideration when picking out a dog.

The first thing to consider is how much time you have available. You need to have time to take care of a dog. Those who already lack free time need to seriously reconsider getting a dog, since a new pet takes up a serious time commitment and might be more work than you first realize. It would be classified as abuse if you just left your dog home alone all the time. If you have roommates that live with you that would be different because then you could have them take care of the dog while you are gone.

Another aspect of your lifestyle you should look at is room. Larger dogs require larger areas. Big dogs need more space to play than smaller dogs. It would be very hard to keep a large dog inside an apartment that is small. There would be no room for the dog to run and play, as most apartments rarely have back yards. Though it might be possible to keep a large dog happy with frequent walks, it really might be better to just select a dog more appropriate to the space you have available.

If you decide you aren't really set up for owning a dog, try volunteering at the local dog shelter. More volunteers are almost always welcome to help care for the animals there. Later on in life, when you can properly take care of one, you can get a dog that will suit your lifestyle.

Please don't just get a dog because it's the thing to do. If you even think that you might not have time to own a dog, consider the issue very carefully before proceeding. - 29895

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