jrenter said:
I'm just looking for types of dogs I'd maybe like to someday own. I'd like to someday own a black lab and/or a golden retriever. I love those types of dogs, even with their health risks when they're older.
Here are just a few questions for you to answer
.
Ask Yourself....
How much time do I have to exercise a pet every day? [a border collie wouldn't work for someone who can walk the dog for only a few minutes every day. Pets also need mental stimulation!]
How much time do I have to groom a pet every day? [a lab would not work for someone who cannot groom at least monthly]
How much time do I have to clean up after a pet every day? [puppies and kittens make lots of mess! Certain breeds do, too!]
How much time do I have to train a pet every day? [all pets need to be trained, some more than other, and some breeds more than others too. Terrier dogs need lots of training to be well-behaved]
How much money can I spend on veterinary care every year? [for three dogs, my family spends $4,000 to $5,000 a year. The cost of veterinary care is usually based on the supplies used and time spent. Veterinary care for your chihuahua can and probably will cost as much as veterinary care for your friend's great dane]
How much money can I spend on general supplies (toys, leashes and collars, etc.) every few months? [puppies and kittens need lots of toys to play with. Collars and identification tags are important for boths cats and dogs, and dogs should be exercised daily]
How much money can I spend on food every month? [it can cost often over $50]
Can I enroll in a training class? [training classes are a good idea for certain breeds of dogs and they're good for socializing puppies]
How many hours would the pet be spending alone every day? [don't leave your pet alone for long periods of time!
If more than 6-8 hours, can I hire someone to walk the dog or feed the cat? [you could hire a trustworthy neighborhood kid to walk Fido while you work, or to feed Kitty when you're out late]
Do I travel frequently? [pets and frequent travelers most often do not mix]
Are there any young children around? [certain breeds like terrier dogs are generally not good with small children]
Are there other pets? [always introduce pets on neutral territory, and know your pets. For example, pit bulls are dog aggressive and cannot be left unsupervised with other animals]
Are there elderly humans around? [hyper animals and elderly people are usually not good matches]