No matter where you’re from, Christmas is a time for togetherness, warmth, and family. Whether you dive headfirst into the holiday season or you take a comfortable back seat as the festivities unroll, we appreciate both sides of the spectrum. One thing most people can agree on, however, is the amazing feeling that both giving and receiving gifts brings. If you’ve had a dog on your holiday shopping list, we encourage it: there’s no better time to adopt a pup than the cold season, when many dogs are left out without shelter. However, here are some key things to consider before you bring a puppy home for Christmas.
- It’s a 15-year commitment. Puppies are the best animals, maybe ever. But puppies also grow into all types of dogs over time. When you’re thinking about your future puppy, also think about that same puppy as your future five-year-old and eventually your senior dog. Some dogs can live between 10-18 years, and the world record is rumored to be 29 years. Are you ready for a 29-year-old dog? Theoretically, the answer should be yes.
- It’s not cheap. Rover reports that dog owners spend roughly $26-$75 a month, and this doesn’t include all the things that come with a dog. Your new puppy might include adoption fees, require shots, and need to see the vet many times in the first few months, and this can tack on astronomical prices. This doesn’t even tap into the cost of kennels, vacation costs, food, medicine, insurance, training, etc.
- Prepare for some setbacks. You may be envisioning a perfect household pup, and while all dogs are perfect, they need a lot of love and guidance to learn the ropes of being a good boy. Some puppies have barking issues and some can’t stop peeing on the rug, and these are both things you need to be prepared to handle with patience. Having a new puppy will be trying, but you decide in the beginning to be committed to your dog and treat them with love and care their whole life.
- Your lifestyle will change. If you’re a late riser or a homebody, expect some changes to your daily routine. Dogs are famous for waking their owners early in the morning or even in the middle of the night, and getting a new puppy means you’ll get less sleep than you’re used to. Additionally, depending on the dog breed you choose, you might find yourself out of the house more often to keep up with your pup. If you have a skittish chihuahua, he might need short walks, whereas a new Bernese mountain dog really deserves longer hikes to tire them out.
- It’s not for everyone. A hard pill to swallow is that getting a puppy isn’t right for everyone. While you may be the most loving person in the world, it’s important to be financially committed to your pup as well as have enough time to take care of them. If you see your future dog spending a lot of time home alone or at a relative’s house, consider pushing back your puppy until you can truly afford to give them the best life possible. The good news is that there will always be puppies in need of homes, so whenever you know you’re ready is the right time.
