Your kids want a puppy. All your neighbors have dogs. It's the great American Dream (for children, anyway) to have a dog like Lassie or Rin Tin Tin.(guess I dated myself with that one)

However, if this is your first puppy, there are some things you need to know before your darling Son or Daughter comes in and says, Hey Dad! Look what followed me home, Can I Keep Him?

#1 - Dogs Take Time.

Puppies Take More Time. Having a new puppy is like having a 2-year-old. Until they are trained (see #2), they require a constant watchful eye. After they are trained, they still require supervision until they are older. Much older. If you can't entertain them all day, you may want to consider two dogs, a cat, or a turtle(well maybe not a turtle).
Point being, they need some thing, or someone to interact with.
#2 - Puppies Need Training.

And so do you your children.

When I was growing up, we always had a dog, and we were given the responsibility of the care and well being of our pet. With the help of our parents, who also grew up with dogs, we managed to keep our furry buddies fairly well trained. This knowledge came easy for us, as it was passed down though many generations of dog ownership.

Training your dog helps to teach them boundaries, thus making them more comfortable around humans. There are many different dog training programs and many professional dog trainers. However, just because someone has a business card doesn't mean they are a qualified trainer. If you have children, they need to take the classes with their puppies so they can learn how to interact with your new pet. Whether you train your dog yourself or find a professional, teaching your dog commands and socializing it is important.

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#3: Puppies Cost Money. Lots of Money.

Ok - this isn't unreasonable, but you need to be prepared to add your puppy into your budget. You will have many expenses, especially when you first get your new puppy. They need toys, bones, shots, registrations with the state, and don't forget the food, dog houses, collars, clothes (no really - it's a big business - you'll be tempted!) vet bills, and training (see #2). Dogs are one of the most expensive pets around. Most puppies are part of the family - and will cost you like part of the family. Don't go into this venture thinking they're cheap. Again I feel compelled to remind you: There is No Such Thing as a Free Dog!

#4 - Puppies Grow Into Dogs.

I know that's obvious - but you need to be sure you know how big your dog will be. If you have young children, your puppy may outweigh them within a year. Do the research so you know how big your cute little puppy will be when he's a dog.

If your pet is a mixed breed dog, look at the paws. Usually, a puppy will grow into their paws.

#5 - Dogs Need Exercise.

And people need exercise - so this can actually be an advantage if handled properly. Puppies need room to run and play. They need people to play with, and they need toys to play with. If you lead a very couch potato lifestyle, be sure you pick a dog breed that is low activity. The larger the dog, the more room and exercise they need. You will probably need to walk your dog several times a week. Be sure and plan that into your schedule now - or you may find your puppy running around the house all day without you. Owning a dog can be a very rewarding experience - even if this is your first puppy. Your dog will become one of the family and be a faithful companion for life. Be prepared for your new puppy, and it will be a great adventure for both of you.

Thanks for Reading,
Al PaPaGrizz Nelson