What you Absolutely Need to Know Before Adopting a Dog

There's something about the little face of a puppy... irresistible. It's so cute that it awakens a completely spontaneous and emotional side in us. Even if it means completely putting reason aside. But once the cute moment is over, bringing a pet home is a huge responsibility. And despite the fact that all the sources say so, few people fully realize it until it is “too” late. Here's what you need to understand most seriously before welcoming a new member of the four-legged family.

What You Need To Know Before Adopting a Dog

Photo by Tran Mau Tri Tam ✪ on Unsplash

Dogs versus Cats

Without entering into the debate on the superiority of one or the other (I have a copy of both specimens at home and I like them just as much), it is certain that the responsibility of one and the other is VERY different. Cats are much more independent, potty trained almost instantly can be left alone for long periods of time, etc. Dogs, especially if you adopt them at a young age, don't do any of that. They require a lot more time, patience, and energy, period. So if what you're looking for most in an animal is “a minimum of trouble,” it's pretty clear which of the two you should choose!

The time spent at home

Unlike cats who won't take too much offense to your long work hours or active social life, dogs are very dependent beings. It will be imperative to plan to be at home at regular times and to have time to devote to them. EACH DAY. GOOD WEATHER, BAD WEATHER. Although many dogs do, no pooch really benefits from spending 45 or more hours a week alone! And this is especially when they are young and in training, when their bladder does not allow them to hold back for 8, 9, or 10 hours of time. If you can't, say, come home during the day to go out or walk the dog, there are services that can do that for you. As well as dog daycares, for the most sociable/energetic doggies/who find it difficult to be alone! However, these services are not given and must be added to the overall canine budget (see the corresponding section below).

The walks

Photo by Mitchell Orr on Unsplash Although this will vary depending on the age, size, breed, and temperament of the dog, it is to be expected that a dog will need approximately 1 HOUR of walking/running/playing outside per day. Even when it's pouring rain. Even when it's -26. Once clean and adolescent, a dog will need to go out to relieve himself (even without necessarily taking a walk) a minimum of 4 to 6 times a day. Some dogs of larger and quite energetic breeds can also become good companions for your physical activities, for example jogging or hiking in the mountains. On the other hand, this training cannot usually begin before 1 year and must be done gradually. It is therefore not a “magic formula” to exhaust an overly nervous puppy!

The first year

A dog becomes an adult between 12 and 18 months. Before that, he will require… up to 20 times more time, energy, and difficulty than his compatriot aged 2 and over. Not twice, 20 times! To get through this famous first year, you have to prepare and… expect the worst. For real. Cleanliness alone will take between several weeks and several months, at the beginning. And those weeks of constantly picking up accidents everywhere, seem particularly long and debilitating. Potty training also includes the night: unless you have pee pads, you will probably have to take your doggie out at least once … which seems like an eternity. Some puppies are still not potty trained at night at 6 months. A large part of dog abandonment occurs during this first year of life, especially during the height of adolescence, that is to say between 5 and 9 months. Just like humans, the dog during this period may have completely disconcerting behaviors, which call into question what we thought we knew about him. For example, but not only: - Having a regression in cleanliness - Don't listen like before - Unresponsive to basic commands - Willfully challenging your authority - Eating your needs (or those of the cat!) - Running away when he's never shown that will before - Begin to bark furiously at passers-by, neighbors, or other dogs - Chew EVERYTHING in the house (shoes, cushions, cabinets, walls, stair railing, mosquito nets, furniture, carpets, sofas, etc.) - Make insane impulsive gestures, for example throwing yourself in front of a bus!

Activity level

Photo by Patrick Hendry on Unsplash One hour of walking does not correspond to the total time of activity, interaction and stimulation that a dog needs. And then it's an average: while some (especially very small and very large) dogs need little activity, some other high-energy breeds need a lot more than that! This is among others the case of the Huskies, whose breed was developed for the endurance of the specimens as well as their ability to pull heavy sleds at full speed for a whole day! The same goes for sheepdogs, like my border collie Bowie. This breed has been used for hundreds of years to herd sheep in Scotland over very rough terrain and in extreme weather conditions. So don't expect these frighteningly intuitive and intelligent dogs (a little too much, sometimes) to be able to make an automatic transition like apartment dogs who sleep all day! It is therefore essential to choose a dog for its level of activity and energy, AND NOT for its physique. This is probably the #1 mistake people make: falling in love with a dog because it physically matches their dream idea. If you are quite sedentary and very busy, it is obvious that you enjoy the experience more with a dog that is lower in the scale of energy and attention! Again, these are often very small dogs whose breed was specifically developed to keep humans company rather than a "job" at hand, e.g. Chihuahuas, Pugs, Yorkies, etc. But also very large "gentle giant" dogs such as Great Danes, Great Danes, Newfoundlands, etc. fall into this category. Once the puppy stage is over, many popular breeds like Labradors and Bernese Mountain Dogs also become much quieter and more accommodating!

Training

A dog is like a child; it does not educate itself. He will need to learn – and much sooner than most people think – not only the basic commands but also discipline, how to act in different situations, and socialization (with humans and dogs). Neglecting this demanding step often only invites problems for later, unfortunately. With rewards, most dogs train well, but it takes time and consistency, every day. Even when we are tired. Even when you have a ton of other things to do. Even when you don't want to. Dogs are ready for their first "obedience" classes from 8 or 9 weeks, in any case ideally before 16 weeks, before taking "bad folds".

Stolen Freedom

This is another thing that we do not realize right away, but adopting a dog immediately restricts freedom. Every time you leave, you have to make sure you get back in time to get it out. More than 5 to 7 improvised after the office, ever. And a lot of stress if something doesn't go as planned (unusual traffic jam, breakdown in public transport, etc.) Having a dog also means taking action every time you go away for a full day or more, even if it's only a day of skiing, for example. Since he cannot stay alone, you also have to find a pension or another place to take him when you go away on a weekend, on a business trip, during vacations, etc.

The costs

Photo by FLOUFFY on Unsplash Buying a dog is often expensive and sometimes even very expensive for some breeds! It can go for over $1,000. But that's nothing compared to the rest. - Veterinary fees: vaccines (depending on the weight of the animal but can correspond to several hundred dollars per year), routine examinations (from $60), follow-up appointments, sterilization (can also correspond to several hundred $ depending on the size of the dog, more expensive for a female), flea and tick treatments ($100) - Registration fees: $100 for a microchip, $30 for a medal depending on the municipality, etc. - Food: variable according to the weight, age, and specific conditions of the animal but can range between $25 and more than $100 per month. Some large puppies eat up to 8 cups of dry food a day! - Treats: Indispensable for training, they often cost more than you think! One can easily add $20 per month. - Toys: Variable according to the type of dog and not always equal from month to month, but to be taken into account all the same. - Bones and other things to chew: Also essential for many dogs who have an irrepressible need to chew – this can save many pieces of furniture and household items that you hold dear. Another $10-20 per month. - Basic equipment: A cushion, a good cage, an enclosure, a box or a transport bag, etc. $200 and up. - Specialized equipment: Depending on your needs… A harness or net for the car, a jogging leash, a backpack for hiking, etc. - The bags for the needs (and the pee pads): Not to be neglected either. - Leashes, harnesses, collars, and co: Because they grow, wear them out, break them or eat them: occasional but another expense. - Grooming: Depending on the size of the dog, between $40 and $90. - Obedience classes: Variable but at least $30 to $40 per session. - Occasional help from professionals for specific behavioral problems: A good investment, even if it's around $90 an hour. - A walk while you're at work: Between $10 and $20. - One day of daycare: Between $20 and $40 per day. - One-weekend boarding: Around $250. - Replacing what the dog broke: A few pairs of shoes is one thing. But a rug, a pouf, and two sofas are very expensive! And that's for a perfectly healthy dog! Except that most dogs end up developing medical problems during their lifetime. And that of course means additional costs, whether in specialized food, medication, surgery, following an accident, etc. It is not uncommon for owners to have to spend several thousand dollars at the vet. see also: The 15 most beautiful cats breed in the world

Pet shops, it's no!

Read the full article

Rex is a dog I’ve taken out many times. He is housed inside. In order to see him you need to know about him and request from the staff that you want to meet him. There are a number of dogs with the same predicament. Posted @withrepost • @animalia_bytichu Meet adoptable REX • 7 Years Old • Male • 63 lbs ID #A1869164 at North Central Shelter Let Rex brighten up your Sunday with his big smile! He is a goofy boy, fun, energetic, very happy to get his photos taken, he poses like a pro model. He allows pets and, lets us put on bandana, accepts treats and wags his tail the entire shoot. He knows sit and stay, treat and toy motivated. Rex was adopted from shelter years ago and now is back to shelter since July 2022. He is best to be the only dog and with a very dog savvy person. Please share this happy boy's story and find him a home! To meet REX, contact @northcentralshelter 3201 Lacy St, Los Angeles, CA 90031 888-452-7381 Wed & Fri/ 8am - 5pm: By Appointment ONLY Tue - Thu - Sat - Sun/ 11am - 5pm: Non-appointment; Walk-ins are welcome By booking photo sessions for your pets, you are helping us to help animals in need. A large part of our profit goes directly to helping animal shelters and rescues with these charity photoshoots. For more info about Adoption: animaliatichuphoto.com 📸@animalia_bytichu Bandana donated by @little_friends_and_co - - - #happypitties#happydog#adoptdontshop#adoptapitbull#pittysmile#pittycommittee#pittynation#dogmodel#animaliabytichu#dogphotoshoot#petphotography#petphotographer#pitbulllover#petstudio#brightsmile (at Friends of North Central Shelter - Los Angeles Animal Services) https://www.instagram.com/p/CkEmQVvyGXq/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

#Repost @shellydcohen with @repostsaveapp · · · #Repost @bla_nche_ with @get_repost ・・・ 🆘🆘🆘🆘😢😢😢😢 #Repost @dogmeetsfamily · · · Sweet Bella is on the 48 hour list, and she is a staff and volunteer favorite. She's a happy hippo who needs a forever home or a long term local foster/pledges/rescue asap! #Repost @downeyanimalcarecenter with @get_repost ・・・ Bella ~ #a5250297 🆘💔48 Hour Listed💔🆘 Don’t Let Her Die🙏 Bella is in desperate need of help ~ she was put on the dreaded 48 Hour List today 💔 Time is ticking away quickly⏳ Bella is a Super Fabulous Dog with so much Love to give💗 She is Loving,Smart,Fun,Silly,Kind, Playful,Beautiful.... She Loves Toys,Toys & more Toys 🧸 She Loves Cuddles,Belly Rubs, Scooby~Snacks,Walks, Sun Bathing, ~ She Really Loves Life....Everyone should have Bella’s Enthusiasm & Energy To Live Life to the Fullest! LOOK AT HER SMILE ~ YOU CAN SEE THE LOVE & HAPPINESS JUST WITH THAT SMILE 😃 The Jiggle in her Wiggle & her Neck Wrinkles Are Adorable💘 She Loves people so much, she likes calm dogs, & she has a gentle dainty play style🐶 Bella deserves so much...she deserves a nice soft bed, a spot on the couch next to you, toys, treats, belly rubs, cuddles, hugs, kisses, walks on the beach, rolling in the grass but most of all she deserves to Live & to be Loved by her very own family. She doesn’t deserve to die ~ we can’t let that happen!!! I’m begging & pleading for everyone’s help to save Beautiful Bella💕 Sharing is Caring Please Share🙏 Bella #a5250297 Female/Spayed Age: 6 Intake Date: 01-17-2019 If you can help Bella Please call the Shelter 24/7 (562)940-6898 & email: [email protected] ➡️Please check out Bella #a5250297 #loveapitbull #pittienation #pittiesofinstagram #pittylove #adoptapitbull #rescueapitbull #downeyanimalcarecenter #downeydogs #a5250297 #pickme #rescueme #shelterdogsrock #shelterdogsofinstagram #pitbullsarefamily #pitbullsarelove #pitbullsmile #betheirvoice❤️ #foster #adoptables #rescuedogs #dogs https://www.instagram.com/p/BwYC6KrgvxX/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=18xtsz7zhy5h

That’s right! #pitbullsofinstagram #adoptapup #👍 #adoptapitbull #justdoit https://www.instagram.com/p/BoJe9TeAAtQ/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=6qrfyqqc82t8

In honor of #NationalPitbullAwarenessDay I wanted to make everyone aware of how a wonderful boy named Oliver (@oliversworld1 ) has changed my life so profoundly and how gorgeous girl named Julia (@juliasamazinglife ) continues to bring love and joy to our home. If I had believed all of the false misconceptions and media hysteria about this breed, I would have missed out on the love of a lifetime. Everyone who had met Oliver and now Julia will attest to how brilliant and gentle they are. It's heartbreaking that shelters are full of pitbulls because people over breed them and owners don't research to specific needs of this active breed. My goal is to change the perception of the breed and to educate people on benefits of adopting from a shelter or rescue versus buying from a breeder. Please follow @oliversworld1 and @juliasamazinglife to see their lives chronicled daily. Your minds and hearts will be changed. #pitbull #pitbulls #pitbullsofinstagram #pitbullsofinsta #pitbulladvocate #pitbullove #pitbulladoption #adoptapitbull #mikeruizphotography #mikeruiz #awareness #nannydog #pitbullmisconceptions #banBSL (at Millstone Township) https://www.instagram.com/p/BpcBF1mHqpb/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1lax21td6drht

So handsome is this guy, we can't help but to fall in love with him. 😍😍😍. His name is Too and he is about 7 years old. He is lovable, loyal And love nothing more to live in a home again instead of in a kennel. He has different eye color because he suffered an eye injury spme time in his life but he seems okay and not in pain. Come meet this guy when you get the chance okay? 😘 We are open Tuesday - Sunday, our visiting hours are 1030am - 430pm About Toro Vaccinations up to date, spayed / neutered. Primary Color: Grey Secondary Color: White Weight: 71.2lbs Age: 7yrs 1mths 1wks Animal has been Neutered www.sgvhumane.org #sgvhs #sgvhumanesociety #adoptdontshop #sangabriel #templecity #rosemead #pet #pitbull #adoptapitbull #pitbullsarelovers #dog #amstaff #staffymix (at San Gabriel Valley Humane Society)

Share the love#pittbullsofinstagram #pittbulls #adoptapitbull #adoptapitrescue #pittbulllovers https://www.instagram.com/p/B-h-VpZFJJS/?igshid=m8dgl7w8d83y

11/5/17 @unitedhopeforanimals Please adopt marvelous Gideon, he has been at the shelter for way too long! He needs to be adopted ASAP! Gideon is a 3-year-old Pit Bull and Labrador Retriever Mix. He is an all around awesome dog. He is sporty, smart, and agreeable, with a huge smile and a friendly personality. We know he would love to go hiking, walking, or running in his new home. Gideon will be a wonderful new addition to any household. A5100765 Gideon Pit Bull/Labrador Retriever (at Los Angeles, California)

It’s never a normal day with Captain around💕 #adoptdontshop #adoptapitbull #pitbull

Reposted from @asociacion3pa - Nuestra preciosa bruxa sigue buscando adopcion, buena y cariñosa ❤️ #adopta #nocompres #noalmaltratoanimal #pppisgood #bruxa #pitbull #americanstandford #potencialmenteperfectos #loveanimals #adoptaamstaf #adoptapitbull #adoptamestizo [email protected]. . . @MascotaManias #mascotamanias #adoptaNOcompres #adopta - #regrann https://www.instagram.com/p/Bx0g6BUI6h5/?igshid=1wyb7pljxnpk7

#Repost @moreno_valley_shelter_animals ・・・ 🆘UPDATE: Trey is now the 6th longest resident and in danger. He is scheduled to go on euth list 4/19 per shelter 🆘 👉👉👉I HAVE ANOTHER VIDEO - SWIPE RIGHT 👉👉👉Meet Trey... What a friendly boy! Please go meet him today! 💙❤️♥️❤️💙URGENT NOW 💙❤️♥️❤️💙 TREY #A493583 (Moreno Valley, CA) Male, blue Pit Bull Terrier. The shelter thinks I am about 1 year. I weigh approximately 53.00 lbs. I have been at the shelter since Mar 14, 2019 and I may be available for adoption on Mar 21, 2019 at 12:21PM. http://petharbor.com/pet.asp?uaid=MRVL.A493583 Moreno Valley Animal Shelter 14041 Elsworth Street, Moreno Valley, CA 92553 951-413-3790 PUBLIC EMAIL/GENERAL INFO: [email protected] RESCUE EMAIL: [email protected] Open Tuesday - Saturday (closed Sunday, Monday and holidays) Tues.-Fri. 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. #adoptapit #adoptapitbull #adoptabull #morenovalley #adoptables #socaldogs #adoptadog #shelterdog #shelterdogs #pitbull #pitbulls #pitsofinstagram #californiadog #californiadogs #adoptabledogscalifornia https://www.instagram.com/p/BwcjnZ8AqI9/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1g44vihjer7d2

🆘UPDATE: Trey is now the 6th longest resident and in danger. He is scheduled to go on euth list 4/19 per shelter 🆘 👉👉👉I HAVE ANOTHER VIDEO - SWIPE RIGHT 👉👉👉Meet Trey... What a friendly boy! Please go meet him today! 💙❤️♥️❤️💙URGENT NOW 💙❤️♥️❤️💙 TREY #A493583 (Moreno Valley, CA) Male, blue Pit Bull Terrier. The shelter thinks I am about 1 year. I weigh approximately 53.00 lbs. I have been at the shelter since Mar 14, 2019 and I may be available for adoption on Mar 21, 2019 at 12:21PM. http://petharbor.com/pet.asp?uaid=MRVL.A493583 Moreno Valley Animal Shelter 14041 Elsworth Street, Moreno Valley, CA 92553 951-413-3790 PUBLIC EMAIL/GENERAL INFO: [email protected] RESCUE EMAIL: [email protected] Open Tuesday - Saturday (closed Sunday, Monday and holidays) Tues.-Fri. 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. #adoptapit #adoptapitbull #adoptabull #morenovalley #adoptables #socaldogs #adoptadog #shelterdog #shelterdogs #pitbull #pitbulls #pitsofinstagram #californiadog #californiadogs #adoptabledogscalifornia (at Friends of Moreno Valley Shelter Animals) https://www.instagram.com/p/BwVfcZ9AJPm/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1nt83eomvkbgm

Reposted from @standupforpitsfoundation - This precious low riding velvet hippo is out of time and will be euthanized. Please share him or if you’re able adopt him contact the shelter directly. Thank you. #Repost @downeyanimalcarecenter with @get_repost ・・・ 💔🚨Cabezon ~ Has found found himself on the “48 hour Medical List”🚨💔 Unfortunately Cabezon has been been on his second round of URI treatment💔this puts him at risk of not making it out of the shelter or into a home or rescue💔 Cabezon ~ #A5252750 Did anyone order a ridiculously short stack of Hubba Hubba Hunkiness? Cabezon is love at first sight ~ he jumps straight into your heart...no pause, no u~turn just full speed ahead into your heart ❤️ This little stocky velvet hippo is full of love, fun, playfulness, happiness & cuddles💘He loves to climb into your lap and just be hugged, kisses & snuggled! Cabezon is gentle, relaxed, kind, well behaved ~ he is just an Amazing Dog❤️ He loves to roll & low crawl in the grass, he is a seeker of belly rubs💘 Cabezon is a total favorite of volunteers & staff we are begging for help to save his life. Cabezon is in playgroup & good with big dogs. Hasn’t had a small dog assessment. Playgroup handlers describe Cabezon as ~ Social, Gentle & Goofy 🥰 Cabezon is young 3 year old in need of a forever home/rescue/long term committed foster! DM me if you can help or reach out to the shelter. 🛑REMINDER🛑Downey is the highest intake LA County Animal Shelter. 🚨ALL DOGS ARE CONSIDERED URGENT🚨 If you can help Please call the Shelter 24/7 (562)940-6898 & email: [email protected] DACC-Downey 11258 Garfield Ave Downey, CA 90242 562-940-6898 #downeyanimalcarecenter #betheirvoice #voiceforthevoiceless #pitties #pittiesofinstagram #pitbullsofinstagram #pittiesofinsta #pibbles #pibblesofinstagram #adoptdontshop #adoptapitbull #adoptdontshop #pittienation #shelterpitties #shelterdogsrock #shelterdogsofinstagram #velvethippo #pitbullsarefamily #saveashelterdog #fosterssavelives #rescuedogsofinstagram #pitbullsarelovers #standupforpits #adoptrescuefoster #adoptlove - #regrann https://www.instagram.com/p/BvUoVOkBbrb/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=ozj7badhgr6f

Posted @withrepost • @petrescuehelpers Posted @withrepost • @shelterdogs4life 🚨🚨Out Of Time🚨🚨 Big Handsome Spike is out of time at the Shelter ~ He needs to be Shared like Crazy! His Life Matters ~ please swipe on Spikes ID #a5307894 Please Share he might be gone tomorrow 💔 ••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Posted @withrepost • @desidesi134 🛑 48 HOUR RESCUE NOTICE Passed Days Ago. 🔴Start Sharing... ➡️ Spike Needs A safe plan in place now. Bold and the Beautiful Spike HE’S A LADIES MAN ❤ Put his id in the search and check out his other pictures. @shelterdogs4life #rescue #pittielove #DowneyDogs #adoptable #hubbahubba #chickmagnet #shelterlove #petoftheweek #petoftheday #petoftheweek Shelter Plea ⬇️ 48 HOUR RESCUE NOTICE ** OK FOR PUBLIC ADOPTION** QUESTIONS CAN BE ANSWERED 24/7 AT (562) 940-6898 IF YOU HAVE PLACEMENT: PLEASE EMAIL DOWNEY ANIMAL CARE CENTER STAFF Contact Email for all Rescue placement: [email protected] Spike #A5307894 6yr. Neutered Gry Pit bull 88 lbs. Stray 08/07/19 SPIKE MELLOW AND SOCIAL SPIKE HE’S LADIES MAN **A BIG HANDSOME FELLOW ** HE PREFERS TO PLAY WITH OTHER CALM FEMALE DOGS READY FOR A LOVING HOME WITH OLDER CHILDREN AGES MIDDLE SCHOOL AND UP WHERE HE COULD SHINE BEST Location: Downey ACC 11258 Garfield Avenue Downey, CA 90242 ☎️Call 562-940-6898 (24 Hour Call Center) or Email: [email protected] #funnydogs #happydogs #pitbullsarefamily #pitbulllove #adoptapitbull #shelterdogsrock #shelterdogsofinstagram #adoptashelterpet #sheltertreasure #pitbullsofinstagram #adoptashelterpitbull #dogs #adoptlocal #savealifeadopt #dogsinneed #dogs #betheirvoice #pickme #imagooddog #dogslivesmatter https://www.instagram.com/p/B4KpcEpgIPG/?igshid=1iodrc303j3g8

Meet Gia.  Gia is available for adoption at Friends to the Forlorn Pitbull Rescue in Georgia.  My pit bull paintings help promote the most special, beautiful residents.  A portion of the sales go directly back to FTTFPBR. If you are interested in adoption, fostering, or donating to the cause, please visit www.friendstotheforlorn.org for more information.  

Gia, 11″ x 14″, watercolor and mixed media /  Purchasing Inquiries: [email protected]

On November 22nd, 2014, I thought I'd see for myself if Blond's really did have more fun. It's a myth. As a black pitbull, I probably had the most fun of anyone I know. #messagefromheaven #oliversworld #adoptdontshop #pitbullsofinstagram #pitbull #pitbulls #savethedogs #adoptapitbull #pitbullsaresweet #sweetpitbull #ilovemypittie https://www.instagram.com/p/Bo7HWTMnMvw/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=4b6rqask4owi