Dogs have been known as man's best friend for decades. Owning a dog can be a positive, enjoyable experience for the entire family. Keep in mind however, that the decision to own a dog is an important one that should not be taken lightly. A dog is not just a fun diversion or entertaining gift. Owning a dog requires a commitment from you that will last the lifetime of the dog. The responsibilities of owning a dog and the joys of owning a dog hold an equal place of importance. If you are considering bringing a dog into your family, here are some important considerations for you to keep in mind.

A dog is an important member of the family. If you live in a city, you will need to devote a lot of time to walking the dog, ensuring that the dog gets plenty of exercise and fresh air, and you will most likely be taking your dog along on family excursions and trips. If you live in a country setting, you will need to ensure the safety of your dog and protect the dog from the hazards that come from a rural setting. Holidays and special occasions will include the dog and you may even find yourself including the dog in family portraits and gift giving occasions.

Dogs bring companionship and joy to any family. The time and effort you spend caring for your dog will be returned to you in the form of the lifelong loyalty and friendship that you will receive from your dog. The dog will provide you with a friend to talk to, be an entertaining companion, and can also provide a sense of security and protection for your family. Individuals who are confined to their home or the elderly will find great joy in owning a dog and the problem of loneliness will be greatly reduced.

Because you will spend a lot of time caring for your dog in the form of walks and playtime, a dog can be a big health benefit for the owner. You may find yourself exercising more than you ever have before, and talking to your dog is a great way to reduce stress and anxiety. Owning a dog is beneficial to you and your family and the dog will be forever loyal and grateful for the time you invest in its care.

As unlikely as it may seem, owning a dog can introduce you to new friends that last a lifetime. Walking your dog, training classes, and romps through the park are great ways to come in contact with others who share your interests and love of dogs. You can be certain that your dog will bring you joy in your private life and introduce you to other dogs lovers as well.

Owning a dog can be equated to raising a child. You must be a responsible parent to your dog just as you would to a child. You can rest assured that being a responsible, loving dog owner will bring you many benefits, the most important of which is the trust and friendship of a pet who will love you unconditionally for its entire life. Owning a dog is a big responsibility and can even be costly when you factor in trips to the vet, having the dog groomed, and taking care of unexpected medical expenses. The hardships involved in dog ownership are well worth your time and money. You will never find a more loyal, devoted friend than a dog who loves you unconditionally.

Keith Kingston is a professional web publisher, offering information on puppy names and boxer dogs

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" Adopting A Dog
By Russell Savige

You know what it's like. You see a cute curly haired puppy in the pet store, with big brown eyes begging for your attention. Next thing you know, you're walking down the pet food aisle at the supermarket buying dinner for your new puppy. It's not hard to get sucked in by a puppy. However, sharing your home with a four-legged friend can be one of life's greatest pleasures.

Adopting a dog is a big decision. Dogs require lots of time, money, and commitment, as they can live from 9 to 15 years, depending on the breed. Owning a dog can be very rewarding, but you must think it through before adopting one.

Things to consider when looking at puppies for adoption

Adopting a dog or puppy from an animal shelter shows that you're a responsible and caring person. But first take a moment to think over these important questions:

Why do you want a dog?

... not many people ask themselves this question. Don't forget that your new dog may be with you for up to 15 years.

Do you have time for a dog?

... you can't ignore your dog just because you're tired or busy. You have to provide food, water, exercise, care, and companionship every day of every year. You can't just "take a day off" if you feel like it. A lot of the dogs in the shelter or rescue are there because their owners didn't realize how much time it took to care for them.

Can you afford a dog?

... the costs of dog ownership can be quite high. Licenses, training classes, spaying and neutering, veterinary care, grooming, toys, food,and other expenses add up quickly.

Are you prepared to deal with special problems that a dog can cause? ... flea infestations, scratched-up furniture, and unexpected medical emergencies are all unfortunate aspects of dog ownership.

Can you have a pet where you live?

... if you rent you may not be allowed to have a puppy or a dog. Find out before you consider looking at puppy's for adoption.

Do you have young children?

... if you have kids under six years old, you might consider waiting a few years before you adopt a dog. Dog ownership requires children who are mature enough to be responsible.

How much room do you have at home?

... the size of the dog is not the only thing to think about here. Some small dogs, such as terriers are very active, and require a great deal of exercise to slow them down, and they often bark at any noise. On the other hand, quite a few big dogs are laid back and just couch potatoes. Before you adopt a dog, do your research. That way, you can be sure you choose a dog who will fit into your particular lifestyle and your living arrangements.

What will you do when you go on vacation?

... you'll either have to rely on your friends and neighbors or have the money to pay for a boarding kennel or pet-sitting service.

Are you prepared to keep and care for the pet for his or her entire lifetime? ... when you adopt a puppy dog, you are making a commitment to care for the animal for his or her lifetime.

Well, that was a long list of questions, however if you take a look through an animal shelter, they will help you understand why you need to answer each of them honestly.

Most of the dog shelter's and dog rescue's homeless animals are puppies and dogs that are the result of irresponsible breedings, or owners who simply could not manage their pet.

Please, please, don't make the same mistake! Think it through before you consider puppies for adoption. Sharing your life with a dog can bring incredible rewards, but only if you're willing to make the necessary commitments of time, money, responsibility, and love, for the life of the dog.

Russell Savige has been breeding and rearing dogs for 18 years. He is the owner of Training Dog Breeds, a website dedicated to the breeding, training and rearing of dogs and puppies. Training dog breeds includes a massive Directory of over 16,750 dog related websites.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/