Yes it is said… “Dog is man’s best friend”. And sometimes this picture becomes a reality right when our kids are young. They ask us the question above (post title). Now the big discussion that will follow is, will we give in? What are the advantages and disadvantages of having a dog at home?
Let me share my experience that might help you decide when you face this crossroad. 🙂
Disadvantages: You will need to have…
1. Extra care – Not only that you’ll have to potty train the dog, you’ll also need to maybe teach some tricks. Plus there is the bathing part, cleaning after its mess, etc. Thus, you’ve got to be ready to give an extra care.
2. Extra budget – The buying of the dog alone will already costs you. There’s the registration part. Then the maintenance: dog food, shampoo, conditioner, grooming tools, leash, collar, feeding containers, toys… plus the vet’s check-up fees for vaccine shots, etc. Prepare to spend some cash!
3. Extra time – A dog will not exist on its own. As mentioned, it’s a friend. This means you’ve got to spend some time walking, touching, feeding, playing… Your child will mostly take care of all of this but every dog looks for the leader of the house (like the leader of the pack when they we’re wild) so just in ready.
4. Extra patience – Yes in most pictures, all dogs look perfect. But they do make mess. They poop, destroy things, chew your favorite furniture, break your pots and the list goes on (it’s for you to discover what else is possible out there).  They do this especially when they are not trained. So get yourself geared up with lots of patience so you can smile when your dog pees on your favorite party dress. 🙂
Advantages: You’ll get to enjoy…
1. Friendship – You will surely have a friend in dogs! Not just your child but the whole family. Have you seen the movie Hachiko? That’s just one example of a dog’s faithfulness. There are thousands of stories around the world today of the love and affection of dogs.
2. Safety – Thieves hesitate to rob your house when you have dogs. They bark at anything that moves especially when they feel a threat.
3. Companionship – Need “someone” to go hunting with you? Or need to jog by has “no one”? Dogs are great companions! They even listen and sympathize when you when you’re down and lonely.
4. Enjoyment – They are with to be with! You get to play with them, swim with them; kids will surely be entertained running endlessly while you prepare a meal. They greet by wiggling their tails when they see you arrive from your workplace. They are fun to watch playing, eating or react to things weird to them. Â Above all dogs bring joy to a man’s heart that no loyal friend can ever bring. Not that they equal man… but among all pets, they are the most responsive to your love.
Considering a dog? Here is a list to consider by the Today.
Considering a home? Here’s also a list! 🙂
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