Dogs are the best. They are loyal and provide us with a great source of comfort. A dog could be your companion when you feel lonely and even provide you with security. Owning a dog, however, is not for the faint-hearted. To keep a dog, you need to have the time, resources, and patience to do so. So, should you get a dog? Here are the reasons why you should or should not.
Why you need to have a dog
- You will have to get off the couch and get some exercise
You need to walk your dog daily, which will force you to exercise too. If you find that you are never in the mood to exercise or you never have time to work out, having a dog will force you to take a walk. Ultimately, this will benefit your overall physical health.
- A pet’s companionship is invaluable
They say nothing is as loyal as a dog. When those days come when you are in a not so good mood, your dog will always be there for you. Dogs can sense how you feel, your emotions, and even tell when you are in a bad mood. The bond a dog forms with you is unbreakable.
You can also send your dog staff if you are too tired to get off the couch. It will be just like the baby you never had.
- Dogs provide you with security
With a dog, you do not have to worry about having unauthorised people in your compound. Dogs bark when they see strangers or when they sense something is not right. They will draw your attention to it or even try to sort the problem themselves. Your dog is your watcher.
- If your social life is down, get a dog
Dogs love to interact with other dogs. When you walk your dog, it could start playing with other dogs along the way. In the meantime, you can also interact with your new dog owner friend!
The downsides of owning a dog
- The house will be untidy—at first
Until you learn to train your dog on where to poop and pee, you will have a hard time cleaning up your messy and smelly house and compound. Dog poop is toxic, and you will need to clean and detoxify your home very well to avoid infections.
Even when you succeed in training your dog on where to poop and pee, you will still have to deal with the fur it will shed almost anywhere, and it is not so pleasant.
- You need more resources in terms of time and money
Dogs are expensive to maintain; from cleaning them, feeding them, vaccinating them, and even building a proper shelter for them. Your dog could also get sick, and you need to ensure a professional vet treats it.
If you have a busy schedule, having a dog could be a challenge because, for example, you need to feed your dog regularly and bath him. You also need to spend some quality time bonding with him.
To learn more about the resources that you need to care well for a dog, you could take a look at Greater Bank’s Financial Guide to owning a dog.
- Your days of privacy are over
Your dog is always watching your every move. It is hard to make babies when your dog is somewhere drooling at you. It feels awkward.
A dog is good company. Before you acquire one though, ensure you can handle the huge responsibility of owning one. With a dog by your side, you can rest assured that you have a lifetime friend.
