Top 8 Costs of Dog Ownership: What You Need to Know
For those who haven't owned a dog yet, the thought of it might send shivers down your spine. But hold on, there's more! Your wallet will start to thin out, your sense of smell will become increasingly acute, and your leisure time will dwindle. Regretting your decision already? Don't worry; there's plenty more where that came from!
It will never be perfectly听话
Your dog might have mastered tricks like shaking hands or sitting, but that doesn't guarantee a wellbehaved pup on walks. Most puppies, even those who've learned commands, can turn into little terrors when they're out playing.
And at home? It's a whole new world of chaos. Your new shoes might end up with a bite mark, your electrical outlets could be marked with a urine stain, and your living space might be turned upside down. Just because your dog is wellbehaved doesn't mean it understands human rules. Even as adults, they can still cause mischief.
It will transform your life
Before getting a dog, you might have been accustomed to sleeping in until the afternoon on weekends. Postpet, it's an early 6 AM wakeup call, unless you're okay with the smell of dog urine and feces filling your room. You'll be walking your dog rain or shine, preparing meals, trimming nails, bathing, and training. And let's not forget the endless debate between the safety of pet stores and the allure of online prices – your favorite shopping spot is now a place of contemplation.
It will add pressure to your life
Years ago, these pressures might not have been on your radar, but in recent times, humandog conflicts have been on the rise, fueled by sensationalist media. Dog owners must now be on guard against thieves, the risk of encountering poisoned bait, disputes with owners who don't leash their dogs, and the fear of being labeled a "dog slave" if they dare to speak up for their furry friends.
It will test your patience time and again
Your dog might howl in the dead of night for no apparent reason, make a mess in the house, or sneak into the trash for a midnight snack, despite your repeated training. But eventually, you'll find that you've become more patient – a side effect of dog ownership.
It will give you a case of choice paralysis
What should you feed it? What type of food? This is a question many dog owners grapple with daily. Should it be grainfree, organic, prescription, imported, or domestic? Meat or fish? The options are endless, and the decisionmaking can be overwhelming.
It will empty your wallet
Even without regular vet visits, you can't guarantee your dog will stay healthy. That means frequent trips to the vet, dealing with seasonal issues like skin conditions, parasites, allergies, and colds, all of which can be quite costly.
It will force you to learn
Before getting a dog, you might have thought a wagging tail meant happiness. Now, you'll understand that there are many types of wagging, each with its own emotional message. You'll need to learn the basics of "dog language," whether you like it or not.
It will make you want to come home sooner
Before your dog, you might have been thinking about where to go for a night out after work. Now, you're more concerned with traffic on the way home, just to see your furry friend as soon as possible.
Do you have other family members at home? If not, you might not have experienced the rush to get home after work. For many, the desire to see their dog is so strong that they prioritize it over everything else.
By now, you might be feeling a mix of fear and excitement. If you're not fully prepared, both mentally and financially, it's best not to jump into dog ownership. After all, it's not just about the money and time; it's about the love and commitment you're willing to give. So, think twice before making this lifelong commitment!
