Choosing a dog or not?
Choosing a dog or not is an important decision and not something that you can take lightly, most dogs live about 10 to 15 years. A dog needs a lot of attention and that takes up a lot of time. Dogs need to be taken for walks a few times a day and that means you must go out in all kinds of weather. When you decide choosing a dog you need to be taking care off when they are sick, which means you need to spend more time with them not to speak about the money it will cost you when they need an operation or medicine.
Before you decide if you are ready in choosing a dog or not it is possibly a good idea to ask your self the following questions:
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why do I do want a dog?
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how is my daily life now and in the long run?
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which nature do I have?
These questions can give you insight in the question if it is okay to choosing a dog and if you have the right reasons to do so?
There are a lot of reasons to take a dog, When you have time, space and are prepared to give love and attention to the dog, you already have a valid reason. But… we are just at the beginning! How is my life? Does a dog fit in it, and will the dog still fit in after 5 or 10 years.
The next questions can help you in determ if you should be choosing a dog or wait a few years.
| A | yes | no |
| Do you live alone? | 5 points | 3 points |
| Do you work every day | 0 points | 5 points |
| Can your dog go with you to your work | 3 points | 0 points |
| Are you often away from home | 0 points | 4 points |
| Can you take the dog with you | 2 points | 0 points |
| Do you like to walk | 3 points | 1 point |
| Also in bad weather | 2 points | 0 points |
| Do you have 2 hours time to spend with your dog | 5 points | 1 point |
| Do you like to go on holiday | 1 point | 3 points |
| Will you take the dog with you on holiday | 2 points | 0 points |
| Are you sick a lot | 1 point | 4 points |
| Count the points |
| B | True | False |
| I’m neat | 1 point | 4 points |
| I’m very active | 4 points | 2 points |
| I don’t mind some dust | 3 points | 1 point |
| I like peace and quiet | 2 points | 3 points |
| I’m inconsistent | 2 points | 3 points |
| I’m being influenced by moods | 1 point | 3 points |
| I don’t mind some excitement | 1 point | 3 points |
| I cant say no | 1 point | 2 points |
| I’m consequent | 4 points | 2 points |
| Actually I’m a little lazy | 2 points | 3 points |
| Barking dogs frighten me | 0 points | 2 points |
| I don’t like a mess | 1 point | 3 points |
| I’m patience | 4 points | 2 points |
| Count the points |
How much points do you have in part A and B together? Remember the results are only a way to get you thinking if it is really wise choosing a dog.
30 or less points:
It is probably better when you do not take a dog at this time of your life, perhaps the circumstances will change and then you can consider again to buy a dog. At this moment you would not be doing the dog and yourself a favor.
30 – 45 points:
Look at the score, is the problem in your way of living ore more in your nature? When its the way of living may by it is better when you don’t take a dog at this time of your life.
45 – 68 points:
A dog probably fits in your lifestyle and by your nature, at least when you don’t have to leave the dog alone 8 hours a day.
68 or more points:
A dog should be very happy in your home and life.
