Some people buy dogs simply because of well-known characters books, movies. For instance, Rough Collies and St. Bernards were in demand in the past due to the TV series Lassieand the movie Beethoven. More recently, people have been buying spitz breeds due to Game of Thrones popularity.

But the novelty factor does wear off. People don't realize how much work it takes to care for dogs. For instance, sled dogs like Huskies are incredibly active and have a propensity for roaming. People who don't have the time to walk them or the money to give them a large fenced area to play end up dropping them off at the shelter.

When there was a remake of 101 Dalmations in 1996, many people bought Dalmatians without realizing that they need a firm hand. Unsocialized and untrained Dalmations are not good with children and can be temperamental. Like the husky, many owners were not ready for this high-energy dog. Sadly, many of these dogs ended in shelters.

Truly ask yourself if you want a dog because you want them to emulate a character or because you want to care for a new member of the family.

Although some people have their heart deadest on a specific breed, this can be a bad idea if your home environment is not suitable. By being more open, you will be able to find a dog that fits your family's lifestyle.

Along with being open to different breed options, you should be open to different venues for adoption. If you just want to get a dog quickly from your local pet store, you probably aren't ready for a dog.

Many pet stores get their puppies from puppy mills, which are large breeding operations that are notorious for not keeping them healthy and not properly socializing them. Instead, you should vet different shelters and breeders. Adopting from a shelter is often best because millions of dogs are sent there each year, and because there isn't enough room, many are euthanized.

However, it takes a special kind of person to adopt from a shelter. Some of these pets are sent to shelters because of medical needs or because of behavioral issues. Thankfully, many shelters will vet potential adopters to make sure you are up for the challenge.

If a shelter isn't right for you, then you should get in touch with a reputable breeder. These people don't pump out dogs like puppy mills, so their dogs are socialized and healthy. You will also have the advantage of knowing the dog's previous medical history, which isn't always the case at shelters.

Some breeds don't need as much activity as others and are suitable for apartment living. However, this does not mean that you can neglect your dog. Playing fetch or going on a brief walk may be needed every day so that your dog does not get bored or anxious.

If you work long hours, you'll want to look into boarding a few times a week. While boarding centers can be used for vacation time, they can also be used to watch your dog a few times a week. This is a good way to let your dog exercise and socialize with other dogs. Contact a place Eli's Friends to learn more.

The ASPCA says that the first year of owning a dog can cost more than $1000 and about $500 for each additional year. These costs include things like food, annual shots, veterinary care, boarding stays, toys, treats, cages and more.

And then there are the hidden costs of care. For instance, if you have allergies, you may need to spend money on allergy shots, medications, or HEPA devices so your pup's dander doesn't bother you. If you want your dog to have more space to play, you may want to build a fence or purchase a doggy door.

If you honestly answer each of these four questions, you'll be better able to understand if a dog is right for your family.