Are you thinking of acquiring a new canine companion? Before you introduce a new furry friend to your household, you need to be certain you have what it takes for a positive experience. To help you learn whether you are a good candidate for dog ownership, here are a few things that responsible dog owners possess.

Owning a dog is a big commitment. Are you willing to provide care for the life of your dog? Lifelong care will include more than food, toys, and accessories. You'll also need veterinary care for a dog, and not only when your dog is ill or injured. Dogs need vaccinations and wellness exams, too, and the expenses can add up.

Then there's the matter of grooming, boarding, and daycare. Responsible dog owners often have their pets professionally groomed. Toenails will need to be trimmed, and their fur needs to be cared for as well.

In addition, pet day care may be necessary if you work long hours and can't leave your dog home alone all day. A facility that provides a safe place for your dog to play and interact while you're at work will help ensure your pet's well-being.

Responsible dog owners have the financial means to care for their pet for the dog's lifetime. If you are unsure of the costs of keeping a dog, do your research. Look up information on a pet ownership cost guide and determine if you have the financial means. Plan ahead, as you may need to provide for your dog for your dog for over a decade.

A puppy needs room to grow, quite literally. To determine if you are a good candidate for dog ownership, consider the size of your home. While some small or toy dog breeds do well in apartments, larger breeds do best living in a house with a yard.

A responsible dog owner will have space for the dog. Being cramped into small quarters without the room to comfortably move and exercise is not a healthy situation for a dog.

At the same time, dedicated dog owners know how to ensure their homes are pet-friendly. This means not only seeing to their needs but placing safety as a priority. A dog-friendly home will be free of electrocution and choking hazards. In addition, dogs should not have access to medications or chemicals in the home, and indoor plants will need to be non-toxic to pets.

As almost any dedicated dog owner will attest to, time, patience, and love is a must. You will need ample time to devote to your dog if you are to enjoy a happy relationship and bond. Because dogs are social animals, they will rely on their human caregivers for interaction. Most responsible and dedicated dog owners find the time to interact and play with their animals.

If you want to spend more quality time with your dog, include your pet in your daily activities. Exercise with your dog or go for a hike together. Visit pet-friendly stores together. Take your pet with you on social calls to friends and family. Dedicated dog owners include their pets in their daily schedule.

Patience is an important attribute that any good dog owner will possess. If you want a well-behaved and a well-trained dog, it will take time and plenty of patience. Most importantly, dedicated dog owner will love their pet through good times and bad.

If you want to learn more about how play-time day care can enrich your dog's life, contact our staff at Eli's Friends today.