Quick Recap: Should I Get a Dog?
- Bringing home a dog is exciting, but it also requires daily time, financial planning, and long-term commitment.
- Reflect honestly on your lifestyle, schedule, household, and readiness for training, socialization, and wellness care.
- Dogs need companionship, consistency, and exercise every single day to stay healthy and happy.
- Consider the type of dog that fits your home and personality
Bringing home a dog is one of the most joyful and meaningful decisions you can make. Many people start searching “Should I get a dog?” when they feel that spark of excitement after meeting a friendly pup at the park or seeing a neighbour’s dog trot proudly beside them. Asking this question is the first step toward responsible dog ownership.
At DogPlay, we spend every day caring for dogs whose families have taken that commitment seriously. Whether your pup comes for daycare, boarding, or grooming, we see how much love goes into giving them a full and happy life. And if you’re thinking about getting a dog, it’s reassuring to know you have a supportive dog daycare in Vancouver ready to help care for your future pup whenever life gets busy.
Let’s get into the key questions to ask before welcoming a furry new family member!
Understanding the Responsibility of Dog Ownership
Before you look at the six questions below, it helps to understand why this kind of reflection is so important. The excitement of imagining life with a dog can make it tempting to jump straight into searching adoption sites or messaging breeders. Dogs are awesome, and the idea of cuddles, companionship, and outdoor adventures can make anyone want the fun parts.
But becoming a dog parent is a life-changing decision, not a quick choice. Dogs rely on their families for everything from structure and training to emotional support and long-term health care. The questions in this guide are designed to help you pause, reflect, and understand what day-to-day life will look like once a dog joins your home. Each question highlights a different part of responsible dog ownership, from time commitments to financial planning to understanding what kind of dog will truly thrive with you.
1. Do I Have Enough Time In My Daily Routine For A Dog?
The very first question is the most important one. Bringing home a dog means adding new routines, responsibilities, and expenses to your daily life. Dogs need companionship, structure, and care every single day.
Think about your morning routine, your work hours, your evenings, and your weekends. Does your current lifestyle allow time for walks, training, feeding, grooming, playtime, and companionship? Dogs rely on their families for all of this. A dog who is bored or stressed can develop behavioural challenges that require even more time and support.
2. Do I Have Enough Space at Home for a Dog
Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, but every dog needs space to move, rest, and feel safe. You do not need a large house to be a great dog parent. Many dogs do very well in apartments or condos as long as their physical and mental needs are met.
Think about your living environment.
- Do you have access to parks or walking paths?
- Is your building or where you’re located pet-friendly?
- Do you have a safe place for a dog to rest and relax?
Some dogs need more room for play, and some are comfortable in more compact spaces. What matters most is your commitment to creating a safe and enriching environment.
3. Can I Afford the Cost of Owning a Dog?
Dogs require ongoing care that adds up over time.
Typical expenses include food, veterinary visits, grooming, dental care, toys, training classes, and emergency costs. According to recent data, annual costs in Canada often range from about CAD 3,000 to 5,000 or more, depending on size, age, health needs and lifestyle.
Puppies, large-breed dogs, and senior dogs often require extra care—and a serious emergency procedure can push costs even higher. Being financially prepared helps avoid stressful situations down the road and ensures your dog receives the care they deserve.
4. Is Your Lifestyle and Home Environment Ready for a Dog?
A dog doesn’t just join your home, they become part of your daily life, relationships, and routines. Whether you live alone, with a partner, with roommates, or with a full family, it’s important to consider how your home environment and the people in it will support a new dog.
If you live with others, make sure everyone is on the same page.
Ask questions like:
- Who will handle feeding and daily care?
- Who will support training and supervision?
- Does anyone have allergies, fears, or hesitations?
- Is everyone genuinely ready for the commitment?
If you live alone, reflect on your lifestyle and emotional readiness.
Consider:
- Are you prepared for a companion who relies on you alone for care?
- Is your schedule stable enough to support a dog’s daily needs?
- Do you have trusted support—family, friends, or a reputable daycare for busy or difficult days?
Children often adore dogs, and dogs can teach kindness, empathy, and patience. Still, both kids and dogs need guidance and structure to build a safe, healthy bond.
At the end of the day, a dog thrives best in a home where the environment is calm, supportive, and united—whether that home is full of people or just you.
5. Are You Prepared for Training and Social Time?
Training isn’t a luxury—it’s a core part of responsible dog ownership. Dogs learn through consistency, routine, and clear communication. Without training, everyday behaviours like polite walking, waiting at doors, or greeting visitors can quickly become stressful for both you and your dog.
Socialization is equally essential. Puppies need safe, positive exposure to people, sounds, environments, and other animals. Adult dogs also benefit from ongoing enrichment and learning to stay confident and well-adjusted.
Plan to invest time and patience into training throughout your dog’s life. Whether you train at home, join group classes, or work with a certified professional, your dog will rely on you to help them navigate the world with confidence.
6. Are You Prepared for Long-Term Health and Wellness Care?
Dogs can’t communicate discomfort with words, so they rely on us to recognize subtle changes. Preventive care is essential for keeping them healthy throughout their lives. This includes annual veterinary exams, up-to-date vaccinations, dental care, parasite prevention, and monitoring for shifts in behaviour, appetite, or mobility.
Every breed and size comes with different health considerations. Some dogs are prone to allergies, while others may develop joint, skin, or digestive issues as they age. The more you understand your dog’s unique needs, the better equipped you’ll be to support their long-term well-being.
At DogPlay, we see firsthand how much regular care contributes to a dog’s comfort and overall health. Gentle grooming, safe handling, and routine observation often help catch early signs of discomfort, giving families a chance to follow up with their veterinarian before issues progress.
FAQs About Whether Dog Parenthood Is Right For You
What should I think about before getting a dog?
Consider your time, finances, lifestyle, training abilities, and long-term commitment. Dogs need daily care, companionship, and veterinary attention.
How much does it cost to own a dog in Canada?
Most dog owners spend between $3,000 and $5,000 per year on food, veterinary care, grooming, training, supplies, and routine checkups. However, this amount can increase depending on your dog’s size, age, health needs, and lifestyle. Emergency vet visits, dental procedures, or specialty diets can add hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars more in a single year.
Is it better to adopt a dog or buy one?
Both are responsible choices as long as you adopt from a reputable rescue or purchase from a responsible breeder who focuses on health and temperament.
Can I get a dog if I work full-time?
Yes, as long as you plan for support, such as trusted family members or quality daycare, to ensure your dog gets exercise and companionship.
What breed is best for first-time dog parents?
There is no single “best” breed. The right match depends on your lifestyle, activity level, home environment, and experience. Look for a dog whose energy, temperament, and care needs fit naturally into your daily life.
Are dogs good for mental health?
Yes. Studies have shown that dogs can reduce stress, support emotional well-being, and add a meaningful structure to daily life.
Your Journey to Dog Parenthood Starts Here
Dogs enrich our lives in countless ways. They bring joy, comfort, structure, and companionship. They also depend on us fully and completely. Asking “Is a dog right for me?” is a sign that you care enough to prepare.
By thinking through these six key questions, you can make a thoughtful decision that leads to a strong, lasting bond. Whether you adopt a playful puppy or welcome a gentle senior, your commitment will shape their happiness and health for years to come.
At DogPlay, we love seeing families approach dog ownership with care and honesty. If you decide to bring a dog home, our daycare, boarding, and grooming teams are here to support your journey every step of the way.
More Tips for Dog Parents
• When Is It Too Cold to Walk My Dog? Winter Safety 101
• How Long Can a Dog Stay Home Alone? Tips for Busy Parents
• Can Dogs Have Celery? Healthy Snack Tips for Your Pup