Home > Pet Adoption > Is a dog the right pet for you?

Dogs are intelligent, faithful and fun companions. However, they take up a lot of time, energy and money. Before adopting a dog, consider what changes might occur in your lifestyle over the next few years, such as moving interstate, welcoming a new baby and travelling. Are you prepared to care for a dog in all these times?

A dog is not a good choice for busy households or owners who are out all day. Before you get a pet you should think very hard about whether you can provide what it needs.

What do dogs require?

• Someone to provide them with their needs for the rest of their lives.

• Companionship; to be with other dogs or people and not to be left alone for long periods.

• A balanced diet.

• A constant supply of fresh, clean water.

• Worming and regular flea treatment.

• Regular walks (at least once a day).

• A well-fenced garden to play and exercise in.

• Raw bones to chew on to keep teeth and gums healthy.

• Regular checks by a veterinarian.

• To be groomed regularly, particularly when shedding. Long-haired dogs need to be groomed every day.

• Some dogs need to be clipped regularly.

• To be cared for when you are away.

• Never to be left in a car in warm weather, even with the window open.

• A bed with their own blanket.

• To be desexed.

• A collar and identification tag.

• A microchip for permanent identification.

• To be registered with the local council.

Training.

To be cleaned up after.

Lifespan

This depends on the size of the dog, but is around 8-14 years. A small dog can live much longer.

Behaviour

The dog is a pack animal and will be upset if left on its own for long periods of time. You also need to establish the dogs' place in the pack, that is, your family.

Training your dog

Basic training is important and should commence as soon as you get your dog home. Positive reinforcement (rewarding good behaviour) is the recommended method of training. Training requires time, patience and repetition to be effective.

It is a good idea to train your dog to sit before you give it anything it wants including food and attention.

Socialisation

A dog needs to mix with its own kind. It also needs to get used to a range of people, places and noises. A critical period for a puppy is between 4-18 weeks of age. Many clinics now run puppy pre-school or socialisation classes. These classes allow puppies to socialise with people and other dogs. They also teach owners about basic obedience training and general health care of your new pet.
health.

A dog needs to be vaccinated against serious diseases and given regular boosters (further injections) throughout its life-usually once a year after an initial series of shots.

A dog should be treated routinely for intestinal worms, heart worm and fleas. Veterinary surgeons can recommend the most suitable treatment.

A dog that does not receive enough exercise or is overfed becomes obese. It lives in pain and discomfort and its life expectancy is shortened. Lack of exercise can also lead to overgrown claws and is often the cause of destructive behaviours.

Diet

A good diet is especially important for puppies, nursing bitches and older dogs. Ensure the food you buy contains all the requirements your dog needs. Look for the words 'balanced' or 'complete' to ensure all the dog's nutritional needs are met. A poor coat may indicate lack of regular brushing, but can also result from poor diet or parasites.

Why adoptions fail

• Not understanding what normal dog behaviour is for the type of dog.

• Expecting too much too soon.

• Not thinking ahead about changes in lifestyle and living arrangements.

Common problems

• Barking and digging are normal behaviours but can be distressful to us. Training can help.

• Dogs left alone for long periods with nothing to do will find their own amusement!

• Escaping: good fences and gates are essential for all dogs.

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