Thereâs a reason they say dogs are a personâs best friend. From that very first tail wag to sleepy snuggles on the sofa, a dog becomes family the moment they trot through your front door. Dogs bring unmatched love, loyalty, and laughter, whether you grew up with them or are getting your first.
Butâbefore you rush to the nearest shelter or fall in love with a fluffy face onlineâthere are some very real things you need to think about. Owning a dog is a lifelong commitment, not just a cute weekend impulse. So, if you’re serious about getting a dog this year, hereâs everything youâll want to consider before making it official.

Dogs Need Daily Exercise (Yes, Every Day)
Itâs not all belly rubs and biscuit rewards. Dogs need to move. Depending on the breed, your future pup might need anything from short strolls to full-on hikes. If youâre an early riser who loves a morning walkâor youâve been meaning to beâthis could be a match made in heaven.
But if your idea of cardio is walking to the fridge and back, you may want to rethink getting a dog. A bored dog is often a destructive one, and skipping walks wonât just affect their healthâitâll impact your furniture, your shoes, and your sanity.
Busy working full-time? Hiring a dog walker is a great workaroundâbut it should never replace genuine time together. Dogs crave your company.

Do You Already Have Pets?
Adding a new dog into your home isnât just about youâitâs about your current fur family too. If you already have a dog, consider a meet-and-sniff at a local park before committing. Watch how they interact: is there curiosity, indifference, or outright growling?
If youâve got a cat, things can be trickier. Some cats adjust beautifully to a new dog over time, while others declare an immediate warzone (complete with hissy fits). Think about your catâs temperament. Is it bold and bossy or shy and skittish? Using baby gates, supervised introductions, and ample patience may be necessary.

Dogs Are PricelessâBut Not Free
Letâs talk numbers. While adoption fees or buying a pup might be manageable up front, itâs the ongoing costs that really matter. Weâre talking food, flea treatments, grooming, toys (that they’ll probably destroy), and vet visits. And those vet bills? They can skyrocket fast.
An unexpected illness, dental cleanings, or emergency surgery can cost thousands in vet bills. While it may not be the most glamorous aspect of pet ownership, it’s crucial to be well-prepared. Pet insurance is worth looking intoâit might save you from tough choices later on.

pace Matters (Especially If You Live in a Flat)
If you live in a studio apartment without a garden, choosing a Golden Retriever might be quite challenging. Size mattersânot just the dogâs size, but your homeâs.
If you have a spacious detached house, you have the flexibility to consider different breeds, such as a Beagle. Great! A German Shepherd? Go for it. A St Bernard? Just make sure they donât eat the sofa.
But if youâre in a smaller space, consider a smaller breed with lower energy needs. Think: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, French Bulldog, or Pug. Donât forget to factor in room for their bed, crate, food and water bowls, and the endless toy pile youâll pretend to keep tidy.
Your Lifestyle = Their Life
This might be the most important question: does a dog fit into your current lifestyle?
Do you travel a lot? Do you work long hours? Are you up for early morning walks in the rain, surprise vet visits, and carpet accidents at 2 a.m.? If not, maybe nowâs not the right timeâand thatâs okay! Being honest with yourself is far better than bringing a dog into a home where they wonât thrive.
But if youâre ready for responsibility, routines, and a love so pure itâll make you cry into their furâthen maybe, just maybe, this is your year.

Final Woof
Bringing a dog into your life is one of the most rewarding, joyful things youâll ever do. However, it’s not a decision you should make hastily. With the right prep, plenty of love, and realistic expectations, youâll be giving your pup the forever home they truly deserve.
At the end of the day, adopting a dog means not just selecting a pet, but also acquiring a confidant, a best friend, and an enthusiastic supporter, particularly when snacks are involved.
Are you prepared to take the step? Are you still considering your options? Either wayâyouâre already on the right track.