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Deciding to get a family dog is such an exciting time. Maybe your kids have been asking for a puppy for years, or you might have lost an older dog and feel like you’re ready to open your heart again to another one. We’ve all heard the advice time and time again that getting a dog is a big responsibility, but that really can’t be overstated enough- a dog changes everything! It will change your routine, it will definitely affect your finances. There are lots of practical things to consider, like who will look after it when you go away on holiday. It absolutely needs the right planning to get a dog that has the best chance of fitting in well with your family, as that means less stress for everyone. Here are some really important things to consider when you’re choosing a dog.
The breed
It’s easy to fall for a cute face, you might already have your favourite breeds in mind in terms of the way that they look. But getting a dog that genuinely suits family life isn’t about picking the most photogenic one, or the breed that everyone else seems to have. The right choice depends on your lifestyle, how busy the household is and how much energy and patience you’re willing to put in. Some breeds have a reputation for being good with children but even that doesn’t mean they’re ideal in every home. Labradors and golden retrievers are known for their gentle temperament but they also come with strength, endless energy and a need for lots of mental stimulation and walks. They’re not low maintenance just because they’re friendly. If time is tight or the idea of endless muddy walks sounds exhausting, look at dogs that are calmer by nature. Cavalier King Charles spaniels are affectionate and tend to be happy with shorter bursts of exercise, though they do need proper health checks due to inherited conditions. Whippets surprise people with how well they slot into domestic life. They’re gentle, affectionate and love a soft spot on the sofa but will need a good run now and then. Size also matters more than people realise. Big dogs can be wonderful around children but they’re harder to manage when they jump up or pull on the lead. Big dogs will come with higher costs too, they eat more food, their leads, collars, beds, harnesses and crates are more expensive. When they get ill they need higher doses of medication which can cost more, so that’s well worth thinking about. Small dogs might seem easier but some are known to get snappy with too much fuss which of course isn’t ideal let alone for those with kids in the house. Every breed will have its little quirks that will only show up once they’ve settled in so it helps to think long term, not just about the puppy stage.
Train them well
No matter what breed you choose, training a dog is non negotiable especially when you have a family. A dog that listens makes life easier for everyone and keeps your home from turning into chaos. The early weeks are key as puppies go through a crucial stage where they soak up everything around them. If you wait too long to start training or think they’ll grow out of bad habits, the problems will more than likely grow with them. Even rescue dogs that are older will need consistent training to settle into their new environment. Positive reinforcement works best in a family setting, harsh discipline or shouting won’t help a dog learn, especially in a noisy or busy house where there’s already a lot going on. Use treats, toys and tone of voice to reward good behaviour and gently redirect the bad. Involve the children too but with clear boundaries. Kids love the idea of training a dog but they’re not always consistent or aware of body language especially little kids. Let them help with simple commands and games but make sure an adult is in charge. Dogs need to know who’s leading and when the rules are the same for everyone, they feel safer and calmer.
Meeting their other needs
Dogs need more than just exercise and food, a family dog also needs attention, stimulation and downtime. Some breeds don’t cope well when left alone for hours, and even the ones that do need to know they have a quiet space to retreat to when everything gets noisy. Mental stimulation matters more than people think as a bored dog will most definitely find its own entertainment and it’s rarely something you want, like tearing up the post or digging through the bins. Puzzle toys, short training sessions and new environments all help them feel fulfilled. Routine helps dogs thrive so if you can, make sure that feeding times, walks and bedtime should follow a schedule If school runs, work and sports clubs make things hectic, you’ll need to figure out how to keep the dog’s routine from being completely upended. Unpredictable days can unsettle them and lead to anxiety, barking or destructive habits.
Health, grooming and vet bills
Every breed has health issues worth knowing about before you commit. Flat-faced dogs often struggle with breathing and overheating. Large breeds can be prone to joint problems and need specific diets to support growth. Some popular crosses come with unknowns unless you see health certificates from both parents.m Grooming needs vary wildly. Poodle mixes might be sold as low shedding but they often need professional grooming every six to eight weeks to stay comfortable and clean. Spaniels get matted ears and muddy paws. Huskies shed heavily twice a year and it gets everywhere. If you don’t want to spend your weekends brushing or hoovering, think about coat type before you fall in love with a breed. Then there’s the cost. Vet bills, food, insurance, flea and worm treatment, toys, boarding if you go away all adds up fast.
Considering rescues
Rescue dogs are well worth considering, especially if the idea of raising a puppy from scratch feels a bit full on. Lots of dogs in shelters have lived in family homes before and already understand the basics, like where they’re allowed to sleep and when it’s time to settle down. Others might need more time and patience but with the right support they can turn into brilliant pets. Rescue centres will often take the time to match you with dogs based on your lifestyle and experience, not just what you’re drawn to on looks. You might even find a dog that’s already house trained or used to being around children which makes everything a bit easier in the early days. That said, it’s not always the straightforward option. Some rescue dogs have had a rough start or picked up behavioural issues and you need to be really honest about what you can and can’t take on.
