You might have dreamed of bringing home a dog for a long time, but the timing and circumstances just haven’t been right. But, now you feel more ready and are excited to start looking for a dog to bring home. Are you ready to be a dog owner? Here are some signs you might be ready to be a dog owner.

1. You’re Ready for Commitment

A dog requires a big commitment. One of the biggest signs you’re not ready for a puppy is if you’re not ready for the commitment. You must commit to caring for a living creature and be prepared for the responsibility that comes with that.

You’re committing to at least 10-15 years, or more depending on the breed. Dogs also require love, attention, and exercise and playtime daily. Owning a dog is a lot of work, but it is rewarding.

2. You Have the Space

Depending on the dog breed, you will need ample space for your new pup. Certain breeds are better suited to large quarters so keep that in mind if you don’t have much extra space. If you want a larger breed that requires more room to run, you might want to consider relocating to a new place or waiting until you can move.

Dogs are happiest when they’re well exercised or allowed to run freely in an enclosed yard or space. A large or very energetic dog will not be happy in tight quarters. Giving the right breed the right amount of space is one of the ways to be a responsible dog owner and will keep you and your dog both happy and content!

3. You’re Ready for the Cost

Dogs cost a lot of money. First, you’ll have to pay the breeder and buy initial dog supplies. There are must-haves for first-time dog owners you’ll need and supplies you’ll have to buy even if it’s not your first dog.

Then, you’re also going to be paying for your puppy’s first vet visit and immunizations. And of course, you’ll be paying for food, toys, treats, grooming costs, and vet bills. And, don’t forget about costs for boarding your dog or pet sitting if you need to do any traveling and can’t take your dog with you.

If this is your first dog, you may want to sign up for dog training as well. Doing this is an excellent way to socialize your dog and is one of the benefits of puppy training classes. It is also very helpful having an expert offer tips and tricks to help train your dog well.

4. You Have the Time

Raising a dog takes a lot of time. Your dog will require love and attention, not to mention exercise. Puppies take the most time, with training, walks, potty training, and more. They need you a lot more because they are adjusting to a new life away from their mother and siblings. They’ll need extra care and comfort.

Socializing and training will also take a lot of time and effort. Puppies need these skills to be happy and well-adjusted dogs. And when your dog grows up, it still will require time and attention.

So if you travel a lot or are rarely at home, you will need to adjust your schedule to allow a lot more time at home to have a dog. Dogs can be alone for short periods of time, but it isn’t fair to expect them to be alone for hours.

Are you ready to be a dog owner? These are just a few signs that you’re ready to be a dog owner. Dogs require a lot of love and attention, but they also bring a lot of love into your home.