If I've never ever been around dogs is it silly to want one one day?

[IHeartKingThistle]

Hello doghouse! I've never been in here before!

I have always had cats. Currently have a 15 year old cat who barely moves away from the fire and I wouldn't consider another pet while she is still with us. Wouldn't do that to the old dear! So I'm just wondering really.

I have never been around dogs for any length of time and know next to nothing about looking after one. But in my head I would love to have a Border Terrier one day. I don't know why but I've met a couple and they were gorgeous dogs and seemed good-natured. We have DC of 8 and 5 and I work in a very ad hoc way so I'm around a lot.

Is it silly to even think about it? Should I stick with cats? Wouldn't want to regret such a big decision. I'm not about to rush out and get a dog tomorrow but maybe one day?

Stupid question I guess!

I was in the same situation and have now had a cocker spaniel for a year. Go for it, I wish we had done it sooner.

Oh that's encouraging! Is there anything no-one ever tells you about getting a dog that I should know?

No you are not silly to WANT one. Dogs are loving, loyal, fun and a great way to get out, get exercise and meet people, as well as teaching children about caring for and loving a living creature. They are ace.

You would be silly, however, to GET a dog without fully looking into it. Research your breed traits, talk to owners, vets and breeders. You need to look at how much exercise and mental stimulation your dog needs. Think about the time and effort it takes to train a puppy (.worse than a new born, and for longer) or could you give a home to an older rescue dog instead? Can you afford good food, insurance, booster bills? Are you prepared to walk two or three times a day EVERY day no matter what hellish weather it is? And deal with poo? And upset tummy runny poo? What would you do if your work circumstances change in the next 10-15 years? What about holidays and days out? Who will look after your dog if you are taken into hospital for instance?

Those were just a few things that came straight off the top of my head, there are no doubt many more that others more experienced than me can add.

It's a big decision, a lot to think about, it's adding another member to your family who has to be included when you are making decisions for your family.

It's also one of the best things I ever did, I love my boy. Good luck.

Oh and the border terrier I know is feisty, very bright and strong willed, chases anything and everything so she has to watch very carefully where he gets offload, needs tons and tons of walking and playing catch and will destroy furniture if left alone (bored) for more than a couple of hours. His owner adores him but she is very fit and active and prepared to spend a LOT of time on his care. Just one example I know, but they are bred to work, and you have to work their little legs off!

Off lead! Not offload, sorry, autocorrect.

Argh, that's a big dose of the real world! Great list of things to think about though, thank you!

As a bit of prep, do you think you could volunteer as a walker/ general help at a local animal rescue?

Good idea to volunteer/walk.
We loved dogs but never thought a dog could fit into our life, until we cared for my mum's dog for 2 weeks - after that we reassessed priorities because having him was just fantastic and now have a wonderful terrier.