Daddy, Can I Have A Puppy?

Sooner or later, every parent is likely to hear: "Please, can I have a puppy?"
And its hard to say no when you remember the fun you had with your dog when you were eight or nine years old way back when.

Rather than dodge the question, parents should consider whether their family is ready for a pet,Do you think the child is mature enough to handle the responsibilities of taking care of a puppy. And keep in mind a puppy is not always going to be a puppy. A puppy is going to grow up.

A Very Happy Mama Dog And Her Puppies

Who will care for the pet? Families should agree beforehand who will be responsible for feeding, walking, bathing and cleaning up after the pet. Have a family meeting and discuss if the whole family is ready for a puppy. Does everyone want a puppy and who is willing to help with the puppies care and be sure everyone know that the puppy is going to grow up.

Do you have space for a pet? Families living in apartments or townhouses may prefer a cat, a bird or fish, rather than a Labrador retriever. Check the library or Internet to learn more about different types and breeds of pets to determine the one most suitable for your family. Do your research and learn everything you can about the kind of dog you want. After all it is going to be a member of your family for a long time to come. You want to be sure that you check out what health problems or diseases might a particular breed of dog have. Don't miss the video below on choosing the right puppy.

Owning a pet is time consuming and may be expensive. Family members should realize that they may have to give up other activities to properly care for a pet. If the prospect seems too daunting, parents may suggest waiting until the child is old enough to help care for an animal. Maybe you need to consider a small dog or adopt a older dog that is great with children from a local shelter.


Be sure that the whole family meets the puppy or dog before you bring it home. Do any of your family members have allergies. If so you really need that person to meet the dog or puppy before you bring it home. Getting a puppy or an adult dog from a shelter is a long term commitment that should not be taken lightly.

Before the puppy or dog comes home you need to find out what kind of food the dog or puppy is going to need and you need to purchase food for the dog, a food and water bowl for the dog, a bed for the dog and if its going to be kept outside or its going to be kept outside part of the time your going to need a kennel and a dog house before you bring the dog or puppy home.

Very Cute Puppies

If you get a puppy or a grown dog take it to the veterinarian and have it checked over before you take it home. Ask the veterinarian what if any kinds of shots or vaccines the puppy or dog may need. If you buy a puppy ask the person you buy it from what shots it has had and what shots its going to need. Take notes when you go to pick the puppy up and ask any questions you may have about the puppy you are bringing home.