Actually the ideas I’m going to suggest have more to do with common sense and above all respect for animals. They are more than just possessions; they are living beings and will be an integral part of your life and those of your family, housemates, and friends.

Ø      Before you bring your dog or puppy home, sit down with your family and discuss what’s going to happen. Explain how having a dog in your home is likely to change your lives and routines, and give each person some responsibility in caring for and sharing with the new addition

Ø      You may have decided on adopting a more mature dog rather than a puppy. This is great, but you and yours should be aware that the dog may have been traumatized or abused at some point. You would probably want your children to be a bit older and able to understand what happened and the best way to interact with the dog

Ø      Choose a dog that fits your lifestyle. For example if you’re a city dweller who doesn’t spend much time outdoors, you wouldn’t want a dog bred for hunting or herding

Ø      Schedule time every single day for training and bonding. Once you have a well-mannered animal, you still need to spend time just being with him. If you are just going to neglect him, why bother to adopt him at all?

Ø      Having enough money to take proper care of your dog is important. That means being able to feed him properly and keep up with annual vet bills and being prepared for the unexpected

Ø      Schedule time for you or someone in the family to take your dog out for a brisk walk everyday. Ideally, you’ll want to allow about 45 minutes per day