Are you planning to adopt a dog? Have you decided what breed to get? Before you actually go to a pet shelter or a pet shop to get your dog, please keep in mind that owning or adopting a dog is not as simple as buying yourself a stuffed toy that you’ll hug every night. Dog parenting is a huge responsibility and any aspiring dog owner should always consider that in mind. If you have decided to become a dog owner, please keep these five helpful tips in mind:

1. Always recognize the commitment. Owning or adopting a dog is a long-term emotional and financial commitment. Before deciding that a certain dog is right for you, you must make an honest assessment as to whether your home is right for any type of dog breed. Can you afford the expenses? Are you ready for a whole new responsibility? These are some of the questions that you must ask yourself.

2. Check your lifestyle. You need to make sure that your dog suits your lifestyle. For example, if you are athletic, you will probably not be happy with a dog that has a low energy level. If you are extremely neat, you will probably want a dog that doesn’t shed much. All aspects of your life like hobbies, activities, personalities, schedules should be evaluated before you get a dog.

3. Take down what qualities you would want from a dog. Do this based on your evaluation about your lifestyle. This will help you make sure that the dog breed that you’ll own or adopt will fit your lifestyle perfectly. For example, if you have children at home, you must get a dog that will get along with kids well.

4. Once you have made your list of ideal characteristics based on your lifestyle, it is now time to do some research to find which breeds will fit that profile. Go to your local library, attend a dog show, or check out information online that will help you narrow your choices to the breed that is right for you.

5. Get a breeder referral contact. This is because you have a better chance of being satisfied if you get your dog from a responsible, ethical breeder whose primary concern is to produce dogs of good health and stable temperament. These individuals can put you in contact with breeders or rescue organizations in your area.