Warning: Buying a dog is a big decision.  It should not be made lightly.  A dog is not something you can throw away or cancel when you get tired of it.  There are 3 questions everyone should ask before buying a dog.   Will a Dog Fit into My Current Lifestyle?   You may not have young children now, but you might have them in the future.  They might not even be your own; they can come into your life as grandchildren, nieces, nephews, neighbors, etc.  Children can be dangerous to dogs.  They can hurt them by hugging them too tightly, picking them up the wrong way, dropping them, particularly if it’s a puppy or a toy breed.   Dogs can also be dangerous to children.  They can knock a child over, scratch or bite them, when they engage in rowdy play or even just act on their natural instincts.   It’s a good idea to have a family meeting with everyone in your household and get their approval, even if you’re going to be the main caretaker.  Buying a puppy as a surprise gift is generally a bad idea because people usually need to mentally prepare themselves for the lifestyle changes involved in accepting a dog into their lives.   Can You Afford a Dog?   Even if you’re getting your dog for free, keep in mind the many expenses involved in caring for a dog.  You can expect a medium-sexed dog to cost you upwards of $500-plus a year in dog food, tags, veterinarian visits and grooming.  Bigger dogs will cost even more.   The first year of owning a dog is usually the most expensive.  Puppies need extra care and supplies to start a good life.  Bowls, housing, grooming tools, and a collar and leash are all things you’ll need to get.  You may want to even consider training classes and fencing for your yard.   If money is tight for you right now, it may not be the best time for you to buy a dog.   Can You Handle the Responsibility of a Dog?   When you buy a dog, you are responsible for his life.  He deserves to be properly fed, housed and cared for.  A new puppy will need to be taught how to behave or else he’ll grow up to be as much of a nuisance as any normal teenager.  It takes time and patience to teach him in a fair and humane manner.   Dogs also need regular exercise and mental stimulation.  They can’t do this on their own.  Even with a huge fenced area, they won’t run around and play unless someone takes the time to play with them.  If not, they might vent their frustration by digging up your garden, chewing on the fence or just barking for the sake of barking.   A dog has a relatively simple list of needs: Food and water Vet care Safety Shelter Exercise Training If a dog’s needs aren’t provided for it may result in your dog: Chewing furniture Urinating or defecating where she’s not supposed to Biting Barking constantly Stealing food A Moment’s Paws   If you’ve answered these 3 questions and you think you’re ready for being a dog owner entails, you can expect a lifetime of rewards.  If you gloss over these questions expecting that things will just come together, you’re making a big mistake.  It’ll likely be a great inconvenience and hassle to you and your dog will suffer the consequences of your bad decision.