I am a dog lover. Growing up, we always had at least one dog in the house at any given time, but there were so many of us that the family pet was the family pet. We used to feed our dogs anything that we didn’t want to eat and some stuff we shared because we loved them. These are such bad and dangerous habits to begin that I’m surprised any of our dogs even survived! Who knew dogs should never, ever eat chocolate or onions? I didn’t know that until about 10 years ago, and I haven’t been a kid for awhile. I swear I remember feeding our Springer Spaniel some Nestles candy, and she lived. Was it because the amount I gave her wasn’t lethal? Who knows, but since I know better now, I will pass onto you some of my newfound knowledge of dogs.

None of the information contained in this blog should take the place of consultation with any dog expert. My knowledge comes from books, personal experience, and a fantastic dog trainer who set me straight about dogs and packs. Also, it doesn’t hurt to watch “The Dog Whisperer” – check your local channels.

Before you bring home that cute dog you’re wanting, you should do some homework and background work first. Why are you getting a dog? Besides the obvious costs, what about the emotional costs, both to you and the dog? Dogs are very demanding creatures, but the rewards of their love and companionship is immeasurable. If you don’t believe that, just look into their eyes sometime when you’re feeling sad; they really do sense your emotions.

Question number one: where do you live? It’s the first question you must consider. If it’s an apartment, are you going to be able to get that puppy outside quickly to do its business when you’re house training? Will your landlord and neighbors who you share a wall with appreciate your new roommate? If you have a yard, is it fenced in? How high is the fence? What material is the fence made of? If it’s not a sturdy fence, can Rover eventually just knock it down and terrorize the neighborhood? These are important factors to review.

Question number two: what size is your house or apartment? How much room do you honestly have? Dogs need room; even the little dogs need room.

Question number three: what other humans live with you? Do they want a dog, too? If they don’t, you’ll have problems down the road during training. Do you have little ones? How little? Do you have overly rambunctious children that could possibly hurt the new dog? Though that sounds harsh, we all know someone who has a dog that just shouldn’t even have children. I won’t go there right now.

Question number four: final question for the day, how much can you afford? Doggies are not cheap. Their food, toys, snacks and vet bills cost a small fortune – and you have to always expect the unexpected, just like with children. When my husband and I shop at those large chain stores catering to pets, I realize where the funds have been going instead of refinishing my basement. But it’s more than a fair trade-off. I wouldn’t trade my “Googlybear” dog for anything in the world. That’s why I have him. He’s a member of our family.

Now, do you still really want one?

Part II next week.