by Rebekah Gresens

Created on: June 08, 2009   Last Updated: June 10, 2009

I own three Golden Retrievers and I will say that having a dog is one of the best investments a person could ever make. However, there are many factors to take into account when thinking about whether or not it's the right time for you to get a dog.

Here are a few thoughts and suggestions to help you in the decision making:

1) Think about the long term. When you buy that puppy, it could live to be 10, 12, or even 16 years old. Are you willing to invest that long into your dog? If not, then don't get one. There are already too many animals that do not have good homes and end up in a shelters. I also feel that it is very stressful for your dog as it will not understand why it has to go away.

Your dog will become one of your family members and it will also be hard for your family. Sometimes situations do arise where you many have to give your dog away. If this happens, then commit to finding a good home where it will be well cared for.

2. Think long term again...you may bring home a puppy, but how big will it get? One of the dangers with buying a dog is some people don't think about how big the dog will get. They just love the puppy, but as it gets older and bigger they'll just send it outside with a leash around a tree and that's where it stays.

Ask your breeder how big could this pup get? And remember, just because the parents may be an average size does not mean your dog will be the same; it could grow bigger. As an example: I bred my dogs twice. They are both average size for a Golden Retriever (female: 50-60, Male: 65-80), but some of our puppy buyers have told us that they're dog is over 95 pounds! Sometimes it's in the genes and it may just come out with your pup.

3. What kind of breed or age will fit your family. It is very important to try and find out as much about the breed of dog you are getting as possible. This will prepare for the type of dog you will be living with for the next 10-15 years. What kind of illness is the breed susceptible to, how active they are, how much care they will need and will you be able to fill those needs.

4. Finances. Purchases that should last a long time are: a dog bed, food dishes and a dog leash. Yearly expenses will include: dog food (depends on your dog...with three Goldens I go through a 44 lb. Bag of food in three weeks...give or take a few days), a visit to the vet at least twice a year, chew toys, other fun types of toys that will keep your puppy busy, and dog treats (lots and lots of these!).

There may be other

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