Owning a dog is a big responsibility. It takes a lot of money, time and patience. Although this may sound like something your mom or dad might have told you as a kid, it’s true. Owning a dog is similar to having a child in many ways. That dog depends on you for everything it needs to survive, such as, food, water, shelter, medical attention and love. So before you run out to adopt Fido from that shelter, there are a few things that should be considered.

Dogs can be quite expensive. According to the American Kennel Club, the average cost for the first year of raising small dogs was $2,674, medium dogs on the average, cost $2,889, the cost for large dogs is $3,239 and giant breeds such as Great Danes have an annual cost of $3,536. These numbers can vary greatly depending on the cost of food or vet prices. The amounts change dramatically if you add another dog.

In addition, it’s not uncommon when owning a dog to have unexpected costs arise. Dr. Louise Murray, vice-president of the ASPCA’s Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital in New York City states, “Owners will likely incur at least one $2,000 – $4,000 bill for emergency care at some point during their pet’s lifetime.”  Because of this, it is important to keep an emergency fund for medical expenses when owning a dog.

When it is time to move, searching for a place to live can be harder when you own a dog. According to New York Daily News, a monthly rental payment for dogs ranging from $10 to $50, is quickly becoming the norm, which can greatly affect the annual cost.

Apartment managers nationwide say they require some safety net against pet damage, while others won’t allow animals at all. Every year  countless numbers of dogs are rehomed due to their owners moving into a place that does not allow dogs.

Another big factor to consider when thinking about adopting a dog is time. Do you have the time needed to care for and socialize with a dog? Anxiety and aggression are very common in dogs who do not get enough socialization from their human companions. Thousands of dogs every year are brought to a shelter because their owners didn’t have enough time for them. If you are a person or family who goes away a lot for work or vacation it is almost impossible to bring your furry family member. This requires either finding someone to watch your dog, or take them to a boarding facility.  Both of these options can cause enormous amounts of stress for your dog, which sometimes can make them very sick.

I am a dog mom to three beautiful Pomeranians. When I decided to adopt them I did research on what to expect, as well as learning information on their breed, like the common health problems and personalities of that breed.

My whole life got flipped upside down when I took these three dogs into my life. I had to change my life in many ways to make sure they are taken care of. When I know I am going to be gone for a while I have had to make arrangements for them to be let outside and fed.

When money was tight I had to go without, so that my dogs could have what they needed. Because I made the choice in life to own three dogs, I cannot always live in the places I would prefer, but I would rather live in a cardboard box with my dogs, than live in a mansion without them.

They are a big responsibility, but they have brought so much joy into my life. So the next time you see an adoption flyer and want to rush out and save a dog, remember to do your research to see if you have the time, money  and patience to take on the responsibility needed to own a dog.