Choosing the Right Dog Breed:
But Are You Even Ready For A Dog?

The decision to get a dog is a significant one that should not be taken lightly.


The Practical Standpoint
It is important to assess the feasibility of keeping a dog. Is a dog allowed at the place you live? Will the dog have enough space? Are you home enough to give the dog needed company? Can you afford to have a dog (supplies, vet bills, groomers)? Are you ready to devote enough time and money to teach, exercise and groom the dog?

The Emotional Standpoint
Remember that dogs need love, attention and care every day – rain or shine. They are very sentient beings that need nurturing and affection to thrive to their full potential. In some ways, dogs are like children. There are times when they will make your heart burst with pride and joy, but there are also instances when they will make you delve into depths of patience you never knew you had!

Golden Retrievers in particular crave affection, need mental stimulation and require grooming to keep their coats healthy and shiny. Whether Golden Retrievers are the right breed for you is discussed in a separate section.

Resist the Urge to Surprise Someone
Remember that surprising someone with a dog is never a good idea. A dog is not an "object" to be given to someone. Each person must think through their own situation, and honestly assess their ability to take on the required responsibility.

Don't get scared away from getting a dog!
Please don't get us wrong--we are not trying to scare you away from getting a dog. We are big dog fans, as you might have guessed!

But we simply want to ensure you understand that getting a dog is a long-term commitment and requires a lot of prior planning and forethought. Choosing the right dog breed comes later, first you must determine with certainty that your are ready to get a dog. Getting a dog when you are not ready is unfair both to the dog and to you.