Thinking About Adopting a Puppy?

Here are a few things to consider:

Time Intensive and Sleep Depriving

Puppies need a huge time commitment from their owners. They can't be left alone for more than 4-6 hours per day or their emotional and behavioral development suffers.

House-Training

Puppies need trips outside every 2 hours, and at least a couple of trips during the night, to be properly house-trained. Pups can't physically "hold it" for long. Expect cleanups!

Socialization

Puppies must be exposed to all sorts of sights and sounds while young to help them grow into well-adjusted adults. If you don't properly socialize a puppy, you could end up with a shy, fearful, or even aggressive and dangerous dog.

Independence Training

Puppies are used to snuggling up and playing with litter mates night and day. When left alone, they whine and squeal for attention and if you give in, they will have trained you, rather than you training them.

Obedience Training

Puppy class and basic obedience is a must. You need to lay the foundation for a well-mannered adult.

Chew Training:

Puppies need to chew on things. They are teething and learning how (and how hard) to use their mouths. You need to puppy-proof your entire home: no shoe, book, remote, cell phone, or electrical cord is safe.

What are you getting?

With puppies, you can't be sure how big they will grow or what their adult exercise need and temperament will be.

Thinking of maybe adopting an adult dog instead? Here are some things to think about:

Adult dogs are easier to fit into into your lifestyle and schedule, but still require an investment of your time and energy -especially when you first bring them into your life. Many adult dogs in shelters have some history of house-training. If not, with consistence, you can generally house-train an adult in just a few days. Many adult dogs are already well socialized, although shy dogs require a greater commitment. Adult dogs may also need some independence training when you first bring them hime, but they tend to settle far quicker and easier than puppies. Adults need training too, and we strongly recommend classes based on positive-reinforcement methods. Adult dogs usually have less desire to chew than puppies, and their chewing needs are easy to manage. However, many still do have an innate desire to chew, so don't give them free run of the house until you're sure they won't chew. Finally, with adult dogs, you know the size, appearance, and personality. Is he a lap dog? Does he require daily marathon exercise sessions? You won't be taken by surprise.

Average Pet Care Costs:

Before adding a new member to your family, it is important to make sure you are financially prepared for pet guardianship. Unfortunately, inability to afford an animal is one reason dogs and cats find themselves homeless in the first place. Use the chart below as a guide to help create an annual budget for you and your pet. -Items are in US dollars, and should only be used as a guide.

*Annual exam and medical costs are for the estimated costs for necessary vaccines, physical exams, and other needed items. Visits to the emergency vet typically begins at $100. We recommend having a plan to pay for the emergency services, such as pet insurance and savings account.

Some additional Expenses to Consider:

* Boarding, Pet Sitting or Cost of Traveling with Your Pet

*Special Dietary Needs Depending on Animal

*Damage Repair and Replacement

Source: San Francisco SPCA