Is it normal i really want a dog...but i’m worried

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10 Comments

Ever since I was a young kid, I’ve always wanted a dog. My dad had three dogs and I was (even though I was like ten) I was obsessed with training them and teaching them good manners. Plus I loved them, and they were always happy to see me. But I’d only get to see them every other weekend due to custody rights and what have you. However, They were my best buds when I was over there.
Anyway, after my dad died, my step mom took the dogs to indiana and I haven’t seen them since. But My grandparents had a guard dog that I would work with, until he passed away. Then, with my help, they got another one. It was important to get another dog fast, otherwise coyotes and bobcats would come around and eat the livestock they had.
So again, I took up training their new dog and I love him to pieces...but it’s their dog.

I really want my own dog when I move out and get my own place. But I’m scared that even though I’ve had these great experiences with other peoples dog, that my dog would somehow be terrible. I feel like that wouldn’t be the case, since I’ve already had so much experience with dogs. And I really want one, as a companion, and a sort of protection. But I’m nervous? Is that normal?

Voting Results
84% Normal
Based on 19 votes (16 yes)
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Comments ( 10 )
  • JD777
    5 years ago

    Your apprehension is normal for someone who’s thinking about it carefully. I applaud you for that! Good dogs and challenging dogs come from several things - training, environment, breed and good breeding to name a few. Sounds like you know enough to find a good dog for you (the right breed from a good blood line and reputable breeder) and train it right. Getting a rescue is a noble and possibly less expensive thing. But it’s a crap shoot whether the dog is going to be good or not. Just be sure you have the right place for the breed and can afford care, including vet bills. Other than that you sound like you’ll be a great dog person.

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  • Vvaas
    5 years ago

    sounds like you'd be a good dog owner, if you're having doubts though you could always contact a local dog trainer (that trains the way you approve of) to reassure yourself and your doubts

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  • Haddock
    3 years ago

    haha you sound like you could be a really good dog owner!
    Don't spoil him too much though or he will think he is the Boss and have you jumping around to fetch him snacks all the time! 🤣🤗

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  • ricoadoro
    5 years ago

    Big responsibility like having a child .

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  • CoolKober
    5 years ago

    I guess you have not enough confidence to take good care of a dog on your own because you have a responsibility for this routine, involving feeding, walking, training, and companioning. Actually, implementing those schedule can help you to learn on planning and be responsible for pets. What's more, the love your dog gives you can overwhelm your concerns and stress from life. However, it's significant to choose a trainable dog with good personalities. People love to choose a Golden Retriever and Yorkshire Terrier as their first dog, because they are friendly to the families and possess lots of energy. Also, these two breeds are the great options of service dogs, read more on finding their merits and facts:
    https://www.supportdogcertification.org/article/yorkshire-terrier-facts-can-yorkie-cutie-be-service-dog
    https://www.officialgoldenretriever.com/blog/management-training/can-golden-retrievers-be-service-dogs

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  • SwickDinging
    5 years ago

    This concern is normal for anyone who actually understands the huge challenges and responsibilities that come with dog ownership. That in itself makes me think that you'll be great when you have your own dog :)

    If you're really worried then don't get a rescue unless it's a puppy - I would normally always advise people to get rescues but since it's your first and you're nervous you want to avoid that extra baggage and behavioral problems.

    My only concern for you OP is that you sound as if you're planning on living alone. How will you balance work and the dog? If you work a normal 8 or 9 hour day then the dog can't really be left alone, especially a puppy. Be prepared to have to take time off work, pay a dog walker, buy expensive automatic feeding equipment etc.

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    • Anonymous Post Author
      5 years ago

      The field of work I’m going into is videography so I would be working from home a lot, much like what I do now, except I’d be on my own. But that’s a concern I hadn’t really thought too much about.

      I should consider that factor more.

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      • SwickDinging
        5 years ago

        If you work from home it will probably be fine.

        The only problem is if you want to go out for more than a few hours, or go on holiday. It's relatively easy to find dog sitters but they tend to be pricey.

        I'm sure you'll figure it all out though, and you seem to really love dogs so it will all be worth it. I always felt it was worth it and I can't imagine not having pets now, the pros really outweigh the cons for me.

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  • BlindSpot
    5 years ago

    Cross that bridge when you get to it. Even if it does turn out bad, you can always get another dog, or get support on how to deal with whatever your dog is presenting with.

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  • McBean
    5 years ago

    The breed is your most important indicator. Golden Retrievers are emotionally empathetic and will love you to pieces. Labradoodle mixes are smart, faithful dogs. Border Collies, and German Shepards are too smart. Stay away from them unless you live in the country and have got all day to train them.

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