Reward Canine - Before buying a dog

• Are you able to keep and look after a dog for the next 12-15 years?
• Can you afford to keep a dog? Can you afford to pay for any emergencies that could occur? Or can you afford pet insurance (approx $300-400 per year)?
• Are you able to walk the dog (at a place where they are allowed off leash) - every day for the next 15 years?
• Are you allowed dogs where you live?
• Have you got a securely fenced yard?
• Are you likely to move - would you be able to take the dog with you?
• Does everyone in the household want a dog?
• Are you able to find someone to look after the dog while you are on holidays? Or even better take the dog with you?
• Have you considered what would happen to the dog should you be unable to care for it?
• Does anyone in the household suffer from asthma/allergies? Would they be able to live with a dog?
• Will the dog be alone for less than 8 hours a day? This includes all time where the dog is physically separated from you (also when the dog is in the yard and you are inside).
• Have you got time for the dog? Time for training, walking, feeding and cuddling?
• Are you disciplined enough not to overfeed the dog?
• Are you willing to take on the 'leader of the pack' role and train the dog?
• Are you willing to spend time and money upfront to make sure that you get the dog that is right for you?