When is a good age to get a dog?

Question

Hi, I was wondering when you think a good age for getting a dog for myself would be. I know they are a lot of responsibilty and hard work. I am not planning on getting one anytime soon, as I'm in college right now. But I would like to get one when I graduate in a few years. I plan on making a decent starting salary, so money shouldn't be too big of a problem.
Thanks,

Answer 1

Get it after you've graduated, gotten a job and "established" your lifestyle. You can't really put an age on it; Getting a dog is like having a baby, you need to be ready for the responsibility financially and emotionally.

Answer 2

I would say that now would be as good a time as ever. Although it would be easier on you to wait untill you graduate. Money should not really be an issue. I am in college right now too, and I got a dog about a year ago. So I know what it is like to not have money, but you can care for a dog with careful financial planning and if you look for low-cost vaccinations. Having a dog is sort of like having a baby, but not as demanding. If you are really that worried about it then get one after your graduate. Otherwise, you could get one now.

You do need to make sure to make time to give it exercise. That is the most key thing you must do in order to have a dog that isn't a terror.

Answer 3

Dogs are great companions, and although require a lot of attention and maintenance, there not as expensive to take care of. Depending on size 1 large bag of food should last a month, and after all the shots while still a puppy are taken care of then
unless dog gets sick which doesn't happen often, you would only be seeing the vet once a year for booster. I recommend going to SPCA or local animal shelter and getting a dog about 1 year old. That way all the expensive shots are out the way and the dog has been nurtured or spayed for free! Any age is OK, as long as your prepared to give it lots of love and attention!

Answer 4

I wouldnt get a puppy any younger then 8 weeks old cause after they are weened mom are still teaching them to be a good dog and other things and they need to be with litter mates for this long as well so they are socialized with people and other dogs,,, I hope this helps answer you question and good luck when you get your dog they are so much fun and like you said they are hard work but its well worth the work when you get a very best friend in the long run

Answer 5

A good age to get a dog is when you are old enough to take care of yourself first. Then when you can provide the dog with the necessary time...for a dog to be emotionally healthy...they really do require lots of time and attention. So until you have time to give, you need to wait.

Answer 6

Dogs appreciate a routine, so once you've settled into a steady job with regular hours it should be fine. My new puppy took several months to get used to my steady work routine, but once she realized when I'd be home she's been fine. I found that a dog isn't really a lot of "work", but it does take up a lot of time. But it's worth it.

Answer 7

Dogs are not a hobby--same as kids--they take a lot of your time and are a responsibility. Give it some thought before you commit.

Answer 8

I mean it's always nice to have a dog once they're really young so they're easier to train and show them tricks. Also they look at you as their parent. But I think older dogs are fine. They need love, too.

Answer 9

When you are responsible enough so maybe 11 or 12

Answer 10

only two times really...mostly so you have time for the dog.

1. when you are in grade school and can play with it all the time

2. when you are retired and can play with it all the time

by all means get a dog if you really want..but you won't have so much time with it, especially after college..I mean...dating,marriage, kids, work, friends...