Choosing a dog
What should I consider before getting my first dog?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Think honestly about your daily schedule and how much time you can realistically dedicate, your budget for both routine and unexpected costs, your living situation's suitability and stability, and your genuine interest in learning about training and dog behavior, since a first dog is as much a learning experience for you as it is a new addition to your home. Consider starting with an adult dog with a known temperament to ease the learning curve.
Time, budget, and living situation
Be realistic about your actual free time for walks, training, and general attention, and set a genuine budget that includes both routine costs and an emergency buffer for unplanned vet visits. Check that your living situation, including any lease terms if you rent, genuinely supports dog ownership rather than assuming it will work out.
Your own learning curve as an owner
As a first time owner, you will be learning alongside your dog, from reading its body language to understanding its specific breed traits and needs, and this learning process takes real time and patience. Reading up in advance, and being willing to ask a vet or trainer questions rather than guessing, makes this curve considerably smoother.
Choosing a dog suited to a first time owner
An adult dog with a known, moderate temperament, rather than a very high energy breed or a puppy, often gives a first time owner the best chance of a successful, confidence building start, before considering a more demanding dog once you have some experience under your belt.
Building a support network in advance
Identify a vet, and ideally a trainer, before your dog arrives rather than searching in a panic later. Knowing who to call for routine questions, not just emergencies, makes the first few months considerably less stressful for a first time owner.
Give yourself permission to make some mistakes along the way, since even experienced owners continue learning throughout a dog's life, not just in the first few months.
Key takeaways
- Assess your real free time, budget, and living situation honestly before committing.
- Expect a genuine learning curve as a first time owner, and seek guidance when needed.
- An adult dog with a known, moderate temperament often suits first time owners well.
- Check your lease and living situation actually supports dog ownership before assuming it does.