You've always wanted a pet dog and you can almost see your new pet - chasing after Frisbees in parks, running like a mad creature in the sun, learning new tricks that make you laugh, throwing up outside your bathroom at 3 in the morning, chewing your rugs and carpets, shedding on every possible thing - thinking of all this, does getting a dog still sound like a good idea to you? If yes, then congratulations you have come to just the right place.

Here is what every dog-owner's (or pet-owner's) mantra should be: A dog is a living, loving, caring, hurting animal. If you are looking for a dog because you think that it will look great in your new car, then think again buddy - your new dog is just about to turn you life into a living nightmare! From tearing up that expensive leather upholstery to vomiting on your designer shoes - your pet dog is going to transform you from being a bachelor to someone who feels, acts and even thinks like a father of three! Remember, you are not buying yourself a watch. Your dog will be like your child - your child that can't speak. So, repeat this mantra a couple of times to prepare yourself. If you are a working person and work all day for six days a week, then you are going to end up with a unhappy and lonely pup on your hands. It isn't your puppies fault.

Personality Match

Choosing a dog is akin to the zen method of self-discovery. Until and unless you really know yourself, you are never going to be able to choose the right dog. For instance, an athlete would quite obviously prefer an active pup. A lazy person would probably go for a dog that doesn't need a lot of exercising. A touchy-feely, sentimental person would love to have a friendly dog. A stuck-up person would prefer to buy a dog that doesn't shed or bark too much. Choosing a dog is very similar to choosing a friend or a mate - you always go for a dog that suits you personality, or compliments it.

How Big is Your Place

Now that you have figured out what breed suits your personality, it's time to see if your dog will fit in with your living space. Before you go ahead and buy yourself a dog, first take a look at your living space. Ask yourself questions like - do you have enough room for a dog? Is your yard carefully fenced? Do you want a big dog or a teeny weeny little terrier? No matter how well a certain breed matches your personality, it is very important to make sure your living space matches it as well. It would be absolutely cruel to keep a big dog like a great dane cooped up in a tiny apartment all day long.

Next, ask yourself whether your schedule is suitable for a dog. Are you at home for a reasonable period of time during the day? How many times will you be able to take your dog for a walk? Remember that like humans, dogs also get lonely and if you are not going to be at home for days on end, your dog is going to get depressed. What's more, you might have to anticipate making changes in your lifestyle in the future. Are you planning on having children? Do you already have children? You don't want to get into an ugly situation where your child doesn't get along with your dog. Make sure you do your homework beforehand and talk to vets, friends, trainers and dog breeders to find out what dog will suit you the best.

Proper Care and Maintenance Affordability

Of course a dog isn't going to make you bankrupt, but owning one is indeed a big investment. Over a period of time, you can expect to spend as much money on your dog as you would on a decent car. But honestly, what would you rather own - a Lexus or extreme love?

The dog itself isn't expensive, but it is the taking care of the dog part that is more expensive. From dog food to veterinary expenses to other things like check-ups, spaying or neutering, flea and tick control, dental care, and so on, your dog is going to cost you a considerable amount of money. There are many places to go to if you are looking for a dog - from the animal shelter to a pet store and even breeders - your pet can be found just about anywhere!

Now that you know why you want a dog, you need to know what you are getting into beforehand. This article has focused on the unglamorous side of taking care of a dog and what you need to know before you adopt/rescue a dog/puppy. If you take good care of your dog and treat it the right way, you will be showered with love and affection. And, who doesn't want love, affection and companionship?