As soon as you close the door, you’re suddenly attacked by an onslaught of licks, to your ears, and your face, and you’re fairly sure you were licked in the mouth. The tension that has been building in your body throughout the day suddenly goes away. Dogs can be the best things on the earth and even can be your best friend. But as always, all pros come with cons. There are so many reasons to get a dog, but also so many reasons not to. If you’re thinking about getting a dog, but not too sure whether it’s worth it or not, this article is for you.

Pros:

Dogs can be amazing for multiple reasons. To start, they can be your best friend. If you’re struggling, are in a dark time in your life, or just don’t have friends (or rather consistent friends), then a dog is the best thing for you. You can hear many stories of how a person got a dog and it pulled them out of their depression. Not only that, but you have an instant playmate.  Said an adult, “It’s really nice having a dog because when you walk in the door, no matter what’s happened, they’re always happy to see you. It’s like they won the lottery just by having you walk in the door.”

So, overall, dogs can be pretty freaking amazing. They can help pull you out of any emotion you’re feeling (negative), and can make you feel like you’re actually wanted (if you’re lacking said feeling).

Cons:

I’d say that the worst part about owning a dog is their leaving or dying. You can get very attached to your furry friends, and it can be very hard to let them go. But, when they do have to go, just know that (as long as you didn’t abuse them) you were the best part of their life. They lived for only about a decade, but that decade was likely filled with joy and pure happiness with their favorite human: You. Not only that, but they can be a complete MESS. From having “accidents” (peeing or pooping) on the floor to tearing up your favorite stuffed animal or even your couch, they can be a pain to have to buy so many replacements for, especially if the item has emotional value to you. Finally, for the cons, these animals can get hurt and can rack up a lot of money for vet bills. Just beware.

Tips:

Honestly, I ain’t got much for the tips. Just don’t abuse your dog. Make sure to do PROPER RESEARCH (calling just about everybody out) and get the right materials. From my experience, make sure to train your dog as soon as they get home (or at least start. You can’t train your dog to do something in one day, at least when they’re young). It’s way too difficult to attempt to train them when they’re, say, 7 years old (calling myself out on this one).

So, overall, it’d be a pretty good idea to get a dog. They can really improve your mental health, although they can be a complete mess. And just remember to do your research before you get a dog to avoid any major difficulties. If you’re interested in getting a dog, visit your local animal shelter or you can visit a variety of sites such as petfinder.com.