Here’s What You Should Know Before Bringing Home a Pup
Adding a dog to your household can be one of life’s most special experiences but before you fall for those puppy-dog eyes, it’s important to think through a few crucial factors. From choosing the right breed to understanding the lifelong financial commitment, a little upfront planning can make all the difference in your journey with your new pup.
Choosing a Breed: Be Cautious of Stereotypes
Many people choose a breed based on a cute encounter at the park or a childhood memory of a beloved pet. While that’s natural, it’s not usually an accurate approach. Every breed comes with its own set of instincts, behaviors, and health predispositions — all shaped by what those dogs were originally bred to do.
For example, a herding breed might instinctively try to round up children, while a scent hound could be more interested in following every interesting smell than coming when called, or a dog bred to guard might never stop barking. No amount of training can completely erase these ingrained tendencies, so finding a breed that matches your lifestyle is critical. If you live in a small apartment and want a low-maintenance companion, an energetic working dog won’t be your best fit.
Taking the time to learn about a breed’s natural drives, energy levels, and potential health concerns can set you and your dog up for a much happier, healthier life together. Paction has a comprehensive list of Dog Breed Guides which also outline the specific health issues common in the breed and detail the background of each particular breed.
Budgeting for a Dog: More Than the Initial Costs
Owning a dog comes with a financial commitment that can catch many first-time owners off guard. A recent study from Paction found that over two-thirds of Canadian dog owners never actually calculated the long-term costs before adopting their pets. And while some families get by spending less than $2,000 a year, others see their expenses climb past $12,000.
Food, veterinary care, grooming, training, and pet insurance all add up quickly. Large breeds, in particular, tend to cost more to feed and often require more frequent grooming. Unexpected medical expenses can also arise, which is why enrolling in pet insurance while your dog is still young and healthy can be a smart move.
Want a clearer sense of what dog ownership might cost your family? Tools like Paction’s Dog Cost Calculator can help you make realistic financial plans before you commit.
Should You Adopt or Shop? Understanding Rescue Dogs
There’s been a growing movement encouraging families to adopt dogs from rescues and shelters rather than buying from breeders — and there are definitely wonderful rescue dogs in need of loving homes. However, adopting isn’t always as straightforward as some might think.
When you adopt, you often have limited (or no) information about the dog’s background. Some rescue dogs come from other regions, potentially bringing health risks that aren’t common in your area. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t adopt, but it does mean you should be prepared for surprises and invest time in understanding your new pup’s history, behavior, and potential health needs.
If you decide to adopt, work with reputable rescue organizations that prioritize transparency about a dog’s medical history, temperament, and any known behavioral challenges.
Why a Responsible Breeder Matters More Than You Think
For those who choose to buy from a breeder, selecting the right breeder is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. A responsible breeder does far more than just produce puppies — they carefully screen for genetic health issues, provide critical early-life experiences, and work to ensure their puppies grow into well-adjusted adults.
The first 8 weeks of a puppy’s life play a huge role in their future behavior and ability to handle stress. Breeders who prioritize early neurological stimulation and raise their puppies in enriched, nurturing environments set those pups up for success. On the flip side, puppies raised in poor conditions, such as puppy mills, often face lifelong behavioral and health challenges.
When visiting a breeder, look for red flags like overcrowded conditions, reluctance to show you the parents, or pressure to make a quick purchase. If you feel tempted to “rescue” a puppy from a bad situation by buying it, remember: doing so only fuels unethical breeding practices and encourages them to continue. Browse Paction’s list of reputable breeders who are always available to answer more questions.