Us Brits are a nation of dog lovers; in fact, around 33% of homes in the UK own a dog. Seeing friends and family with their own can leave us with puppy fever, however, getting a dog is a large commitment that requires careful consideration, especially when young children are involved.

If you’re thinking about getting your first family dog, we take a look at some of the main things to think about first.

Your current lifestyle

The most important factor to consider before getting any pet is your lifestyle, more so for dogs due to the level of care and attention they require. If you have a busy life, a hectic household, or long periods where no one is at home, a pup probably isn’t the best idea.

However, if you work from home and have time to properly meet their needs, then you’re in a much better position. You also need to factor in the cost of a dog – this will include things like a luxury dog bed, a tailored meal plan, and plenty of interactive toys. All in all, you’re looking at up to £2,000 per year, so think about whether this is something you can comfortably afford.

Age of your family

For starters, the older your children are, the better. Why? They listen to instructions much better, are more likely to engage safely with animals, and are more responsible. Ideally, your children should be above the age of six but the decision lies with you. Just be sure to consider whether you have the time to care for everyone – children are hard work as it is!

Very young children are unpredictable and more likely to frighten a young pup, especially one that isn’t properly trained yet. The last thing you want is for any bites or accidents to occur. It’s also worth noting that adult supervision is essential for all children, regardless of age.

Experience with animals

Consistent training and care are needed for our furry friends to thrive and develop. If you were fortunate enough to grow up with dogs in your family home, you’ll likely already have some skills needed for the task at hand.

Alternatively, if you’ve never previously owned a dog, it might be a bit of a culture shock for you. Consider asking a friend or family member if you can look after their puppy for a weekend first and see if it works for your family dynamic. This is a good way to assess if your children can handle having a pet in the house – they might be cute but they’re also hard work.