Getting a Dog: A Complete Guide for First-Time Dog Owners
Getting a dog is one of the most exciting decisions you can make. Dogs bring companionship, love, adventure, and endless happy memories. As a dog lover myself, as soon as I had my own place and enough money, getting a dog was first on my agenda as an adult. I’ve documented all my thoughts on getting a dog in my 20’s in this blog post.
However, dog ownership is also a major commitment that requires time, money, patience, and preparation. Whether you’re considering your first puppy, adopting a rescue dog, or simply exploring whether dog ownership is right for your family, this guide will help you understand everything you need to know before bringing a dog home.
Is Getting a Dog Right for You?
Before choosing a breed or buying dog supplies, it’s important to honestly assess whether now is the right time to get a dog. Dogs rely on their owners every day for:
- Food and fresh water
- Exercise & Daily Walks
- Mental stimulation
- Training and socialisation
- Veterinary care
- Grooming
- Companionship
Ask Yourself:
- Do I have enough time for a dog? Your dog will need at least a couple of hours every day of direct care such as walks, feeding, and grooming. On top of that they will want companionship & snuggles throughout the day too.
- Can I afford the ongoing costs? There can be large upfront costs when adopting a dog, but also monthly costs. We will delve into realistic costs further down this article.
- Does my lifestyle suit dog ownership? Is my work routine predictable enough to suit life with a dog? Is everyone else in my household happy with the decision to get a dog? Do I have family and friends to help care for the dog when I need support or go on holiday?
- Am I prepared for a commitment that could last 10–15 years or more? You know the saying – a dog is for life, not just for Christmas. Obviously life can throw unpredictable changes at us, but do you see your life being pretty stable for the lifespan of a dog? You can’t just up sticks and move country or anything crazy.
While dogs can fit into many lifestyles, being realistic about your circumstances helps ensure both you and your future dog are happy. One good way to ‘test drive’ dog ownership is to try your hand at looking after someone else’s dog. Check out this guide on everything you need to know to be a successful puppy sitter.
If you don’t know anyone with a dog, you can sign up for pet apps like Rover or Borrowmydoggy, and pet owners can get in touch with you for help looking after their dog. It could just be walking, feeding, or overnight boarding.
Choosing the Right Dog
Not every dog breed suits every household. Some dogs thrive in busy family homes, while others prefer quieter environments. Some need hours of exercise each day, while others are content with shorter walks and plenty of cuddles. Check out this round up of the Top 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds in the UK in 2025 for some initial research.
Try and chat to the people in your lives who have a dog already, and ask about their breed and behaviour. We ended up getting the same dog crossbreed as my husband’s aunt, as we spent time with this dog and really felt she would fit into our lifestyle. Don’t discount cross breeds either – My dog is a Springador – a cross between a Labrador and Springer Spaniel. Two wonderful dog breeds!
When choosing a dog, consider:
Energy Levels
Working breeds such as Spaniels and Border Collies often require significant exercise and mental stimulation.
Size
Large breeds generally require more space, larger equipment, and often have higher feeding costs.
Grooming Needs
Long-haired breeds and curly breeds will need regular brushing and professional grooming appointments, which is an added expense and hassle.
Temperament
Some dogs are naturally more independent, while others prefer constant companionship.
Family Compatibility
If you have children or plan to start a family, consider breeds known for their family-friendly nature.
Don’t forget to pick a great name for your dog too. Here is some inspiration:
Puppy or Rescue Dog?
One of the biggest decisions is whether to get a puppy or adopt an older rescue dog. There are pros and cons to both options. As a child growing up we had a lovely rescue dog. My parents knew this was the right decision as we could meet the dog and get to know its personality and how it felt about children before bringing it home. As an adult, my husband and I bought a puppy as we had a desire to train a dog ourselves.
Getting a Puppy
Pros:
- You can shape training from an early age.
- You experience every stage of development.
- You know the dog’s history from the beginning.
Cons:
- Toilet training takes time.
- Puppies can be destructive.
- Early months require significant supervision.
- It can take years before you have a calm adult dog
Adopting a Rescue Dog
Pros:
- Many rescue dogs are already house-trained.
- Adult temperament is often easier to predict.
- You provide a deserving dog with a second chance.
Cons:
- Some dogs may need extra support adjusting.
- Previous experiences can influence behaviour.
- Background information may be limited.
Both options can make wonderful companions when matched with the right owner.
How Much Does It Cost to Own a Dog?
Many first-time owners underestimate the cost of dog ownership.
Initial costs often include:
- Adoption or purchase fees
- Vaccinations
- Microchipping
- Bed and crate
- Lead and collar
- Food and water bowls
- Toys and enrichment products
Ongoing costs may include:
- Food
- Pet insurance
- Veterinary care
- Flea and worm treatments
- Grooming
- Training classes
- Dog walking or daycare services
Planning your budget before bringing a dog home helps avoid unexpected financial stress.
Read More: I’ve document everything I spent in my first year of dog ownership here. The final number might surprise you!
Preparing Your Home
A little preparation goes a long way. It will greatly reduce risk to your new companion, and stress for you if you prepare you home in advance to bringing home your dog.
Before your dog arrives:
- Remove hazards and toxic plants.
- Secure electrical cables.
- Create a quiet sleeping area.
- Stock up on essential supplies.
- Establish house rules with family members.
Think of preparing for a dog in the same way you would prepare for a new baby. The more organised you are, the smoother the transition will be.
Read More: How to Puppy Proof Your House
Dog Essentials You’ll Need
Every new owner needs some basic supplies before bringing their dog home. Here are is a list of essential items you should include in your shopping list:
- Collar and ID tag
- Harness and lead
- Comfortable bed
- Food and water bowls
- Appropriate food
- Crate or safe space
- Poop bags
- Grooming tools
- Training treats
- Enrichment toys
Having everything ready before day one helps your new dog settle more comfortably.
Read More: Puppy Essentials Buying Guide for New Dog Owners
Bringing Your Dog Home
The first few days are often exciting but overwhelming for both owner and dog. Make sure you have set up everything for your new dog and prepared your home. This includes getting their bed/crate ready, any puppy gates put up and dangerous items moved. Then you can freely allow your dog to explore.
When your dog first arrives:
- Keep routines calm and predictable.
- Give them time to explore.
- Avoid introducing too many visitors too soon.
- Start building positive habits immediately.
- Focus on trust rather than perfect behaviour.
Remember that settling into a new home takes time.
Training and Socialisation
Training begins from the moment your dog arrives. You want to establish good habits and behaviours as early as possible, to help your dog adapt to your expectations and lifestyle.
Key areas to focus on include:
- Name recognition
- Toilet training
- Crate Training
- Recall
- Loose lead walking
- Basic commands
- Handling and grooming practice
Equally important is socialisation. Introducing your dog to new people, environments, sounds, and experiences in a positive way can help build confidence and resilience throughout life.
Read More:
- Get Puppy Socialisation Right: 7 Tips for Visiting Family and Friends
- 7 Tips to Master Visiting Dog Friendly Cafes
- Are Puppy Classes Worth it? Everything you need to know
- Crate Training a Puppy: Your Guide to Success
Life Changes After Getting a Dog
Dogs become part of your everyday routine. You need to factor in walks, training and feeding into your busy schedule. When I first got a dog I worked remotely, and I underestimated how much having a dog in the house would impact my work life. Relying on a routine to ensure my puppy was stimulated enough really helped.
Read More: The Perfect Puppy Schedule for Remote Workers
There are also big life events that might need more careful navigation once you have a dog, such as:
- Holidays
- Work schedules
- Moving house
- Family changes
- Travel arrangements
Before getting my dog I ensured I had a a few family or friends I could rely on when I needed a helping hand. Then there are situations where we’ve used wonderful professional dog walkers or dog boarders too. For example when I had a baby we had a dog walker on hand to help out while I was recovering. Ensuring you have multiple options can remove a lot of stress.
While dogs require adjustments, many owners find that the rewards far outweigh the challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions About Getting a Dog
What is the best age to get a puppy?
Most puppies leave their breeder between eight and twelve weeks old. The first 8 weeks are critical to ensure they are getting milk from their mum, establishing their immune systems, and learning about canine communication from their mum and littermates. A reputable breeder will not let you take a puppy home before 8 weeks.
Is it better to get a puppy or an adult dog?
Neither option is universally better. The right choice depends on your lifestyle, experience, and preferences.
How much does a dog cost each month?
Monthly costs vary depending on breed, size, health needs, and lifestyle. You will need to factor in costs such as their food, monthly flea/worm treatments, treats, grooming, and much more.
What should I buy before getting a dog?
Start with essentials such as food bowls, a bed, collar, lead, toys, grooming tools, and appropriate food.
How long does it take for a dog to settle into a new home?
Many dogs begin settling within a few weeks, although some may take several months to fully adjust.
Final Thoughts
Getting a dog can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. By carefully considering your lifestyle, choosing the right dog, preparing your home, and committing to responsible ownership, you’ll give your new companion the best possible start.
Take your time, do your research, and enjoy the journey. The right dog can become a beloved member of your family for many years to come.