Cold feet about adopting a dog?

Question

I've been wanting a dog for a very long time. I have a great apartment with a grassy yard that's pet-friendly, a job that pays well that's 5 minutes away from home, and the time in afternoons and weekends to commit to a dog. I'm going to be a senior in college. I've been waiting for the right time and I think its the right time... but I'm scared about this huge commitment! Everyone makes it seem like getting a dog will ruin your life and that you can never travel again or go out for drinks with your friends on a Friday night. I know it's a big deal but an adult, housetrained dog is not a newborn baby that must be tended to 24/7.

My boyfriend and I went to the shelter yesterday with no intention of falling in love with a dog. The moment we saw him in the kennel, I knew he stole our hearts and we couldn't leave without taking him out to play. He was SO well behaved and sweet, and it just felt so right. He was everything we've ever wanted. The shelter staff also said that we were the first people who have shown any interest in him in the two weeks that he's been stuck in that shelter 💔 What should I do? And is it normal to be nervous and have cold feet about this?

Answer

First off, I'm not sure who you have talked to that makes it sound like a dog can ruin your life... but from my experience, that's the farthest thing from the truth.. my dog is my life. My husband and I got him at 6 weeks.. he is now almost 4... We are expecting our first child.. and I couldn't imagine life without him. Yes, a dog is a commitment.. however, we still travel, go places.. do what we want to do.. if he doesn't go with us, we either board him or have family watch him. It's a commitment, especially when they are young.. but in the long run, it can be the best decision ever...

Answer

If you feel in your heart that you could love and bond with this dog, get him. I got our puppy recently, I was nothing but excitement in the lead up. But when we bought him home i had serious doubts and severe anxiety. If you bring him home and feel overwhelmed, know the feeling is normal and it will eventually pass. 
❤️

Answer

I adopted a dog while in grad school! As long as you have the time to train them properly and play with them/take them for walks then you will love having a dog. I adopted mine against my parents wishes (they thought I was too busy) and honestly they love my dog more than me I think! She is so spoiled and my dad picks her up everyday to take her to the dog park to play. It's insane. She has been a blessing and helped me when I'm stressed. I saw her picture online and immediately knew I had to have her. I think you just know when you've found the perfect one :)

Answer

Get him! Yeah dogs are a little extra work but you can still have a life. It's ok to nervous with some extra responsibilities but it's worth it

Answer

Dogs are the best! Over the years growing up I've had 4 dogs. They are family. They certainly don't ruin your life. They are a responsibility. You can't leave them alone all day. There are people out there that should have any pets. But I think you should do it.

Answer

Omg just do it! That's so awesome I wish everyone that adopted a dog would put the amount of thought in it as you have. I am a dog trainer I own 12 dogs and have two girls my boyfriend has four girls two grand kids and two on the way. One of which will love with us. We also run a dog training business and we still find time to spend together and with each other. If you need training advice feel free to message me. Black pits especially take up to a year longer then any other breed to get adopted. The euthanasia rate for black dogs and cats is higher then any other. So just know you are doing the right thing and saving a life. Your new dog won't forget it.

Answer

My fur baby SAVED my life. 
My fiancé and I felt our home needed something new, something fresh, so we adopted our now 1 year old Lab/Pitbull mixed pup named Beth. 
Sure she's high energy, and a little spoiled at times but if I need to travel, I find a pet friendly hotel and bring her with or pay someone to come take care of her while I'm away. My dog filled a void in both my fiancé and my life. She has a personality of her own and I've never felt more accomplished in life than knowing we saved her life, just like she saved ours.

Answer

It's normal. It just means you know there is responsibility with being a good pet owner.

Dogs are WAY better than babies. You can go out drinking all night. He'll be fine (as long as he doesn't bark and annoy the neighbors). You don't have to worry about tiny puppy bladder either.

Yes if you're gone for a weekend to either take him or find him a sitter. But a sitter for a grown dog isn't such a big deal.

Do it. It'll be great.

Cold feet about adopting a dog?

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