Of course you want a Goldendoodle puppy. Who wouldn’t want one? They’re cute, cuddly, and incredibly affectionate. Deciding to get a puppy isn’t like deciding to buy a bicycle or new pair of shoes, however. You shouldn’t just get one because you want one. Puppies depend on you for their health and happiness. Getting a new puppy requires a significant commitment of time, money, and attention. And unlike that pair of shoes, a Goldendoodle puppy is going to be there to create fond memories with you for the next 12 years.
Here are a few things to consider to help you decide whether or not you should get a Goldendoodle puppy.
What are your long term plans?
There’s something to be said for living in the present, but you still have to think about the future, especially when you have a dog that depends on you. You can’t predict everything that will happen in life, but you may have a sense of where you want your life to go.
Before you decide to get a Goldendoodle, think about what life is going to look like you for the next five to 10 years.
Do you plan on going away to school or moving to a different state? Are you going to take a gap year and travel the world? Maybe you plan on changing careers or starting a family.
Consider your short-term plans and see if it’s a good fit for a dog.
Can you afford a dog?
The cost of a dog is more than just the initial price of a puppy. There are also shots, vet visits, flea and tick treatments, food, grooming costs, toys, treats, collars, leashes, training classes, day care, spaying or neutering, etc.
According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the annual cost of a large dog (dogs over 50 pounds) is $1,040.31. The first year cost of a large dog is $2,008.31.
Do you have enough space for a dog?
Goldendoodles adapt to their living situations. They would love a nice big yard to romp around in, but they can live happy lives in small apartments, too.
However, less space for a dog means that you have to take more walks and make more trips to the park. You also don’t want to leave your dog in a small apartment for eight-plus hours each day; if you work long hours, you need to make arrangements with a friend, relative, or dog-walker.
Is a Goldendoodle puppy right for your lifestyle?
Some dogs are great working dogs but bad companion animals. Some dogs fit great in your lap, but can’t keep up on your morning jog. Goldendoodles compliment practically any lifestyle. Whether you prefer to spend your time reading a good book at home, or run trails in the great outdoors, a Goldendoodle can fit right in.
Does everyone in your home want a dog?
It’s important to check with your significant other, kids, roommates, etc. before bringing a new dog into your home. Think about it this way — there might be some objections if you showed up one day with a human friend and said, “This is Spot. He’s going to be living with us now.”
Goldendoodle puppies are cute and wonderful, but you have to make sure that everyone in your home is on board for caring for a new puppy. Bringing a dog into your home is like adding a new member to your family.
Do you have the time?
Dogs require love, care, and attention their whole lives, but they need even more attention during their puppy years.
You have to help your puppy get accustomed to her new home. You have to put time in with your puppy for training. Then you have to make sure your puppy gets proper socialization; trips to the dog park, walks around the block to meet the neighbors, etc.
What are your work hours like? Do you have the flexibility to come home for lunch and spend some time with your dog? Do you have lots of commitments outside of work?
If you’re constantly on the go, wishing you had more hours in the day, you might need to wait until you have more time for a puppy.
Call us when you’re ready for a Goldendoodle puppy!
Only you know if the time is right to add a puppy into the mix. We’ll be here whenever you are ready! We are experienced and responsible Goldendoodle breeders located in Arkansas.
Take a look at our available Goldendoodle puppies, and give us a call at 501-514-1026, or contact Platinum Goldies online!