7 Things Couples Must Agree on Before Buying a Dog

Deciding to buy a dog together is a wonderful milestone in a relationship, but it also brings significant responsibilities that require clear agreements between partners to ensure a happy, harmonious home for your new furry family member. This comprehensive guide walks you through seven essential things you and your partner should discuss and agree upon before buying a dog.

1. How Will Day-to-Day Dog Care Be Split?

Sharing the joys of dog ownership also means sharing the less glamorous tasks. Agree early on who will handle daily feeding, walking, grooming, and cleaning up after your dog. Consider how this might shift with changing work schedules or life events to avoid resentment or gaps in care. For example, you might alternate morning and evening walks or split grooming responsibilities.

2. Who Makes the Key Decisions About the Dog?

While both partners should have a say in your dog’s wellbeing, it helps to decide who will be primarily responsible for key decisions such as choosing the vet, selecting the dog’s diet, or arranging insurance. Having a designated decision-maker can prevent confusion and ensure consistent care, but keep communication open and collaborative.

3. Who Takes Charge of Training?

Training and socialisation are vital for your dog’s happiness and your household’s peace. Decide who will lead training sessions and develop the structure, while the other partner supports and reinforces commands. Consistency is key, so it’s important that both follow the agreed training techniques to avoid mixed signals.

4. How Will the Finances Be Managed?

Dog ownership entails costs such as food, vet visits, grooming, and supplies. Discuss your budgets openly and decide how expenses will be split. Whether equal sharing, proportional contributions based on income, or another arrangement works best, having this in place avoids misunderstandings and financial strain.

5. How Will You Manage Holidays and Travel?

Owning a dog affects holiday plans significantly. Discuss options like taking your dog with you, organising trusted pet sitters, or using kennels. Agreeing on this beforehand helps prevent last-minute scrambles and ensures your dog is well cared for when you are away.

6. What Happens if Your Relationship Changes?

Though difficult to consider, planning for the possibility of relationship changes is responsible pet ownership. Talk honestly about who would keep the dog if you separated, how visitation rights might work, and how costs would be covered. Some couples even include pet ownership clauses in legal agreements for clarity.

7. Renegotiate and Review Agreements Regularly

The reality of life with a dog can bring unexpected challenges. Commit to reviewing and adjusting your agreements after six months and subsequently on an annual basis. Flexibility and communication help to keep your partnership and your dog’s care on track as circumstances evolve.

By agreeing on these key points with your partner before buying a dog, you’re setting yourselves—and your furry friend—up for a joyful and sustainable relationship. Remember, responsible planning is the foundation of happy dog ownership.

For finding a puppy, consider only reputable breeders or trusted rescue centres to ensure your puppy’s health and wellbeing.