10 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Keep a Dog at Home! / What Are the Disadvantages of Keeping a Dog at Home?

Increased Responsibility
One of the most significant problems and drawbacks of keeping a dog is the increase in responsibility. Many people, due to lack of knowledge, are unaware of the responsibilities involved in dog care. Pets, like small children, become dependent on you. If your dog is not trained, it cannot understand your discomfort or anger. If you are someone who is very organized and structured, taking care of a dog can be difficult because they rely on you in every aspect.

Time Commitment
As you may know, dogs are very social animals. Therefore, you must dedicate a lot of time to them. Without proper planning, both you and your pet can suffer. Just as you allocate time to play, feed, educate, and train your child, you must also plan for your pet’s needs. Dogs, compared to some other pets, require much more attention and affection.
Keep in mind that you are not supposed to spend all your time at home with your dog, but you must allocate time for walks and play outside. If you neglect these aspects and fail to spend time with your dog, it may become anxious and depressed. Dogs are highly emotional, dependent, and attention-seeking creatures, which makes time commitment another disadvantage of dog ownership.

High Maintenance Costs
Owning a dog, like any pet, requires significant financial investment. You must consider costs for food, toys, annual vaccinations, vet visits, medications when your dog is sick, sterilization, and more. If you are planning to breed your dog or reconsider adopting, make sure to consult with a veterinarian.

Providing a Suitable Shelter
Preparing a suitable shelter and creating a sense of security, comfort, and rest is another important factor to consider before adopting a pet. Dogs, like any other animal, need a specific space for rest, and acquiring these supplies also involves additional costs.

Allergies and Sensitivity
One of the biggest problems and drawbacks of owning a dog is the potential for allergies. As mentioned earlier, some people’s immune systems react to pet skin, hair, saliva, urine, or feces. Without proper knowledge of your allergies, adopting a dog could cause problems and difficulties.
Dog allergies or allergies to other pets often present with symptoms such as red, watery eyes, a runny nose, wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, sneezing, itching, and rashes. If you have a history of skin or respiratory issues, it’s best to avoid keeping pets.

Risk of Toxoplasmosis
Sometimes, the feces of pets such as cats, dogs, and even birds can cause a disease called toxoplasmosis. This disease is caused by the Toxoplasma parasite and is commonly found in the feces of stray cats. Occasionally, when pets relieve themselves in the garden, the contamination can be transferred into the house, causing illness. This disease can be detected through a blood test.

Dog Dandruff Sensitivity
Dog dandruff particles can cause skin reactions like itching and rashes. However, regular house cleaning can significantly reduce these allergens. If you or anyone in your household has a specific illness, it’s better to reconsider keeping a dog.

Fear of Dogs in People
As you may know, some people are afraid of dogs. However, you cannot confine your pet because of this. As a result, people may avoid entering your home or ask you to keep your dog away. Dogs are playful and curious creatures, and they might approach your guests. This can cause discomfort for your guests and create tension.
Keep in mind that your dog might also feel uneasy around certain people. Be cautious of sudden movements and your dog’s reactions in these cases.

Restrictions on Visiting Certain Places and Traveling
Many dogs don’t like sitting in cars, making traveling with them difficult or nearly impossible. Additionally, certain restrictions on dogs entering stores and public places can force you to leave them at home. Ultimately, this may cause discomfort for both you and your dog. Therefore, limitations on entering various places are another disadvantage of dog ownership.

Social Activity Restrictions
Leaving your dog alone, especially for long periods (over 3 hours), is not advisable. If your dog is trained, you can take them along for walks or to meet your friends.
Without your dog and its care, you won’t be able to go on weekend vacations. Moreover, the restriction of dogs from certain locations can make things more difficult for you. So, before adopting a dog, consider these factors.