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

1. Increased Responsibility

One of the significant issues and downsides of keeping a dog is the increased responsibility. Many people are unaware of the responsibilities that come with pet ownership. Pets, like small children, become dependent on you. If your dog is untrained, it won't understand your frustrations or anger. If you are highly organized and systematic, keeping a dog may be challenging because they depend on you for everything.

2. Time Commitment

Dogs are very social animals and require a lot of your time. Without proper planning, both you and your pet will suffer. Just as you allocate time for playing, feeding, and training your children, you must do the same for your pet. Dogs need more attention and engagement than some other pets. Remember that you should also plan time for outdoor activities and walks. Neglecting these needs can lead to sadness and depression in your dog.

3. High Maintenance Costs

Keeping a dog, like any pet, involves significant expenses. You'll need to budget for food, toys, annual vaccinations, vet visits, medication, spaying or neutering, and more. If you're not ready for these costs, reconsider getting a dog.

4. Providing Suitable Shelter

Preparing a suitable shelter and creating a sense of security, peace, and comfort is crucial before adopting a pet. Dogs, like any animal, need a specific place to rest, which also requires an investment.

5. Allergies and Sensitivities

A significant issue with keeping dogs is the potential for allergies. Some people's immune systems react to pet fur, skin, saliva, urine, or feces. If you have allergies or sensitivities, adopting a dog may lead to health problems. Allergies can manifest as red, watery eyes, a runny nose, wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, sneezing, itching, and rashes. If you have a history of skin conditions or respiratory problems, it might be best to avoid keeping pets.

6. Risk of Toxoplasmosis

Sometimes, the feces of pets like cats, dogs, and birds can cause toxoplasmosis, a disease caused by the parasite Toxoplasma. This disease is often found in stray cat feces but can also be transmitted through pets' waste in home gardens, leading to infections. Blood tests can confirm this disease.

7. Dog Dander Allergies

Dog dander can cause skin reactions like itching and rashes. Regular cleaning can reduce these allergens, but if someone in your household has a specific health condition, reconsider pet ownership.

8. Fear in People

Some people are afraid of dogs. You cannot confine your pet because of them, but their fear might prevent them from visiting your home or they might ask you to keep your dog away. Dogs are curious and playful and may approach guests, causing discomfort.

9. Restrictions on Entry and Travel

Many dogs dislike car rides, making travel difficult. Restrictions on dogs in stores and various locations mean you may have to leave them at home, causing stress for both you and your pet.

10. Limited Social Activities

Leaving a dog alone, especially for extended periods (over 3 hours), is not advisable. If your dog is well-trained, you can take them on outings and visits with friends. Without them, weekend getaways become challenging, especially with restrictions on dogs in certain places. Consider these factors before adopting a dog.