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So, you and your partner are head over heels in love. You’ve started finishing each other’s sentences, taking cute selfies, and maybe even discussing what your future together might look like. And then, the idea pops up—“Let’s get a dog!”
It sounds like the perfect next step, right? A furry little bundle of joy to cuddle, take on walks, and post adorable Instagram stories with. But before you start picking out names and shopping for matching dog sweaters, take a deep breath. Rushing into pet parenthood might not be the romantic dream you imagine. Here’s why you should slow down before committing to a four-legged family member.
1. Dogs Are a Huge Responsibility (Like, Seriously Huge!)
Sure, you both might be super responsible adults, but owning a dog is a full-time commitment. Puppies need constant attention, training, and supervision, while adult dogs require daily walks, proper nutrition, and regular vet visits.
Are you prepared to handle poop emergencies at 2 AM? How about surprise chewed-up shoes or the occasional indoor “accident” on your brand-new rug? Unlike houseplants, dogs don’t survive on occasional watering and sunlight—they demand your time, money, and energy every single day.
If your relationship is still in the honeymoon phase, consider whether you’re ready to swap romantic last-minute weekend getaways for scheduled dog-walking duties.
2. Your Relationship Is Still Evolving
New love is exciting, and everything feels easy. But relationships naturally evolve, and so do individual priorities. Adding a dog too soon might test your partnership in unexpected ways.
Who’s waking up early for the morning walks? Who’s handling potty training? What if one of you wants the dog to sleep in the bed while the other insists on crate training?
Even small disagreements can turn into heated debates, and suddenly, you’re fighting over a Labrador Retriever like it’s a child custody battle. If you’re still learning each other’s quirks and pet peeves (pun intended), maybe wait a little longer before making a long-term commitment together.
3. Travel and Spontaneity Take a Hit
Remember those last-minute road trips and spontaneous date nights? Well, with a dog, those become a little trickier.
Dogs require constant care, meaning you’ll need to either bring them along (which isn’t always possible) or find a reliable pet sitter. Want to fly off for a romantic getaway? Better check if your destination is dog-friendly, or be prepared to fork out extra cash for a boarding service.
If you both love adventure and flexibility, consider whether you’re ready for the responsibility of making sure your pup is safe and happy every time you step out the door.
4. Financial Stress Is Real
Dogs aren’t just cuddly, adorable companions—they’re also walking, barking expenses.
Between food, grooming, vet visits, training, and emergency care, pet ownership can add up quickly. That’s not even counting the cost of a pet-friendly home, pet insurance, or replacing chewed-up furniture.
If you and your partner are still figuring out shared finances, introducing a dog into the equation might create unnecessary financial stress. Can you both comfortably afford unexpected vet bills without arguing about money? If not, it might be worth waiting until your budget is more stable.
5. What Happens If You Break Up?
Nobody wants to think about breaking up while they’re in a happy relationship, but life happens. And when it does, who gets the dog?
Custody battles aren’t just for kids—dogs become part of the family, and deciding who keeps them can be heart-wrenching. If one person moves out and can’t take the dog, or if you have differing opinions on pet care post-breakup, things can get messy fast.
If you’re still in the early stages of your relationship, waiting until you’ve built a more solid foundation could save you from dealing with the heartbreak of losing both your partner and your pup.
What Should You Do Instead?
Try a “Test Drive” First
Instead of committing to dog ownership right away, consider dog-sitting for a friend or fostering a pet for a few weeks. This will help you both get a taste of the responsibilities without a lifetime commitment.
Get a Low-Maintenance Pet
If you really want to care for something together, try something simpler—like a fish, a hamster, or even a low-maintenance cat. They still provide companionship without the intense responsibility that comes with a dog.
Wait Until You’re Ready
If you both still dream of owning a dog together, set a timeline. Make sure you’re both financially and emotionally prepared before diving in. Trust me, a little patience now will save you a lot of stress later.
Final Thoughts
Getting a dog as a couple sounds like a fairytale—but without the right preparation, it can quickly turn into a stress-filled reality check. Before making the leap, make sure your relationship is strong, your finances are stable, and your lifestyle can handle the commitment.
And hey, if your love is meant to last, waiting a little longer to get a dog won’t change that. In the meantime, enjoy your spontaneous adventures, uninterrupted Netflix marathons, and mornings without having to scoop poop in the backyard.
Happy dating—dog-free (for now)!
