Before you get a dog

Dr. Lowell Tyler, DVM, offers the following advice to consider before getting a dog:

Find out what you want, and get a pet that fits your needs. He used a popular breed – the labradoodle – as an example: “Do you have the time to exercise a dog who’s got two hunting breeds in his DNA? Can you afford grooming?”

Border collies are considered the smartest dog. “Are you ready for a dog that’s smarter than you?”

People who travel frequently might want to consider getting a cat.

People who are petite or over 65 should not get a great dane.

A pet is at least a 15-year commitment. Some dogs live until they’re 20, which you never used to see, Tyler said, because people are taking better care of their animals.

Don’t think a spay or neuter is too expensive at $200, especially considering you’ll spend $10,000 on dog food throughout your dog’s life.