The Question That Started It All. Shall I Get a Dog?
The first time my daughter asked, “Papa, can we get a dog?” I laughed nervously. I had just started a new job in the U.S., we were renting a small duplex near Houston, and I was still figuring out the difference between Walmart and Walgreens. A dog? Really? I grew up in a society where keeping a dog inside the home wasn’t common. So, naturally, I was hesitant. But in suburban Texas, dogs were everywhere - at the park, in every backyard, even in grocery store parking lots, sitting in SUVs like they owned the place.
This post isn’t just a pros-and-cons list. It’s a story - an honest account from an immigrant dad who eventually said yes to dog ownership, and why that decision changed our family in the best ways possible.
Am I Ready for a Dog? The Cultural and Practical Truth
If you’re from a South Asian or even a Middle Eastern or East Asian household, you know what I mean. Dogs were often seen as street animals, protectors - not cuddle companions. When my mother-in-law visited us in Texas and saw Ella, our Labrador, sprawled out on the living room couch, her look of disbelief was almost comical. “You let her on the furniture?” she whispered, as if she’d walked in on me committing some small act of rebellion. I nodded. She sighed, but then softened - offering Ella a biscuit straight from the chai tray. Progress.
But here’s the thing: what seems odd at first becomes normal surprisingly fast. In our neighbourhood, dogs aren’t accessories; they’re seen as full-fledged family members. They appear in Christmas cards, get special “doggy birthday parties,” and sport adorable Halloween costumes. We gave in because of our kids. Their faces would light up whenever they saw a neighbour’s dog. My older one even sent me a voice note from her mom’s phone on “Why dogs will make me a better human.” And she wasn’t wrong.
Here’s what changed for me by saying ‘yes’ to the question ‘Shall I get a dog?
- The girls used to squabble much more, but with a dog around, their shared attention fostered teamwork - they learned how to negotiate walks, take turns feeding, and even collaborate during bath time.
- Voluntary screen time dropped as backyard play and indoor fetch took center stage. There’s a certain magic in watching kids giggle as their furry friend chases a tennis ball or “helps” with homework by lying across the math worksheets.
- Responsibility blossomed. Even my youngest, who once struggled to remember basic chores, now rushed to fill Ella’s water bowl and remind me when it was time for evening walks.
- Our family routines tightened up: dinner together (with Ella strategically placed under the table, hoping for a stray meatball), early morning walks, and calm bedtime cuddles. Life felt a little more purposeful in the presence of a creature absolutely dependent on our care.
But above all, what I found most surprising was how our new four-legged addition changed the emotional rhythm of our home, and especially the impact on the kids. On tough days, Ella sensed the mood - whether it was offering her head for a gentle pet when the girls were sad, or padding softly beside me during moments of quiet stress.
Of course, none of these positive changes came magically or without friction. There were early struggles - odd smells, muddy paw prints, nights of barking at distant sirens. Family visitors occasionally raised eyebrows or offered gentle advice on how, in “the old country,” dogs belonged outside. But over time, these reactions faded, replaced by appreciation for the warmth and softness Ella brought into our home.
Deciding to get a dog, especially when it goes against ingrained norms and expectations, is more than a trivial household choice. It’s a step into a wider world of empathy, adjustment, and growth. For us - five years in - it’s a decision we celebrate daily.
Pros and Cons of Getting a Dog: Honest Insights for Families
Welcoming a dog isn’t just adding a furry friend to your family. It revamps your routines, priorities, even your social circle. Here’s an honest look at what families, especially newcomers to dog ownership, should consider.
THE TIME FACTOR - Commitment From Day One
- Training takes effort. Potty accidents will happen. Walks won’t walk themselves. Be ready to invest at least 1–2 hours daily, especially in the beginning.
- You’ll find yourself rethinking errands, weekend plans, and even occasional spontaneous outings. Life gets a little less unpredictable, but also more stable for your children.
THE EXPENSE COLUMN - Ongoing Costs, Not Just a One-Time Fee
- In addition to Adoption or purchase fees, and initial setup costs (crate, bowls, first round of shots, microchipping), ongoing costs need to be factored in. From food and grooming to vet visits and toys - it adds up. We spend around $100–$125 monthly. It’s manageable, but it’s there.
- Money-Saving Tips: Buying in bulk, keeping it simple with toys, and regular preventive healthcare help avoid larger bills later. Consider pet insurance if your budget allows; it can ease the burden of big vet bills.
THE MESS FACTOR - Embrace the Chaos
- Let’s be honest: dogs bring a certain “lived-in” charm to a home. Your Swiffer will get a promotion. And yes, your sofa may never look the same. But you learn to love the chaos.
- Paw wipes at the door, bath routines after the park, and a sense of humor about drool and dog hair become daily essentials.
THE TRAVEL PUZZLE - Plan Ahead, all the Time
- Weekend getaways and family vacations involve extra logistics. For us, travel became more intentional, and ultimately more memorable (potty stops in rural Texas, anyone?).
- Some families choose boarding; others prefer to bring their dog along for the adventure. Evaluate what suits your lifestyle and stress levels.
At times, the responsibility can feel overwhelming. Sick days, puppy teething, or the heartbreak of an elderly dog’s declining health are all part of the journey. There are periods when you might question your decision - like cleaning carpets at midnight or canceling a weekend trip because your sitter canceled. These are normal and part of the experience.
But here’s the flip side. Dogs are intuitive - they sense when you’re sad or anxious, and provide comfort in small, wordless ways. That constant presence, the wagging tail at the door, and the shared joys (and exasperations) bind the whole family. Is dog adoption worth it? Totally.
Excellent Family Dogs for First-Time Pet Parents
Some dogs vibe better with first-time owners, especially those balancing kids and careers. Based on both research and personal experience, here are a few breeds known for their temperament and adaptability:
GOLDEN RETRIEVER
Temperament: Loyal, patient, and affectionate.
Size: Medium to large (55–75 lbs)
Grooming: Regular brushing needed due to long coat and moderate shedding.
Why Great for Families: Known for their calm demeanour and love for children. They're smart, obedient, and rarely aggressive.
LABRADOR RETRIEVER
Temperament: Friendly, outgoing, eager to please.
Size: Medium to large (55–80 lbs)
Grooming: Moderate shedding; weekly brushing.
Why Great for Families: Labs are gentle with kids, intelligent, and easy to train. They’re playful yet patient, and they thrive on human companionship.
CAVALIER KING CHARLES SPANIEL
Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, adaptable.
Size: Small (13–18 lbs)
Grooming: Regular brushing; prone to matting.
Why Great for Families: Small enough for apartment living, but playful and sociable. They bond well with all ages and love cuddling.
HAVANESE
Temperament: Playful, affectionate, and sociable.
Size: Small (7–13 lbs)
Grooming: Regular brushing; low shedding.
Why Great for Families: Havanese thrive on companionship, are gentle with children and relatively easy to train. Their small size suits apartment living.
BEAGLE
Temperament: Curious, friendly, energetic.
Size: Small to medium (20–30 lbs)
Grooming: Low maintenance; sheds moderately.
Why Great for Families: Excellent with children and other pets. They’re playful and thrive in active households.
COLLIE
Temperament: Intelligent, gentle, and loyal.
Size: Medium to large (50–75 lbs)
Grooming: Regular brushing; moderate to heavy shedding
Why Great for Families: Collies are exceptionally gentle and protective, highly trainable, eager to please, and form strong bonds with their owners, making them trusted and reliable companions.
Depending on your situation, living arrangement and resources there are a number of breeds of excellent family dogs to adopt as your first furry family member. Bonus Tip: Visit local shelters. Many mixed breeds are just as loving and need homes too.
Questions to Ask Before Adopting a Dog
Ella made us more patient. More present. She listens without judging. She became my jogging buddy, my daughters’ secret keeper, and my wife’s foot-warmer on chilly mornings. But before you bring home a pup, ask yourself:
- Who will handle daily walks, feeding, and vet visits? Enthusiasm wanes at 6 am in the rain; so plan realistically.
- Are your kids ready for responsibility? Not just the fun parts. Scooping poop and cleaning up accidents is a family activity.
- Are you financially ready for recurring costs? Can you manage surprise vet bills or ongoing purchases?
- What are your travel plans, and how flexible can you be? Dogs affect road trips, holidays, and even weekend getaways.
Bringing a dog into your home is one of the most rewarding and life-changing experiences. But it only works when the whole family is ready for the responsibility and the shift in lifestyle.
Should I Get a Dog? Yes! Life’s Better With Paw Prints on the Floor
You’ll sweep more. You’ll plan a bit more. But you’ll also laugh more, cuddle more, and feel more connected as a family than you ever imagined. It’s a big step, but if your heart is leaning toward yes, here’s some advice:
- Start with research (you’re doing that already)
- Talk to families who’ve done it
- Foster a dog for a trial run
- Visit local adoption events
P.S. If you’re ready, check out these trusted and recommended adoption places Petfinder, Adopt-a-Pet and ASPCA Adoption Center
Thank you for reading - and good luck on your journey to potential puppy parenthood!
