Are We Spending Too Much Money On The Dog? – Dog Training – Dog Trainer – Behaviorist
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Sam Basso
PHOENIX , AZ AREA: (602) 708-4531
OR, if you are out of this area, inquire about a telephone or e-Lesson
Email: [email protected]
How much money is too much to spend on a dog?
I really think that is the wrong question to ask. The correct question is what should I be spending on my dog to ensure my home is enjoyable to live in for the people and the dog?
A dog has needs that must be met. You should be spending adequate money on good nutrition, veterinary care, bedding, toys, bowls, leashes, collars, safety equipment, crates / kennels, daily exercise / socialization outings in various public settings, daycare / kenneling when you are out of town and can’t care for the dog personally, and training. If you are a cheapskate, meaning someone who has the money but just doesn’t want to spend it on the dog, then maybe you should find the dog a home where they love the dog. I don’t have a cure for your greediness. If you are financially unable to take care of a dog, then by all means find a new home for the dog by working through a reputable rescue organization (not a shelter if at all possible… many dogs are put to death in shelters).
If you live with someone who won’t care for your dog properly, you need to address what’s wrong in your relationship. Why are you with someone who is willing to be abusive to you or your dog? Your dog needs for you to be there for their needs.
On the other hand, you can spoil a dog with things. Making a dog morbidly obese with treats and lack of exercise is abuse. Getting a dog lots of things, but not spending time with them is also abuse. You can also use a dog as a shield, and an excuse for staying away from your partner. I’ve seen people get too involved with their dogs as a way of dealing with a bad marriage, and the dog is the tug of war toy between the warring spouses.
Having fun owning a dog isn’t abuse. There’s nothing wrong with getting a dog a costume for a charity dog walk, for example. There’s nothing wrong with getting a wide variety of toys, or turning your dog interest into a hobby and paying for training such as advanced obedience, agility, working dog trials, hunting dog work, dog sports, hiking, and so forth. So long as you are living within your means, then what’s the harm?
