Down And Dirty: The Truth About Dogs

After working at a dog kennel for over 4 years, I’ve seen it all. Big dogs, little dogs, skinny dogs, fat dogs, old dogs, young dogs — you name it, I’ve probably seen it. Between my work and my home life, I’m pretty much surrounded by the canine kind (my family likes to joke that I never go anywhere without my dog pack — not a false statement). I have learned a lot about how dogs act, how they think and behave, and how to handle them — let me tell you, it has not been easy.

Most of the time, I have to be willing to get dirty.

I am under the impression that, 9 times outof 10, people have no idea what they’re getting into when they decide to get a dog. I mean, don’t get me wrong — dogs are great and all, but they are A LOT of work and it’s not all fun and games.

So in an effort to impart some of my doggy knowledge unto all you hopeful puppy-lovers, I give you “the truth about dogs”.

It’s true. Sure, they’re so cute and cuddly and so fluffy you want to die, but they’re also disgusting. The big ones slobber a lot, and the small ones have the worst breath that you have ever smelled in your life. They get gross stuff caught in their fur, roll around on gross things in the yard, and eat anything and everything (only to get sick later, which means you have to clean it up!). For all of you dog-owners out there with the little purse dogs who have their own wardrobes: I’m sorry, but yes — even you’re cute little fur baby will get gross.

2. They are high-maintenance.

“Oh, this is YOUR bed? I’m not moving.”

My dogs are more high-maintenance than the Kardashians (which says a lot). They won’t go potty outside if the weather isn’t to their liking, because it’s too hot or too rainy or too whatever. They like they’re food to be fresh and won’t eat it if it’s been sitting out too long, the same with their water. One time, my dog Gibbs sat in my room and cried because his blanket wasn’t spread out on my bed for him to take his nap on. Seriously?! Yeah, seriously.

3. They are expensive.

My dogs have to eat a very specific, grain-free food or they get sick. It costs me about $40 per bag, which lasts about a week and a half (plus treats because… well they just have to have those, okay?). Not to mention all the money that it takes to pay for their vaccines, vet visits, and grooming. I also have to buy new toys whenever they tear those up, and I would have to pay for daycare and boarding every so often but luckily that part is free for me (small job perk). Owning a pet costs a lot of money!

4. They require a lot of time and attention.

I’m just going to throw this out there… I have met so many dogs whose owners have done a HORRIBLE job taking care of them — not because they didn’t feed them well and give them affection, but because they never took the time to teach them how to behave. Here’s a little FYI for dog-owners everywhere: if you’re dog is bad at home, if he doesn’t behave for you, then he is probably going to behave ten times worse for anyone else. Training your dog is not just something that you should do to make your life easier, you should do it for your dog. They need boundaries and structure (just like kids) — they need to know what kind of behavior you expect from them.

5. They are a part of your family.

I firmly believe that when you decided to adopt a dog, you keep him for life. He is not a toy, he is a part of your family (part of your pack) and needs to be treated as such. You shouldn’t just get rid of him when you get bored, or when the going gets tough — he will be loyal to you, as long as you are loyal to him.

So, if you are thinking about adopting a dog, I say go for it! They are the most wonderful, loyal companions you will ever have. BUT they are a big commitment and a lot of work, so make sure that you’re ready. And if you are reading this and already have a dog, I hope that you will be able to learn something from this post and apply it today! Now get out there with your dogs and get down and dirty!

My babies! Gibbs (left) and Patches (right)

I hope that you’ve enjoyed reading! Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!

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