Many parents find themselves being asked over and over, “When can we get a dog?” Most adults realize how much of a responsibility a new dog or puppy can be, but for kids the following quiz can be a real eye opener!
Parents can help young children by reading the questions and totaling the answers. Older kids can do it themselves.
Read each question. Then circle T for true or F for false. See below to total up your score and see whether or not you might be ready for a dog!
1. If I get a puppy, I won’t mind if he play bites, jumps on me, and sometimes knocks me down. T / F
2. If I get a dog or puppy, I won’t mind walking him outside, even if it’s raining or very cold or hot outdoors. T / F
3. If I get a dog or puppy, I will keep my toys neat and off the floor at all times so he doesn’t chew them. T / F
4. If I get a dog or puppy, I will play with him every day for at least 1/2 hour so he gets exercise and attention. T / F
5. If I get a dog or puppy, I don’t mind helping out by scooping poop. T / F
6. If I get a dog or puppy, I will help by feeding him and giving water. T / F
7. I will help by practicing obedience training every single day with the dog or puppy. T / F
8. I will be responsible about shutting doors & gates to keep my dog or puppy safe. T / F.
9. I don’t mind that the dog or puppy will take up lots of Mom & Dad’s attention. T / F.
Now count the number of T’s you circled and find your score below.
8 or 9 T’s- You might be ready for a dog or puppy.
5 to 7 T’s- You’re not ready yet, but maybe next year.
0 to 4 T’s- No way… you’re not ready for a dog at all!
Seriously considering getting a dog or puppy? Consider a “trial run.” Offer to watch a friend or family member’s dog for a week or weekend and see how things go. It can be a real eye opener for you and for your kids! Some rescues also now offer “foster weekends” or weeks, where you can take a dog home for a short period of time. This gives the dogs the opportunity to get out of the shelter environment and experience living with a real family, and can also be a great way for you to see how having a dog would go with your family!
