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Responsible Dog Ownership - Starting from Scratch - Is a Dog for YOU?
Local Government
Responsible Dog Ownership
Starting from Scratch - Is a Dog for YOU?
The average lifespan of a dog is 10 years. This means dog owners need to be prepared to make a long-term commitment.

To be a responsible dog owner, you must first ask yourself whether a dog is suitable for you. Be honest about yourself and the changes you are able to make to look after a dog. The bigger the dog, the greater its demands will be.

A dog is for life!
  • Do you have the time for a dog? Dogs require time for socialisation and training.
  • If you have children, you will need to spend extra time with the dog and your children to ensure your children understand how to ‘read’ the dog’s behaviour. And remember, young children should never be left unattended with a dog of any age.
  • Can you afford a dog? Vets advise that the average cost of owning a dog is about $1500 per year for routine care and feeding, particularly in the first year of life.
  • You should also carefully consider the breed, age and sex of the dog most suitable for you.
When choosing, you also need to be aware that some dogs are considered “restricted breed dogs” and subject to special legislation and banned from being imported into Australia.

Restricted breeds include: dogo Argentino (Argentinean fighting dog); fila Brasileiro (Brazilian fighting dog); Japanese tosa; Perro de Presa Canario; American pit bull terrier and pit bull terrier cross breeds; and any dog of a mixed breed that visibly contains any of these breeds.

Choosing the right dog
  • Your family and friends may be able to provide you with information to help you select a suitable dog for your lifestyle.
  • You can also search on the Internet for information. Some sites, such as the Petcare Information and Advisory Service at www.petnet.com.au have a ‘Selectapet’ function to help you pick an appropriate breed.
  • You should try to ensure that you get your dog from someone who will be available to answer any future queries about your new pet.
  • You should be aware of the approximate cost involved in keeping a dog.
Remember, choosing the right dog is only half of the solution - YOU are the other.
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