What to Consider Before Adding a New Dog to the Family
So you’ve been eyeing those adorable puppy videos on Instagram at 2 a.m. again, and now you're convinced it's time to add a new furry family member. As your local Northville, MI dog trainer, we’re here to help you make the right move - not just an impulsive one.
Bringing home a dog is a big decision (bigger than choosing the right sippy cup or picking a name for your kid’s stuffed llama). It’s not just about finding “the cutest one,” it’s about setting your family up for success and sanity. Here's what to really think through before you take the leap.
1. What Stage of Life Is Your Family In?
Puppies are amazing, but they’re also tiny chaos fluffballs with razor teeth and zero chill. If your toddler is still launching applesauce at the walls and you’re averaging four hours of sleep a night, a high-energy puppy might push you over the edge. Consider your daily routine, energy levels, and how much time you actually have for training and enrichment.
If you’re in a busy season of life, you might consider adopting an older dog with some manners, or working with a dog board and train program to get your pup off to a strong start without wrecking your calendar.
2. Breed and Temperament Matter, A Lot, A Lot
Look beyond the literal puppy eyes. Ask yourself: Does this dog match your lifestyle, not just your Pinterest board? Are you okay with daily jogs in the snow for a working breed, or are you more of a "walk the cul-de-sac in Crocs" kind of family?
As a trusted Ann Arbor MI dog trainer, we’ve seen it all - sweet Midwest families with herding dogs who try to "round up" their kids, or chill families totally overwhelmed by a high drive pup. Research breed tendencies and energy levels, and don’t be afraid to ask a pro for help.
3. Training Starts the Day You Bring Them Home
Whether you're going the rescue route or getting a puppy from a breeder, one thing’s for sure: puppy training starts immediately. That doesn’t mean jumping into obedience drills, it means setting up clear boundaries, building trust, and guiding good behavior from day one.
Crate training, potty training, socialization, and leash manners don’t teach themselves. (Wouldn’t that be nice?) A trainer can walk you through it, or take the reins with a board and train program, to get that head start while you keep your house in one piece.
4. Don’t Romanticize the First Few Weeks
Those “gotcha day” photos are cute, but let’s talk real talk - the first few weeks can be messy. Your kids may lose interest fast. Your shoes may not survive. Your schedule will change. And you’ll probably ask yourself “What did we do?!” at least once.
That’s normal. It’s ok.
But with the right tools, structure, and support (hint: that’s us, contact us here), this transition can be smoother and even… kinda magical?! Setting realistic expectations now saves stress later.
5. Get Support So You’re Not in This Alone
If you’re adding a new dog to your family, don’t DIY it all. Enlist help from professionals who specialize in puppy training, behavior shaping, and family dynamics. Whether it’s private lessons, group classes, or a dog board and train option, having a plan makes all the difference.
We’re here to help families in and around Ann Arbor make the transition with less frustration and more fun. Because the goal isn’t just to have a dog, it’s to have a great family dog.
Ready to take the leap?
Let’s talk about how we can help you choose, raise, and train your next four-legged family member. Contact us today for puppy training options or to learn about our board and train programs near Ann Arbor, MI.
