By Donna Newman

Contributing Writer

The CNYSPCA can be the most romantic place on earth. People come looking for a relationship, eager to make a connection and hoping to find “The One.” Eyes meet across kennel bars. Paws reach out to waiting hands. Heavy panting. Wet, furtive kisses. And before you know it, a long-term commitment is made!

It’s difficult to have a relationship with someone you’re not attracted to; the same holds true for a dog. People are attracted to dogs for a variety of reasons. Some people always want the same breed of dog; others always want a different breed. There’s no accounting for taste. You just want to make sure that the dog you’re attracted to is a good fit with your personality and lifestyle.

Before you choose a dog, do an honest lifestyle and personality inventory. How much time will you honestly devote to a dog? How much time and money are you willing to spend on training, exercise and mental stimulation?  You may be attracted to the intelligence and high energy of a border collie, but you may not have the time and inclination to give that breed the time and training that he needs. A couch potato pup is great, unless you expect him to go on hikes. Make sure that the dog you want matches your lifestyle.

When a dog goes to a home, everyone in the family is excited. Everyone wants to walk them and play with them and feed them. The dog is usually on their best behavior as well. It usually takes three to six months for a dog to feel comfortable in a home and to figure out who (if anyone) is in charge. The honeymoon period is wonderful — while it lasts!

After the novelty of having a dog wears off, reality sets in. The dog has needs that have to be addressed every day. He has to be fed, watered and walked every day — actually, several times a day. And, the dog is always there. Dogs make mistakes, have accidents and push boundaries. People get busy and lazy.

And, as in a romantic relationship, the very qualities that at first attracted you have now become a source of irritation. An affectionate, high-energy dog becomes needy and annoying. A sweet, mellow dog becomes dull and boring. Previously well-behaved dogs realize start behaving badly. That’s why training, limits and consistency are crucial. 

Every adoption is a new beginning. Dogs live in the moment, so you’re able to set the rules and boundaries for your new pet. Crate training your dog is crucial to keeping him safe and out of trouble when you’re not around. Using baby gates and keeping a leash on are useful when integrating a new dog into your home.

Keeping dogs off the furniture and out of your bed until they are trained is important as well. An effective trainer can solve many issues before they become problems.  A loving dog owner sets boundaries and limits and gives the dog the training that he needs to live happily in the home. 

Any successful, long-term relationship takes time and commitment, but the rewards are worth it. Ask anyone who’s in a happy marriage or anyone who has ever loved a dog.