Pros of smaller dogs: Easier to travel with, can be picked up, lower cost associated with grooming/ food, less time needed to bathe/ brush if long coated, potentially less fall risk when leash is pulled

Pros of larger dogs: Less physical strain associated with reaching collar/ when applying leash, ability to jump onto higher surfaces than small dogs, can provide increased benefit as a service dog due to their ability to reach higher surfaces/ objects

Dogs with long fur and dogs that shed will require the following:

1. Regular brushing/ trips to groomer

2. Longer time spent bathing

3. More product used in bathing process

4. Requirement of additional house cleaning due to shedding

5. Consideration of weather

A younger, high energy breed will require more frequent physical activity, play, and mental enrichment. If not provided, the dog may demonstrate inappropriate behavior or weight gain.

Puppies require more frequent bathroom trips, more physical activity/ mental enrichment, and vet visits for regular vaccine regimines as compared to adult and senior dogs.

It is important to consider the dog's use. If the dog will simply provide companionship, trainability is not as important of a consideration as compared to dogs that will become service or therapy (e.g. dogs trained to provide comfort to others) animals.

According to USA Today, "the average annual cost of owning a dog is $376 a month or $4,512 a year, according to a recent survey of 1,000 U.S. dog owners" (Gollub & McGinley, 2023). Before adoption, individuals should consider their financial ability to care for the pet throughout its entire lifespan.