Every kid wants a puppy to love. The soft furry bundles nuzzling their leg on a cold winter’s night are difficult to resist. So it’s hard to say no when you look into those sad little eyes, the pouting grin, the little whimper of tears, the puppy’s not the child’s.

They may become your best friend and behave like a new baby, but don’t forget that they are living, breathing beings. The responsibility and cost of caring for them can come as a big surprise. Give these points some thought before you bring a puppy home.

You will be Responsible for the Dog

Domestic animals like cats and dogs depend on their owners, just like a newborn baby, for food, shelter, exercise and of course love and attention. Dogs left alone in your house quickly become bored and frustrated. They may annoy the neighbors with persistent barking or howling, or worse, take their frustration out on things in the home. An anxious dog can quickly destroy shoes, toys, even furniture.

There’s Nothing Cheap about a Dog

Dogs can cost your family thousands of dollars a year in added expenses. This money may be needed for your own survival. Here are some of the things to think about before setting up a corner for Rover.

Your first couple of hundred dollars will be spent just buying the dog. There will be several once-off costs – bowls, a leash, a crate, kennel, brushes and toys should last a while, although a puppy will outgrow some of them. Grooming products like shampoo will need to be replaced, but your biggest expense will be food. Depending on your choice of dog food, the bill can add up to several hundred dollars a year. We live in a gourmet world and if you want to show off to your friends that your dog has good taste, be prepared to pay extra.

Because pets don’t have health insurance, you will be responsible for their medical bills too. Dogs and cats need vaccinations, just like babies, spaying or neutering and of course other illness or injuries will need treatment from a veterinarian. More serious illnesses can quickly rack up huge vet bills too.

Before you take on the responsibility of owning a dog or cat, make sure you are willing to give the pet the loving care it will need. A dog will bring a lot of joy into your home, but a lot of time, work and money will be needed as well.

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