Adding a new member to the family can be one of the most fun challenges and getting a puppy is a great way to learn how to handle responsibilities, especially for kids. Owning a pet costs time and money but the experience will be worth it.

Before you get a puppy, you might want to look at all of the different breeds to see which breed is the most suitable for you.

For instance, if you’re living in an apartment, a big dog may not be the best option because they need lots of room to get walk around and exercise. Taking him to a dog park is definitely an option but it would be much easier to walk into the backyard and play with him there.

There are different groups of dogs such as herding, hound, and sporting. Dogs from the Toy group such as a Chihuahua or Maltese would be ideal for an apartment living space because of their small size.

According to akc.org, some of the top family friendly dogs include the Golden Retriever, Labrador, Beagle, Bulldog, and Newfoundland.

Each breed has different traits. If you’re looking for a dog that has a lot of patience, you might want to look at the Newfoundland.

If you prefer a friendly, outgoing breed, a Golden Retriever or Labrador may be the dogs you’re looking for.

Whether you plan on buying a puppy or rescuing an older dog from your local shelter, both will require lots of attention and supplies.

Some of the basic needs for a puppy include food, a collar with identification tags, a bed, puppy shampoo, vaccines, and insurance. “Puppy proofing” your home should also be something on your radar to keep him safe. Most importantly, they need some of your love and time.

According to petinsurancequotes.com, “The average pet insurance policy costs $41 per month. However, averages are not a good indication of how much pet insurance really costs because rates vary depending on your pet’s breed, age and where you live.”

Toys should be included as well so your puppy won’t be bored and chew on household items when you’re away! Treats are also a must have because it will be easier to train them.

Most grocery stores carry these supplies but pet stores such as Petco or Petsmart have a larger variety of brands.

Signing your puppy up for training classes is an option, but training him at home is easier than you think and you will save lots of money. Petsmart has a training program available as well as a grooming center and a veterinary clinic.

Usually you would sign your puppy up for classes with more extensive training such as getting him comfortable with running up and down ramps besides having him sit and roll over.

Puppies will need to be fed three times a day and should be fed specifically puppy food to get all of the nutrients he needs to grow. As he gets older he can be weaned to eat twice a day. Averagely, after one year he can be fed adult dog food but some larger breeds can still be fed puppy food for up to fourteen months.

Your pup will also need daily exercise to keep a healthy weight. Taking him to the park or even walking him around the block once a day will let him get the exercise he needs.

According to akc.org (American Kennel Club), “electrical cords are a huge hazard for puppies because they are likely to chew them. This can cause burns in their mouth, or even worse, electrical shock.”

Puppy proofing your home is important to keep him safe from any injuries.

“Smaller hazards — such as coins, paper clips, and rubber bands — should be put away, as should expensive items, like jewelry, so the puppy won’t chew on them” (akc.org).

Any sharp objects should also be out of reach from your puppy.

From puppy-proofing, to training, to including lots of play time, puppies are a lot of work. But as he gets older, you form a close bond with your new family member and you benefit from learning how to handle responsibilities.