Dogs should live longer

And then there are those moments when stains and sleeping in are really the least of my worries, because I’m driving home from the vet’s – without my dog, who has to stay there on a drip because he refuses to eat anything, even treats. This makes me think of all the beautiful moments with our dog, and the mere thought of never experiencing those moments again makes me miss them like crazy.

Good life lesson: respect for animals

My children had to learn from an early age that, although our dog’s good-natured, they shouldn’t stick their little fingers in his eyes or pull his tail. That when our dog curls up in this bed, it means he needs his rest. And that he needs to go out for a walk, even in storms and sleet.

Staying in bed’s difficult

Sure, my family life would be easier to organise without a dog. At this point, I have to mention our limited holiday options. The obligation to take our dog out every morning we spend as a family. No matter if we’re short on time or everyone’s in bed with a fever. But my life would also be so much less lively. Long before my first «real» baby was born, I spent my nights under the stars with him until he was house-trained. I’ve taken our dog on many walks through the most beautiful landscapes. When we communicate in nature without words, an invisible bond of connection between us, it gives me a feeling of energy and warmth.

You can’t be a couch potato when you have a dog

Looking after a dog’s time-consuming. But it also has to be said that there are a few hard facts in favour of dog ownership. It’s been proven that daily exercise is good for you, both physically and mentally. When everyone’s getting grouchy in the house, «I’m taking the dog out» is enough. The ground under my feet, the fresh air in my lungs, the ever-excited dog leading the way: clearing my head in this way every day does me the world of good. With him, I don’t question whether our lap of the field has a place in everyday family life. Our dog has to go for a walk three times a day, period.

The dream of owning a dog

The friend I mentioned at the beginning said she feared that she would one day regret not acting on her dream of having a dog. At the same time, she’s aware of the immense responsibility owning a dog means – for a long time. If you write a list of pros and cons, it probably balances out (see below). Ultimately, the question of dog ownership is a very personal matter. I understand when people decide against it (like my colleague Martin). If in doubt, it’s probably better to give it a miss, when you read how many animals end up in animal shelters in Switzerland (linked page in German).

Why I’d recommend it:

• Fresh air and exercise, several times a day.
• Going for a walk creates social contacts, also with people outside your own bubble. A sense of community soon develops among dog walkers.
• You’re less alone when you have a dog. Dogs are loyal companions, and are almost always in a good mood.
• Dogs also want to be challenged mentally, and children are often motivated to play search and retrieve games with a dog, for example. Older children can also attend training classes with their dog.
• If you have a passion for dogs, are willing to learn how they communicate and engage with their ways, you can learn a lot and build a bond that gives you the strength you need when being a parent gets challenging.
• There’s something very calming, comforting and meditative about stroking a dog and having them nearby.
• Children learn how to treat animals with empathy, and develop a sense of responsibility for living creatures that need our protection.
• Lots of liveliness around the house, and precious moments when your dog and children are playing or snuggling together.
• You experience illness and death, and inevitably learn how to deal with them.
• If the dog’s house-trained, socialised, trained and not ill, they often simply run alongside you as a loyal, uncomplicated companion. But getting there takes time and patience.
• Dogs also make vacations even better, for example in the mountains or on a dog-friendly campsite).
• Gives your day structure and rhythm: your dog always has to be fed and walked at the same times if possible.

Why it’s not for everyone:

• Financial burden due to vet or insurance costs, emergencies, food, dog tax, dog training. According to Swiss Animal Protection (linked page in German), a dog costs an average of 1,500 to 3,000 francs a year.
• Emotional worries and organisational challenges when your dog’s ill: being immediately available to drive to the vet’s in an emergency isn’t always easy with young children.
• Deep sadness in the event of death: dogs have an average lifespan of 12 years. That’s far too short for a family member, and for me is the most difficult part of having a dog.
• Besides beautiful encounters, there are also difficult ones: it’s not always love at first sight between doggos and their owners.
• Staying out late in the evening or sleeping in becomes even more complicated than it already is with children.
• You have to rely on others when you’re away from home, or only choose holiday and trip destinations that allow bringing your dog.
• In addition to social contact and rest periods, a dog also needs physical and mental exercise. This takes time – a rare commodity in everyday family life.
• More dirt at home: mucky weather’s brought inside, dog hair lies around and, if your dog’s eaten something they shouldn’t or is sick, sometimes you end up with vomit on your floor.
• Also has to be compatible with your job: a family member should be able to take your dog with them or work from home.