If he’s worried about the costs, point out that you can offer to cut back on your spending habits to cover food and puppy supplies. If he’s concerned it’s too much work, you might emphasize that you’ll take the lead to train it.
If you two ever spend long periods of time apart and your boyfriend gets bummed out, he may be happy to know that dogs can dramatically alleviate loneliness. [3] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source If your boyfriend has any kind of issue with mood swings, anxiety, or depression, getting a dog can help alleviate those feels and bring him a sense of calm. [4] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
Seeing and interacting with dogs actually causes (most) people to produce oxytocin, the hormone in your brain responsible for social bonding, relaxation, and calmness. [6] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
You could explain that you’d do the research when it comes to finding a dog and picking a vet. You might promise to train the dog, or find a trainer for the dog without your boyfriend’s help.
There are some upfront costs when you’re getting a dog. You’ll need a crate, treats, toys, leash, and initial checkups at the vet. You can save a ton by adopting a pet that’s already spayed/neutered, though! Food and treats will typically cost you around $250-700 a year. [9] X Research source Medical expenses can vary depending on the health of your dog, but you can plan on spending at least $700 a year for routine medical checkups. [10] X Trustworthy Source American Kennel Club The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source
You can even write it off like you’re just being playful. If he keeps asking why you’re sending him dog stuff, you might say, “Well, if I can’t get a dog I want to at least look at one 😊. ”
If allergies are an issue, look into terriers, schnauzers, and poodles. These breeds are typically easier on folks with a dog allergy. If you live in a smaller apartment or you’re a bit of a couch potato, look into getting an English bulldog, yorkie, bichon frise, or cavalier King Charles spaniel. They’ll still need regular exercise, but they won’t be pawing at the door all day trying to go play fetch in the park. If noise is a concern, Bernese mountain dogs, basenjis, and Shiba Inus are all known for not yapping or barking. If he’s worried about behavioral issues, boxers, English spaniels, poodles, and Shih Tzus are all known for being easy pups for first time owners.
If you and your boyfriend like to take walks but you’re worried about going out at night, muggers tend to avoid going after folks walking a dog.
If you do this, don’t go to the shelter acting like you just want to look and then start pestering your boyfriend to adopt a dog. He won’t appreciate it, and he’ll push back reflexively. The goal here is to get him to realize he wants a dog on his own.
Keep in mind, dog-sitting may be a better place to start if you have zero experience with dogs. Fosters typically spend at least a few weeks with foster homes, and they may be with you for months at a time. [16] X Research source
It’s totally okay to get a dog if you aren’t sure you’re ready for something more serious. This is an exceptionally common thing, and a dog can actually be really good practice if you want kids![18] X Research source
The reverse may be true as well (although it’s unlikely). If he doesn’t want it to be your dog, tell him it can be his if that’s what he wants! This may just be a boundary and responsibility thing for him. If he knows it’s always going to be your dog, he won’t freak out as much about being forced to take it on walks, or taking it to the vet.
