Dogs are amazing companions, and we can’t blame you if you’re considering getting one for yourself. They’re adorable, loving, and loyal creatures who can brighten up even your darkest days.
However, owning a dog is not a walk in the park since dogs are like tiny humans, but with 4 legs, a hyperactive tail, and a cute boopable nose.
Like babies, these amazing animals need a lot of care and attention. Else, they become sad, irritable, and sometimes rebellious.
And trust us, you don’t want that to see that.
So, if you’re up for it, here are the 5 things you need to know, before you get your first puppy in Singapore:
Breed Matters
Getting the first cutest puppy you’ll find is not the right way to choose the dog you’re getting.
Remember, you’ll be spending more than 8 years with your new pet, that’s why you need to make sure you’re getting the right one.
It’s very important to know that dog breeds have their own distinct personalities. Hence, they’ll have different temperaments and care requirements.
For example, Labrador Retrievers are very smart, loyal, and obedient. But they’re high energy dogs who need frequent walks. On the contrary, bulldogs and pugs are extremely low energy that they’ll be spending most of their days sleeping around.
As a dog owner, you’ll have to ask yourself if you have the time and energy to regularly take your dog out for a walk, or are you better off with a couch potato?
Another consideration you’ll need to think of is allergies. Some dogs shed fur regularly which can trigger your allergies.
So, if you have any kind of allergic reaction to fur, you’ll be better of getting a hypoallergenic dog breed like a Bichon Frise or a Miniature Schnauzer.
Lastly, one thing you need to consider when choosing a dog breed is where you live. Since Singapore is strict with dog ownership regulations, you need to know what kind of breeds you can have, especially if you live in an HDB property.
Make sure you explore different dog breeds that match your personality and lifestyle before deciding which puppy you’ll get.
Adopt or shop?
The next thing you need to consider when getting your first puppy is whether you’re buying a puppy or adopting one.
Both ways have their advantages and disadvantages. So, here’s a quick rundown of the advantages and disadvantages of adopting and shopping for a new puppy:
Shopping
Advantages:
- You get to choose a puppy who doesn’t have habits yet.
- You can be sure of the lineage and history of the dog.
- You can be assured of the dog’s health.
Disadvantages:
- More costly than adopting.
- Can have wait times depending on the breed.
Adopting
Advantages:
- Cheaper than buying.
- Saving a life of a dog.
- Already done with the upfront care needed (deworming, vaccinations, sterilization, and microchip implants).
Disadvantages:
- Unknown history.
- You’re getting an older dog who might already have bad habits/trauma which can be challenging for new dog owners.
Regulations and limitations
Living in Singapore entails a lot of pet ownership regulations and limitations. These are put in place to protect both pet owners, pets, and the community.
Here are some of the most important rules of dog ownership that you need to know before you get a puppy in Singapore:
- Dogs older than 3 months must be microchipped and licensed. Licenses must be renewed annually.
- People living in HDB premises are only allowed one dog of an approved breed.
- Those living in private residences can have up to 3 dogs. If you want to have more, you’ll need written permission from the Director-General of the Animal and Veterinary Service.
- All dogs are required to be properly leashed in public areas. Some dogs would also need muzzling depending on the breed.
- You need to inform the Animal and Veterinary Services if your dog is missing or has died. Moreover, you need to notify them for any change in ownership and address of the dog.
- Untrained dogs who cause nuisances or public disturbance can have their licenses revoked.
Your responsibilities as a dog owner
As mentioned above, owning a dog is like having a baby because of all the responsibilities that come with it.
Aside from the basic care and abiding with the laws and regulations by the Animal and Veterinary Services, here are your most important responsibilities as a dog owner:
- Training your dog to be disciplined and obedient.
- Taking your dog to exercise and walk regularly.
- Socializing your dog with other dogs.
- Tracking their vaccination schedules.
- Neutering your dogs to keep them healthy and prolong their life.
- Making sure they have a safe space where they can rest and be comfortable. Ideally, a spot where they have a cozy dog bed.
Remember that getting a dog should be a mutually beneficial experience for you and your pet. As a fur parent, you should strive to give your pets the best life that they deserve.
Costs of owning a dog
Owning a dog in Singapore can be costly, that’s why it’s important for you to know how much you stand to spend regularly for your pooch.
Upfront Costs:
- Deworming - $50
- Vaccination – up to $80
- Microchipping – up to $80
- Neutering – up to $500
- Dog Licensing – up to $70
- Initial Supplies – up to $1000
Regular Upkeep
- Monthly Food Supplies – starts at $40
- Annual Vaccination – starts at $35
- Annual Deworming – $50
- License Renewal – starts at $14
- Vet Visits – starts at $40
- Grooming – starts at $20
Now that you know everything you need before getting a puppy in Singapore, we hope you find the right pooch for you! We promise that becoming a fur parent is one of the best things that’ll happen in your life.
