For many households, pets are cherished family members, becoming more like honorary adopted children rather than just domestic animals. As such, it’s always exciting when it’s time to add a new dog or cat to the mix. But, with how much immediate love we give these animals, it’s easy to choose a pet based on our impulsive emotions rather than well-thought-out research. In fact, multiple reports have shown that a good chunk of pet owners fail to do any research before adopting, with only 54% of dog owners saying that they’ve “looked for advice or information before purchasing their dog” and 20% of pet owners revealing they didn’t do any research at all before adoption. These statistics are concerning, to say the least. 

While it’s easy to get wrapped up in the excitement of pet adoption, it’s important to remember that your decision will affect another living being’s life. These furry friends are long-term commitments that deserve the same respect and expected responsibility as adopting a human child. You should expect to take on a lot of responsibility and to have it demand your time, finances, and emotions. Since each breed is different and requires specific living conditions to thrive, it is crucial to do your proper research on both the species and the breed before adoption. Adopting an animal that is incompatible with your lifestyle runs the risk of neglect and animal abuse, no matter how unintentional. Here are some areas you need to consider before looking into adopting traditional pets like cats or dogs:

1. Energy Level and Exercise

For dogs, each breed has a different energy level and requires space and time accommodations to adjust for it. Shepherd breeds are a good example of dogs that are genetically more energetic, and require more space and time spent playing than breeds like Shih Tzus, which are more accustomed to indoor play and shorter walks. That being said, expect around 20-30 minutes of daily exercise needed for calm, low-energy breeds, and 60-120 minutes for energetic breeds. 

While cats are usually more independent, some breeds (e.g., Siamese or Bengals) need intense mental stimulation to stay content, especially compared to the average housecat. However, especially for cats (who are often labeled as short- or long-haired domestic cats due to their heavy mixed-breed ancestry), it’s important to adjust to their needs.

Age is also an important factor to consider. If you’re looking for a low-energy addition to your family, consider older pets rather than puppies or kittens. 

2. Space and Living Environment 

How much space dogs need is often tied to their energy levels: high-energy breeds require more space and a standard residential fenced-in yard to run around in, while smaller, lower-energy breeds can be content with apartment living and occasional walks. Additionally, getting the right breed for your area’s climate is also crucial. While it’s not ideal to adopt heavy-coated breeds if you live in a hot, dry climate, make sure to accommodate them regardless by ensuring proper hydration and constant supervision during the hot months.

Cats benefit from lots of vertical climbing space, windows, sufficient litter box space, and areas to scratch their claws. Failing to provide these can result in “behavioral problems” like scratching furniture or spraying. 

3. Grooming and Fur Care

Often overlooked, it’s important to consider how different breeds have different coats and fur care requirements. Longer-furred cats and dogs require very frequent brushing or professional grooming to avoid matting, a condition that can happen to any cat or dog without proper fur care. Also, different breeds shed different amounts (and in different ways). Be prepared for the time and effort needed to properly care for your pets’ coats, as well as the level of clean-up you should expect. 

4. Health and Special Conditions

It’s necessary to look up common breed-specific health and behavioral issues for the breeds you’re considering adopting. This is especially key if you have other pets or children, as some breeds are better suited as family dogs compared to others, or if you plan to adopt a puppy that will require training. It’s also important to understand the ethics (or lack thereof) of trendy designer breeds. These breeds, such as French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, and Pugs, are often overbred for aesthetics at the expense of their comfort and health. While they might be cute, these pets require constant veterinary care due to the health issues from their breeding. Animals are not just fashion or status statements, either—they’re living beings that will depend fully on you. Regardless, knowing the common health issues for a breed will let you keep an eye on their health, and know what to expect and prepare for financially.

Before you adopt, consider all of these areas and see how compatible your lifestyle is with the pet breed you’re choosing. Ask yourself whether you have enough time and commitment to train, walk, play, and be an overall attentive pet parent. For instance, if you’re away at work for eight hours every weekday, then getting a high-energy husky puppy isn’t the best idea. Instead, consider an independent adult cat or a senior dog who is already housebroken, with plans for regular walks. If you’re still having trouble, the American Kennel Club has a useful dog breed-matcher quiz to help connect you to the best breeds for your situation.

Pets are family, and they can require just as much responsibility and commitment. No one wants to abuse our furry friends, so avoid doing so by doing your research and giving your pets the safe, loving homes they deserve!