If you’re like most dog-less dog lovers, you’ve been dreaming of puppy ownership for years. Puppies are wonderful creatures, and raising one creates an unbreakable bond – but it’s also a tremendous responsibility. Here are five ways to know you’re definitely ready to get a puppy.

1. You can afford it. Finances aren’t the first thing that comes to mind when considering a pup, but a study [http://www.akc.org/content/dog-care/articles/cost-to-raise-dog/] done by the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine found the average first-year cost of raising a dog to be $3,085 – so make sure you’re ready for Fido to take a bite out of your paycheck.
2. You’ve got time. A new puppy can’t be left alone for long. They need to go potty every two hours, eat three or four times a day for the first five months, and lap up lots of loving attention from humans and fellow pets alike.
3. You’ve got patience. Certain breeds mature slower than others, and when your 80 pound Labrador Retriever is still giving you puppy eyes with a chewed-up shoe in his mouth you might fear that he’ll never grow up. He will, of course – but it takes time, and puppies need an owner who’s prepared to offer positive (and negative) reinforcement for as long as it takes.
4. You’re in it for the long haul. Most dogs live an average of 10-15 years. Have you factored this into your future? A dog might mean you can’t take that spontaneous trip or rent that great apartment.
5. Your entire household is down. Whether that means the kids or the roommates, make sure everyone under your roof is on board with a furry addition before you commit to one.

If you know you can give a dog the loving home it deserves but aren’t sure you’re ready for a puppy, don’t forget that older pets are an option, too – senior adoption is a wonderful way to let puppy love into your life minus the puppy drama.