Like Us
Follow @dogster
Google +1 Subscribe to our YouTube Channel Contact Us
Answers Home » Adoption & Rescue
Guest

I Want a Dog in College?

I really want to get a dog in college, for companionship and because I love dogs. I realize that it's a HUGE commitment, but I'm honestly willing to give up a social life for a loyal friend. I want a chihuahua, and I'm going to adopt. I will either live in an apartment or in pet friendly dorms. I'm willing to sacrifice quality of living space if it is a place where pets are allowed. I plan to stay in a lot, and I would anyways. I realize that dogs are very expensive, but I'm saving up money and if necessary, my parents could help out. No matter what, the dog would be cared for.

I just want an opinion about whether or not this is a good idea. I just can't imaging living without a furry friend, and dogs are more suited to my lifestyle than cats.

Also, do you think that a chihuahua would be a good breed for this situation? I also want a Jack Russell Terrier, but I think that dog would be a better addition to the family AFTER college.


Asked by Member 1123637 on Aug 1st 2012 Tagged dog, college, help in Adoption & Rescue
 Report this question Get this question's RSS feed Send this question to a friend


Status

  • Cast your vote for which answer you think is best!

Answers

Zack

I don't think it's a bad idea, but it sounds like you are not in college yet? If not, I suggest waiting until after you have completed at least one semester of college.

When you go to college, there will be a lot of new opportunities and activities for you to try, new people to meet, etc. You will also have classes that may be more difficult than high school. For many college students, their life changes during that first semester, and you may find that you are too busy for a dog. Also, it can be difficult for first-year students to find campus-approved housing that allows pets larger than fish.

Some students can handle it and some can't. It would not have worked for me, I wanted to study abroad, participate in student groups, hang out with my (human) friends, etc. Between that and studying, I did not have time for a dog.

I would try college for a semester without a dog first, to be sure you still have the time and want to do it, then get a dog if you still feel ready for it.


Zack answered on 8/2/12. Helpful? Yes/Helpful: No 0 Report this answer


Pookie *RIP*

I am currently in college and LOVE coming home to my pets. However, I would suggest waiting until you are done 1 semester, college seems really easy then you get in it and not only is it harder than expected but there are ALOT of new things to do. I would suggest not getting a puppy unless your parents are willing to help out alot as class schedules can be crazy (I currently am at college from 8 am - 6 pm Monday and Wednesday, 8 am - 1 pm on Friday, and have no classes on Tues and Thurs). A puppy needs a stable schedule and consistent potty times and with college getting the same schedule every semester is almost impossible. If I were you I would get a dog over 1 year old as Chis live a long time and getting one that is over a year old will make it easier on you and the dog.


Pookie *RIP* answered on 8/2/12. Helpful? Yes/Helpful: No 0 Report this answer


More Questions in This Category