Parents often say no to getting a dog for several valid reasons. Taking care of a pet is a long-term responsibility, and their concerns usually revolve around time, money, effort, and lifestyle changes.

Here are the most common reasons parents may hesitate…

Responsibility and Time Commitment

• Feeding, walking, grooming, and vet visits require consistent time and effort.
• Dogs need daily exercise and attention, which can be difficult to manage with already busy family schedules.
• Parents might worry that the child’s interest will fade, leaving them with most of the responsibilities.

Tip: Show them you’re committed by volunteering to care for a friend’s dog or taking on extra chores at home.

Financial Costs

• Owning a dog involves significant expenses, such as
  • Adoption or purchase fees
  • Veterinary care (vaccinations, emergencies)
  • Food, toys, grooming, and training
  • Pet insurance

Parents might be concerned that these costs will strain the household budget.

Allergies or Health Issues

• Some family members may have allergies to pet dander.
• Dogs can also carry germs or parasites, which might concern parents, especially with young children at home.

Damage to the Home and Property

• Dogs, especially puppies, can be destructive by chewing furniture, shoes, or digging up the yard.
• Potty training can take time, and accidents on carpets or furniture are common.

Travel and Lifestyle Limitations

• Dogs need daily care, even on vacations or weekends away, which means arranging for pet-sitters or kennels.
• Parents may feel that a dog limits their freedom to travel or engage in spontaneous activities.

Noise and Behavioral Concerns

• Barking, whining, or howling can be disruptive, especially in apartments or homes with young children.
• Dogs that misbehave or don’t get proper training can cause stress, especially if they jump on people or pull on the leash.

Fear of Long-Term Commitment

• Dogs live for 10–15 years (or longer), and parents may worry about being tied to that responsibility.
• They might question whether the family is ready for such a long-term commitment.

Other Pets in the Home

• If the family already has pets, parents might worry about how they’ll adjust to a new dog.
• Some animals may not get along, leading to stress and conflict in the household.

Concerns About Who Will Care for the Dog

• Many parents feel the child’s enthusiasm will fade over time, leaving the adults responsible for the dog’s care.
• Parents want to ensure that everyone in the family understands the work involved.

Safety Concerns

• Parents might worry that a dog could accidentally hurt young children by jumping or nipping, especially with large or energetic breeds.
• If the child is too young to understand how to behave around a dog, there’s a risk of injury to both.

Space Constraints

• In small homes or apartments, parents might feel there isn’t enough space for a dog to live comfortably.
• Larger or active breeds, in particular, need room to move and play.

Change in Routine

• Bringing a dog into the home means adjusting morning routines (feeding and walking) and evening schedules.
• Parents might feel that adding a pet to the household would disrupt their already structured routine.

How to Convince Your Parents

If you really want a dog, here are some ways to address their concerns:

• Show responsibility – Take on more chores and prove you can stick to a schedule.
• Research breeds – Find a breed that fits your family’s lifestyle and space.
• Offer to share costs – Save up your own money for the dog’s initial expenses.
• Volunteer – Spend time at an animal shelter to gain experience and show commitment.
• Create a care plan – Outline who will walk, feed, and train the dog—and stick to it!

By understanding their concerns and showing responsibility, you’ll have a better chance of convincing them that you’re ready for the responsibility of a dog.