A leading pet expert has issued a stark warning that certain types of people should never own a dog, regardless of how much they might adore the idea of canine companionship. The guidance comes from Kari, a professional with extensive background working in dog kennels and daycares, who stresses that dogs require far more than just good intentions—they need structure, dedicated time, and long-term commitment.
The Critical Need for Responsible Ownership
When prospective owners fail to meet a dog's fundamental requirements, the consequences often manifest as severe behavioural issues or outright neglect. Kari explains, "Since anyone can get a dog, many people who should not own dogs end up acquiring them through various means. Most of these types buy them without a clue about what a dog truly needs." This lack of understanding can lead to significant welfare problems for the animal.
1. Smokers Pose a Severe Health Risk
The expert specifically highlights pet owners who smoke, particularly indoors or in close proximity to their dogs. Secondhand smoke does not simply dissipate; it lingers in the air and adheres to furnishings, exposing dogs to unavoidable toxins. Kari, a former smoker herself, states, "A dog is made up of some of the same stuff we are. They have lungs. I knew enough to keep it to myself and spare my dogs the toxins."
Research from the Royal Veterinary College confirms that dogs in smoking households show substantially elevated cotinine levels in their bloodstream, proving nicotine absorption from passive smoke. This significantly heightens their susceptibility to nasal, sinus, and lung cancers. The danger escalates with smoking frequency, with long-snouted breeds more vulnerable to nasal malignancies, while shorter-muzzled breeds face over double the likelihood of lung cancer as harmful substances reach their respiratory system directly.
2. Frequent Travellers Create Instability
While occasional trips are manageable, frequent globetrotters should seriously reconsider dog ownership. Kari explains, "Dogs are not apt to stay home alone. They must be babysat by someone trusted or go to a kennel." If a kennel is the only option, it can be a terrifying and lonely experience for the dog, causing significant stress in loud, chaotic environments.
Elaborating on the challenges, Kari adds, "Kennel staff usually cannot devote special attention to a single dog, which exacerbates stress for dogs needing attention. Often, dogs urinate and defecate in their kennels because their schedule is disrupted, forcing them to live in that kennel until it is cleaned."
3. Lazy Individuals Neglect Essential Needs
Dogs require daily exercise, mental stimulation, and consistent training. Owners who neglect walks, disregard playtime, or overlook routines risk fostering frustrated, bored, or destructive pets. Kari states, "Some dogs can get exercise from playing with another dog or running in a backyard. However, if a household has no other pets, no backyard, and the owner does not enjoy playing or walking their dog, then they should not own a dog."
According to Pet MD, six signs indicate a dog is not getting enough exercise: weight gain, destroying the house, withdrawn behaviour, hyperactivity, excessive barking or whining, and stiffness.
4. Careless Feeders Compromise Health
Another unsuitable owner type is those who feed their dogs anything without consideration or structure. Dogs need a balanced diet to stay healthy, and providing scraps or inconsistent meals can lead to obesity, digestive problems, and long-term health issues. Kari comments, "Some people think dogs can eat anything and thrive on it. Cheap dog food often contains ingredients dogs do not need, like grain, corn, and additives. These fillers are not nutritious and often makeup the bulk of cheap food."
"Dogs are carnivores, needing a diet full of meat. However, not all dogs are the same; their diet needs vary depending on age, health, and activity level," she adds.
5. Thoughtless Owners Cause Mental Anguish
The expert suggests that regardless of whether an owner has a large yard, small garden, or just a balcony, dogs should never be left outside all day. Anyone believing this is acceptable is not suited to ownership. Kari says, "Dogs are pack animals with a strong attachment to their human family. They need attention and love. Being isolated outside all day can cause significant mental pain. Additionally, outside dogs risk injury from animals, humans, and the weather."
This comprehensive analysis underscores that dog ownership is a serious commitment requiring specific lifestyle adaptations. Prospective owners must honestly assess whether they can provide the necessary care, environment, and dedication to ensure a dog's wellbeing throughout its life.
