You Should Get a Dog

Your love of the outdoors, routine and company points to a dog. Expect daily walks, training and a big time commitment, plus a friend who is always glad you came home.

Your answers say you like being active, you're home enough to share your days and you want a companion who is openly, joyfully happy to see you. That is pretty much the job description of a dog. Few pets fit into an outdoorsy, social life as naturally, and few give back as much enthusiasm.

What life with a dog really looks like

Dogs need time every single day. Most need at least a couple of walks, regular play and training, and they don't do well being left alone for very long stretches. Puppies need even more: house training, chewing management and lots of short training sessions. Many dogs live somewhere around ten to fifteen years, depending on size and breed, so you're signing up for a big chunk of your life.

Costs add up too. Beyond food, plan for vet checkups, vaccines, flea and tick prevention, grooming for some coats, a sturdy leash and crate, and a pet sitter or boarding when you travel. It helps to set aside an emergency fund or look into pet insurance before you bring a dog home.

Space matters less than energy. A big dog in a small apartment can be happy if it gets enough exercise, while a high-energy breed in a house with a yard can still be bored. Match the dog's energy level to yours, not just its size to your home.

Where to start

Consider adoption first. Shelters and breed rescues have dogs of every age and size, and adult dogs often arrive with their personalities already clear, which makes it easier to find a good match. Ask the staff about energy level, how the dog does alone and whether it gets along with kids or other pets. If you're new to dogs, our guide to dog breeds for first-time owners is a helpful place to begin.

This quiz is a fun starting point, not a final answer. Before committing, check your lease, think about who will care for the dog when you travel and spend some time with dogs you know. If it all still sounds good, you may have a wonderful new adventure buddy waiting at your local shelter.

Your strengths

• Loyal company
• Gets you outdoors
• Very trainable
• Social

Watch out for

• Daily walks in any weather
• Vet and boarding costs
• Hard to leave alone long

If someone you love got this result

If someone you love is ready for a dog, offer to dog-sit or join their walks. Practical help in the first few months means more than any toy.

Best matches

• You Should Get a Cat — An independent, affectionate roommate for a busy home life
• You Should Get a Rabbit — A gentle, curious companion for a calm and patient home

Go deeper: The Best Dog Breeds for First-Time Owners (and the Ones to Wait On)