Unfortunately, it is still frighteningly common for people to buy puppies for Christmas only to attempt to re-home the creature come January.
Sadly, after Christmas is over, the novelty has worn off, as the dog is making a mess all over the carpet and behaving in an unruly manner.
Of course, it is not that the dog is bad, it just hasn't been trained correctly.
For this reason alone, it is advisable not to welcome a puppy into your home during the festive season when, let's face it, life is a little hectic anyway.
It is very common for parents to eventually relent and give in to their child's plea to get a puppy.
However, before welcoming any animal into your home it is important that you consider the prospect very seriously.
If you're thinking about getting a dog, here are just some of the things that you might like to mull over before making the commitment.

• Before considering getting a dog, it is important for people to consider the welfare of the animal.
  Usually, dogs dislike being left alone, some more than others, so if all members of your family are at work or school during the day, your dog could become very anxious.
  Typically, a dog's anxiety will manifest itself in actions that may appear like bad behavior, such as chewing furniture, making a mess on the carpet and howling.
  It is not in the dog's best interests to be left home alone all day.
  
• Next, you might like to consider the expense of owning a dog.
  There will need to be numerous visits to the vet, especially when the dog is a puppy, for vaccinations, spaying, neutering, worming etc.
  Obviously, having pet insurance will help to pay some of the bills, but you may find that some procedures are not covered by insurance.
  
• When thinking of getting a puppy, consider the space available in your house and the size that your dog will reach when fully grown.
  For example, a St Bernard puppy may seem ideal, but will it still be ideal when it is an adult?
• If you want to become a dog owner, bear in mind that you will need to commit some time to training your dog.
  As alluded to above, some people get a dog and expect it to train itself.
  If you are not able to spend time teaching your dog to go outside to go to the toilet, then you can expect to find puddles on your floor.
  Training a dog isn't difficult, but it does require a commitment from an owner.
  
• Come rain or shine your dog will need to get his, or her, exercise.
  It is easy to forget that owning a dog is not all glamour.
  Even in the wind and rain, your puppy will need to be taken for daily walks.
  Often, dog owners find that animals who do not get enough exercise can display signs of frustration and aggression.
  
• Additionally, it is a good idea to think about family vacations.
  As a family with a dog, you will need to make a decision between choosing a vacation that can be enjoyed by your pet, too, and placing him, or her, into boarding kennels for the duration of your vacation.
  Some owners find it difficult to leave their dog in the care of others and some dogs find it very distressing to be away from their family and home.
  

These are just a few of the things that you should consider before deciding to get a puppy.
Of course, many other factors will affect your home and family's compatibility with dog ownership.
Therefore, it is important to carefully consider all that dog ownership can include.
It is not advisable to make a rushed decision and provide your child with his, or her, Christmas wish if you'll later regret it.