How to choose the right pet for your lifestyle

So, what should you consider when finding a pet that truly fits your lifestyle?

Dr Deepraj Prajapati, senior veterinarian at RD Pet Hospital Ambedkar Nagar, tells indianexpress.com, “Each pet has unique needs, and selecting one that aligns with your routine ensures their well-being and prevents potential abandonment.”

He adds, “For individuals with a hectic work schedule, a high-maintenance pet like a Labrador or German Shepherd, which requires regular exercise and companionship, may not be the best choice. Instead, independent breeds like cats or low-maintenance pets like fish or turtles could be better options. Similarly, for families with small children, a pet with a gentle temperament — such as a Beagle or a Golden Retriever — would be ideal. In contrast, fragile pets like hamsters or exotic birds may not be suitable.”

Living space is another critical factor, Dr Prajapati states. “In Indian metro cities where many live in apartments, smaller breeds like Pugs, Shih Tzus, or indoor cats are better suited than large dogs that require open areas to run. For independent houses with a yard, active breeds like Indies (Indian Pariah dogs), Labradors, or Retrievers may be a better fit.”

Financial commitment is a big factor when owning a pet. Dr Prajapati stresses that pets require ongoing expenses for food, grooming, veterinary care, and vaccinations. “High-maintenance pets, such as Persian cats or exotic dog breeds, may need special diets and frequent vet visits, adding to long-term costs.”

How can first-time pet owners determine if they’re ready for the responsibility of a pet, and what are some common mistakes to avoid?

Before bringing a pet home, first-time pet owners should evaluate their time, patience, and long-term commitment. Owning a pet is a responsibility beyond providing food and shelter — it requires emotional bonding, regular healthcare, and training.

Dr Prajapati states, “A key indicator of readiness is the ability to consistently dedicate time to pet care. Dogs, in particular, require training, socialisation, and exercise, whereas cats are more independent but still need attention. If an individual frequently travels or has an unpredictable work schedule, they must plan for pet sitters or daycare arrangements.”

One of the most common mistakes first-time pet owners make is choosing a pet based on trends or appearance rather than suitability, he mentions. Many people adopt high-maintenance breeds like Huskies or Saint Bernards without realising that these breeds struggle in India’s hot climate. 

He recommends, “Adopting an Indian Pariah dog or a native cat breed is often a better choice, as they are well-adapted to the local environment and require less intensive grooming and healthcare.”

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