Who wouldn't want such a cute dog? This is my dog, Bruno. I have had him since he was a puppy. Even though I knew that having a dog was a huge responsibility, I didn't really put much thought as to how much work and expenses went into having a dog.

Being a dog owner for more than nine years now, I can tell you that a lot goes into having a dog. I believe most people aren't aware of how much time, energy, and resources go into caring for a pet. Evidence of that are all the dogs who have been given up to shelters, other families, or even abandoned by a lot of people who thought they were ready for dog ownership.

People get pets for many different reasons. Some people want a companion. Families like to get a puppy for the kids or to give a dog a good home. Those are all great reasons, but only if you are well aware of the responsibility and are willing to care of them for their lifetime.

So, before you decide to get one, I want to share what it takes to care for a dog through my own experience with Bruno.