Want to Surprise Your Kids With a Puppy for Christmas? Experts Say to Think Again

With Christmas right around the corner, there’s no doubt that your kids have already given you their wishlist. And if you have a child who is obsessed with dogs, we’re guessing that puppy might have made it to the top of said list. 

While getting a family dog is wonderful, it’s not a decision that should be taken lightly. Afterall, this is a 10-year-plus responsibility. Not only do dogs need plenty of love and attention, but they’re also quite expensive, as they need food, toys, grooming, and trips to the vet, which will only increase during their later years.  

In a December 2024 interview with FOX5 Las Vegas, Expert K9 trainer Antonio Diaz shared why he thinks gifting a puppy is “a terrible idea.” He explained that a new pup can be overwhelming and add additional costs to the household. 

There also seems to be some evidence that dogs who were Christmas gifts end up at rescues.

Judy Sims, the Executive Director at Humane Society of Concord, told WBTV in January 2020 that there are more dogs brought to the shelter after the month of December. 

“[People say], ‘It’s not what we bargained for, we adopted before we thought about it, our kids weren’t ready for it,’” said Sims. 

Sims then urged those who are interested in getting a dog for Christmas to make sure a canine companion would work with the family’s set schedule. 

“Do some forward thinking, do some planning, think about what’s going to happen when soccer season starts, when baseball season starts, when you go back to work. Think about those things,” said Sims. 

So if you aren't ready for all that goes into having a dog, please reconsider gifting one for Christmas!