Which is more work, a puppy or a baby? Tough call.
A puppy is hard work. Ms. Abramson’s friend Dana says “The first week I felt I had adopted a human infant…” I remember feeling that way with Caffeine — except I swear my son was easier. There’s housetraining, socialization, bite inhibition, adequate exercise and of course, those vet bills! And people give puppies as gifts?
A fully grown dog is a bit easier — but frankly if you’re doing it right, they’re a bit of work too. The exercise requirement doesn’t really go away. If you slacked off on your training, a few “cute” behaviors become an outright nuisance. And those vet bills certainly don’t go away!
The Puppy Diaries series started last July. I hope there are many more entries coming before the Times wraps it up.
The NY Times has done a great job the past few years of embracing “new media” and the Puppy Diaries have been no exception. Look at the great photos and videos they have uploaded to flickr:
What do you think? Leave a comment below!
I've raised two dogs and one child–both take a lot of work, and both bring incredible joy. I have a cat now, and he is so easy, so mushy, and a great companion.
I've never had a human child, but I grew up in a large family with a multitude of cousins, as well as three younger sisters – so I have a real appreciation for the amount of work it takes to raise a well-adjusted child. I've also raised 3 dogs from puppy-hood and adopted one stray that was about a year old when he came to live with us. IMHO, dogs are easier in the long run. The puppy/infant stage is intense no matter the species, but as a dog gets older, they will never throw a tantrum and tell you “they HATE you;” dogs don't ask you for the keys to your car, or expect you to pay for college or a wedding. They are always happy to see you and you can teach them to give kisses on command. For these reasons, I'm sticking with dogs!
I have had both children and dogs. With kids, it seemed like work. With dogs, it seems more like fun!
Ain't that the truth!
One child, 4 dogs, 4 birds, 1 cat. (Not at once.) One child was enough.
Very good points. I don;t know who was happier when my son got that scholarship.
(And he can get married at one of those Elvis chapels when the time comes.)
Yes, the child is the most challenging. The cat is easy and I am so thankful he and all of my other cats (there were 3 others hwo lived long lives) were here to keep me sane.
Yes, the child is the most challenging. The cat is easy and I am so thankful he and all of my other cats (there were 3 others hwo lived long lives) were here to keep me sane.