Borrowing a Dog: What You Need to Know Beforehand

Published on January 23, 2026 • 5 min read

Not just fun and games

Borrowing a dog can be a dream come true for many who love animals but can’t have their own. Still, it comes with responsibility. Dogs are living beings with daily needs and emotions.

Questions to ask yourself before borrowing a dog

  1. Am I ready to walk the dog daily, regardless of the weather?

  2. Do I have time to play and bond with the dog?

  3. Can I handle basic care, like feeding and cleaning?

  4. Do I know how to respond if the dog gets sick or scared?

Practical preparation

Before borrowing a dog, it’s important to meet them with their owner. Discuss routines, food preferences, and behavioural traits. Agree on how to act in case of an emergency.

The emotional reward

Borrowing a dog offers a sense of companionship, joy, and movement. At the same time, it’s an opportunity to experience what pet ownership really entails—helping people decide whether they are ready for a permanent commitment.