MANILA, Philippines - Dog ownership is a serious commitment that requires a significant investment of time, patience, and money. So before you get a dog, make sure that you're in it for the long haul.

For one, getting a dog is quite expensive, even if it's only given to you. Basic dog expenses can cost tens of thousands of pesos per year -- that's excluding all the little extras you tend to spend on your beloved pooch (such as designer beds and filet mignon doggie treats).

Second, a dog requires a lot of attention. Make sure that you are willing to make adjustments to your lifestyle to accommodate your new dog -- you should have the time to feed your dog, give him a walk, and remove his ticks, among many others.

So, if you tend to work long hours or travel frequently, then maybe a pup is not the thing for you.

Third, you have to do some "pet-proofing" if you are to welcome a dog to your home. Unlike kids that can be easily told what to play with and what to stay away from, dogs are a bit craftier when it comes to off-limits areas.

With all these taken into account, do you think you still want a dog? If you answered yes, read on.

Choosing the right dog for you

There are several factors to consider in choosing a dog. Here are some tips to help you out in your decision:

Size. Small dogs tend to be more sensitive and vulnerable, while very large ones need more space to run around. And the larger the dog, the more you need to spend for food, shampoo, and medical supplies.

Activity level. Some dogs have more energy than others, so make sure that you can commit to being a jogging partner to your pooch. If you can't, at least make it a point to have someone give your dog some exercise -- at at least two 10-minute walks a day.

Physical maintenance. Dogs need basic grooming, but this depends on the size of his or her hair coat. The longer your dog's hair is, the more you need to do some cleaning up. If you have the money, get someone to do this for you at least every month.

Age. An older dog requires less attention while a puppy needs a lot of time for training and housekeeping. But despite the age, all of them make good companions.

Still can't decide? Try out this doggie quiz that highlights the top 10 breeds that fit your specific criteria.
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References:
About.com
Dogs in depth
Dog Biz
Doggie dealer