Service dogs change lives—but they also change your entire daily routine. Sure, they offer freedom and support, but bringing one into your world comes with way more than just love and cuddles. We’re talking finances, emotional shifts, legal considerations, and lifestyle changes that most people don’t expect. It takes real planning, tons of patience, and an honest understanding of what you’re truly signing up for. So let’s walk through ten reasons why getting a service dog is a big decision that deserves serious, thoughtful preparation and care.

1. The Training Isn’t Instant

Getting a service dog isn’t like picking up a gadget that’s ready to go. These dogs go through months—sometimes years—of intense training before they’re even considered for pairing. And once you’re matched? There’s still an adjustment period while you both learn to work as a team. Plus, you’ll need to keep practicing commands and reinforcing skills regularly. Training doesn’t stop when you bring them home—it evolves over time. So, if you’re thinking this will be quick and easy, it’s time to rethink things.

2. They’re Not Robots

Also, even the best-trained service dogs aren’t perfect. They’re not little machines—they’re living, breathing creatures with moods, quirks, and off days. Like us, they can feel tired, distracted, or just “not in the zone.” Environmental stress, your own mood, or even a change in routine can throw them off. They’re amazing, but not infallible. So, if you’re expecting flawless performance all the time, you’re probably going to be frustrated. Remember, you’re building a relationship—not programming a device.

3. Costs Add Up Quickly

Then there’s the money. Service dogs are expensive—like, really expensive. You could be looking at anywhere from $15,000 to $50,000 for a trained dog. And even if you get one through a nonprofit, there are still tons of ongoing costs: food, vet visits, gear, insurance, and travel for follow-up training. Not to mention, they need rest too—so boarding or pet-sitting becomes part of the deal. Over time, it can start to rival other medical expenses. If your budget is already tight, this might be a tough road.

4. Emotional Expectations Can Clash

Another thing—people often expect a service dog to be a constant emotional comfort, but that’s not really their job. They’re trained for specific tasks, not to be snuggle machines or emotional therapists. Sure, bonds form and there’s affection, but not every service dog is touchy-feely. Some are all business and prefer to focus. So, if you’re hoping for nonstop cuddles or emotional healing, a therapy dog or emotional support animal might be a better fit. It’s important to be super honest with yourself about what you truly need and want.

5. You’ll Lose a Bit of Privacy

And let’s talk about attention—because having a service dog means people notice you. A lot. Whether you’re shopping, riding the bus, or just grabbing coffee, someone will probably stare, ask questions, or even try to pet your dog without permission. And yeah, it can get exhausting, especially if you already deal with social anxiety. Some folks might even question your need for the dog or ask for super personal stuff. If you value flying under the radar, this part might be harder than you’d expect.

6. Not Every Place Is Welcoming

Let’s be honest—even though service dogs are legally protected under the ADA, not every place gets it. Some businesses still try to deny entry, question you, or just make things awkward. Sure, you’ve got rights, but standing your ground can be exhausting and sometimes uncomfortable. Plus, if you’re thinking about international travel, expect even more red tape. Because of all this, service dog handlers end up constantly advocating for themselves. So if you’re not big on confrontation, this part might seriously wear you down.

7. Travel Gets More Complicated

Then there’s travel. What used to be a quick getaway now becomes a well-planned operation. Whether it’s a weekend road trip or a long flight, you’ll be handling paperwork, vaccination records, emergency plans, and hotel calls. Not to mention, your dog needs to be calm in unpredictable places like airports or noisy rest stops. And yes—even finding a pet-friendly restaurant takes effort. While totally doable, it’s not carefree travel anymore. So if spontaneity is your thing, be ready to rethink how you roll.

8. Your Routine Will Change Drastically

Also, owning a service dog isn’t just a lifestyle—it’s a routine you have to stick with, daily. We’re talking grooming, exercise, feeding, gear checks—the whole works. Skipping stuff can throw off their rhythm and mess with their performance. Plus, you can’t just sleep in or blow off dinner plans without affecting them. Unlike having a regular pet, this is structured living, and it doesn’t leave much room for “I’ll do it later.” So if flexibility is super important to you, think carefully before committing.

9. Public Misconceptions Are Common

And here’s the thing—people in public can be… a lot. If your disability isn’t visible, some strangers will question you, make rude comments, or pet your dog without asking first. It happens more than you’d expect, even in “dog-friendly” places and situations. Even though the law’s on your side, dealing with ignorance can be emotionally draining and frustrating. While you can educate others, you’ll need a thick skin and patience. So if public reactions stress you out, this part of the lifestyle might hit harder than expected.

10. It’s a Long-Term Bond

Lastly, this isn’t just about having help—it’s about forming a deep, long-term bond. A service dog becomes your teammate, your friend, and your shadow for years. But that also means being there when they’re sick, when they age, and when it’s time to retire. Sometimes, dogs retire earlier than expected, which means starting over emotionally and logistically. So while it’s an incredibly rewarding relationship, it’s also heavy at times. That’s why your decision should come from love and long-term commitment—not just convenience.

Love Pets as Much as We Do?

Scroll up and click the ‘Follow’ button to stay updated with the latest heart-warming, hilarious, and helpful pet posts from Pawdown, delivered straight to your Microsoft Start feed and MSN homepage!