If you have young kids, don’t be swayed by their passionate insistence that they’ll take care of their new BFF. Sure, you can encourage their participation in feeding, grooming and walking, but you can’t really rely on it. And if your kids are teenagers, beware of hormones! Walking the dog on a Friday night can suddenly lose its appeal when all your friends are watching Gossip Girl. Dogs should also not be left alone for long periods of time. They easily become restless and unhappy when they feel neglected - which means you may well be feeling restless and unhappy when you come home to a destroyed house. If you work full-time, and there’s no other family member to be with the dog, consider a dog walker, doggie day care, or a second pet…