How to Convince Your Parents to Let You Get a Small Dog

Last Updated: December 10, 2022 References Approved

Have you always wanted a dog, but your parents won't allow it? That can be really frustrating. Dogs are great companions and great entertainment. As they say, "A dog is a man's best friend!" A dog can be a treasured and loved member of your family. The key is to convince your parents to let you have a small dog. By preparing an effective argument and demonstrating your responsibility, you will be several steps closer to adopting your new friend.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Creating a Persuasive Presentation

1
Research dog breeds. In order to convince your parents to let you have a dog, you need to be persuasive. You will be in a better position to convince them if you are well informed. Begin to research your presentation by looking into different dog breeds.^{[1]
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- When you talk to your parents, you will want to be as specific as possible. You will sound more convincing if you are able to make definitive statements such as, "Mom, Dad, the Jack Russell Terrier is the right dog for us." Or, "The Shih Poo is a great dog for us."
- Start by looking at different dog breeds online. You can even take a quiz about what type of dog is right for you.^{[2]
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  American Kennel Club
  The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show.
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- Use some websites such as the American Kennel Club site to figure out what type of dog you should ask for. For example, if your sister might be allergic, look into a Yorkshire Terrier.
- If your mom is worried that a dog will be messy, you can look for a dog that doesn't shed heavily. Research dachshunds, which are a small, neat dog.
- Go to your local or school library. Ask the reference librarian to help you find some books that offer information about different breeds of small dogs.
2
Talk to a local shelter. Adopting a dog is a great way to add a pet to your family. With adoption, you can rescue an animal who needs a home. You can also save money, as you won't have to pay an expensive breeder.^{[3]
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- Once you have an idea about some of the breeds you are interested in, contact your local animal shelter. The staff and volunteers there will be able to provide you with some helpful information.
- State that you are looking for a small dog and offer any other specific requirements that you have. For example, tell the staff whether you are looking for a puppy or an older dog.
- Ask if they regularly have a wide selection of dogs that might fit your needs. For example, you can say, "Will it be fairly easy to adopt a small dog such as a dachshund or terrier?"
- Collect other information. Find out what information you and your parents will need to provide in order to adopt a dog. You can also ask how long the process takes.
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3
Create a budget. The best way to convince your parents to let you have a dog is to prepare a thoroughly researched presentation. You will definitely want to include the financial aspects of dog ownership in your request. Do some research about how much it costs to adopt and raise a dog.
- Talk to the experts. You can ask the staff at the shelter how much the adoption fees are and if you will need to pay for vaccinations.
- Contact a local vet. You can phone the office and ask for general pricing information. Ask how much it will cost to spay or neuter a dog, and how much regular office check-ups cost.
- Visit a local pet store. You can price food, toys, and grooming products.
- Combine all of your information to figure out the monthly cost of dog ownership. If you plan to pay for part of the dog's care, make that part of your presentation, too.
4
Make a schedule. Your parents will want to make sure that you understand how much time it takes to care for a dog. For the next part of your presentation preparation, figure out how you will fit dog care into your family's routine. This will help show your parents that you have put a lot of thought into caring for the dog.
- Think about how much time it will take to exercise your dog each day. Do you have a yard where he can play independently? Or will you need to make sure to walk him?
- If you are asking for a puppy, think about how long it will take to train the dog. Are you planning to spend some time each day helping to house train the dog?
- Make a calendar that shows the breakdown of how much time you will spend caring for the dog. If you are asking other family members to help, make sure to make that clear.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Communicating Effectively

1
Choose the right time. Once you have collected all of your information, it is time to make a presentation to your parents. It is important to choose a time that works for everyone. You want to make sure that you have enough time to clearly make your point.^{[4]
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- Ask your parents to schedule some time to hear your presentation. Try saying, "Mom, Dad, do you have some free time Wednesday after dinner? Could I talk to you for about 30 minutes?"
- Avoid trying to have an important discussion when your parents are busy. Don't try to bring up the subject when they are heading out the door or trying to make dinner.
- Choose a time when there will be few interruptions. For example, don't ask your parents to listen to you right before it is time for your mom's friends to come over for book club.
2
Be prepared. Make sure that your presentation is well-organized. By now, you will have a lot of information about dog breeds, adoption, costs, and time. Make note cards for each topic.
- Notes will help you remember all of the facts that you have collected. Don't be afraid to refer to them while you are talking.
- Make some visual aids. If you are good with computers, you can make a Power Point presentation.
- Include pictures of the type of dog you would like to get. You can also make a chart that describes the breakdown of costs.
- If you don't know how to make a Power Point, that's ok. You can use poster board to help show your information. Use brightly colored markers to highlight some of the most important facts.
3
Speak clearly. Make sure that your parents can understand all of the good points that you are making. Talk in a clear, confident voice. Don't talk too fast. You want to make sure your parents have time to process what you are saying.^{[5]
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- Practice your presentation. Take some time to run through your information the day before you speak to your parents. Rehearse it to make sure it's dog-worthy.
- Rehearsing will help you feel and sound more confident. Try asking a friend or other family member to listen. They might be able to offer you some helpful advice.
- Don't worry if you get nervous. Just pause for a moment, take a deep breath, smile, and keep going.
4
Listen carefully. Part of making an effective presentation is listening to your audience. It is possible that your parents might have some questions for you. If so, listen to what they say and give a thoughtful response.^{[6]
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- For example, your parents might say, "How are you going to fit this in around soccer practice?" You can say, "That's a great question. I plan to start getting up earlier in the morning to spend quality time with the new dog."
- When it is your parents turn to talk, show them that you are listening. Make eye contact and nod your head when they make an important point.
- Let your parents know that you are happy to answer any questions that they have. This shows that you are willing to have a mature conversation.
5
Be willing to compromise. If you make a very persuasive argument, it is possible that your parents might give you an immediate and enthusiastic "Yes!" However, you should be prepared for other reactions. Your parents might need some time to think it over.^{[7]
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- Demonstrate that you are patient. Say, "I know this is a big decision, so I understand if you need to take some time to discuss it with each other."
- Your parents might have other requirements. For example, they might say, "You will have to let your sister help you choose the dog." Be prepared to compromise on these sorts of qualifications.
- You can suggest your own compromises, too. For example, you could say, "If you let me get a dog, I will be happy to have my allowance reduced. I understand dogs are expensive."

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Demonstrating Your Capabilities

1
Do your chores. Having a dog is a lot of responsibility. If you want to convince your parents to let you get one, you should take some steps to show that you are ready for the challenge. Make sure to do everything they ask of you.^{[8]
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- Completing your chores when asked is a great way to show that you are capable of handling a dog. Make sure you set aside time each day to take care of your housework.
- Do things without being asked. For example, if you are in charge of taking out the trash, go ahead and do that anytime you notice that it is full.
- Volunteer for extra responsibility. You can say, "Mom, I want to show you I am responsible. How about you let me be in charge of packing my own lunch this week?"
2
Succeed in school. Try your hardest to be a good student. Success at school shows your parents that you can handle challenges. Make sure to spend plenty of time on your homework.^{[9]
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- Make a study schedule for yourself. This will show your parents you are capable of sticking to a routine.
- Wake up on time. Don't make your parents come in to your room several times to get you out of bed.
- Getting up early will be important once you have a dog. Show that you are ready to handle early morning walks.
3
Be kind to others. Animals deserve a loving owner. Show your parents you are capable of handling that responsibility. Be kind to others to show them that you are the type of person who will be kind to your dog.^{[10]
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American Psychological Association
Leading scientific and professional organization of licensed psychologists
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- Show consideration for your family members. If you see your dad out mowing the yard on a hot day, bring him a glass of iced tea.
- If you have siblings, be nice to them. If you fight less with your brother, it shows that you are a kind, responsible person.
- Be a good friend. Showing kindness to your friends will help your parents see what a great kid you are. Offer to let your buddy ride your new bike.
4
Act maturely. You want to show your parents that you are growing up. Let them know that you are mature enough to handle having a dog. One way you can do this is by communicating with them.^{[11]
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- Don't throw fits. If you don't get your way, don't stomp off. Instead say, "Ok, I accept your decision."
- Use your words. If you are upset by something, talk to your parents. You can say, "I'm upset that I can't spend the night at Sarah's this weekend. Is there something I can do to earn the privilege?"
- Work on creating a relationship based on trust. This will help your parents see that you deserve to adopt a dog.

Expert Q&A
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Question

How do you convince your parents to get you a small pet?

Adam Dorsay, PsyD
Licensed Psychologist & TEDx Speaker
Dr. Adam Dorsay is a licensed psychologist in private practice in San Jose, CA, and the co-creator of Project Reciprocity, an international program at Facebook's Headquarters, and a consultant with Digital Ocean’s Safety Team. He specializes in assisting high-achieving adults with relationship issues, stress reduction, anxiety, and attaining more happiness in their lives. In 2016 he gave a well-watched TEDx talk about men and emotions. Dr. Dorsay has a M.A. in Counseling from Santa Clara University and received his doctorate in Clinical Psychology in 2008.

Adam Dorsay, PsyD

Licensed Psychologist & TEDx Speaker

Expert Answer

Support wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer.

Highlight the fact that a dog can bring the family closer. These days, it's common for families to be scattered throughout the week. Having an animal can bring everyone together, so a pet is often a good solution for how dispersed we are. Also, spending time with pets releases happy chemicals like oxytocin and serotonin, which helps you bond with the animal and each other.
Question

How do you get your parents to say yes?

Adam Dorsay, PsyD
Licensed Psychologist & TEDx Speaker
Dr. Adam Dorsay is a licensed psychologist in private practice in San Jose, CA, and the co-creator of Project Reciprocity, an international program at Facebook's Headquarters, and a consultant with Digital Ocean’s Safety Team. He specializes in assisting high-achieving adults with relationship issues, stress reduction, anxiety, and attaining more happiness in their lives. In 2016 he gave a well-watched TEDx talk about men and emotions. Dr. Dorsay has a M.A. in Counseling from Santa Clara University and received his doctorate in Clinical Psychology in 2008.

Adam Dorsay, PsyD

Licensed Psychologist & TEDx Speaker

Expert Answer

Support wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer.

It's important to demonstrate that you are capable of carrying out your responsibilities in the long term. This will help reduce your parents' likely concern that the dog will become their responsibility.