There are many different viewpoints on college students that adopt a pet in general. Some people thing college students aren't ready or aren't responsible enough to get a pet, and that the pet will end up being surrendered to an animal shelter or left somewhere for someone else to find. College students are typically broke and, therefore, it's hard to afford the keep up of the pet like food, vet bills, etc., especially if it's a dog (or cat, I guess. But really, who wants a cat?) However, there are many reasons why I think college students should most definitely have a dog.
1. Dogs make great companions.
There have been many nights where I have been sitting alone in my apartment literally craving to have a dog sit on my lap that I could pet and cuddle with. Dogs are loyal and love attention, and when you have a dog with you, you aren't alone. There's no way I would have those same lonely feelings if I could just have a dog.
2. They keep you active.
Obviously, dogs have to be walked outside to use the bathroom, and they also need to be able to run around and get energy out. Having a dog can help get you out of your apartment some, and it will keep you active because you have to walk it throughout the day and you can take it to a dog park and let it roam around.
3. They can help you maintain your stress and anxiety.
Stress and anxiety is high in college students, and dogs are great and sensing when something isn't quite right. You can even register your dog as an emotional support animal, and then you can legally take them with you wherever you go.
4. Built-in security system.
Most college apartments don't have security systems. In fact, my apartment complex doesn't even have a security guard. Dogs can bark and alert you if they hear any weird noise and, depending on the type of dog, can scare off anyone that tries to break in.
5. They help you make friends.
If you take your dog to a park, you will definitely meet people there and I guarantee someone will ask you if they can pet your dog. You can start conversations with them and it could turn into friendships. With the friendships you already have, they will want to hang out and come over to your place even more knowing there will be a dog there that they can pet. Therefore, dogs help you keep up your social life.
6. They give you an excuse to be antisocial.
While they may help to improve your social life, they also give you an excuse not to go out when you just want to have a night in to yourself. Simply saying that you can't go do something because you have to go home and take care of your dog can get you out of anything.
7. They teach you responsibility.
To your dog, you are their entire life. Without you, they have nothing. They won't be able to eat or drink unless you give them food and water and they won't be able to go outside unless you take them outside. You have to learn how to take care of them and you can't let them down. You are responsible for their lives, and it is great practice for things you have to be responsible for in the future (like babies).
8. They won't judge you for being lazy.
In fact, they'll probably join you.
9. They're great listeners.
When it seems that you don't have anyone to talk to, just talk to your dog. They can't talk back, but they will be there for you.
