If you already have a dog, another can make your home even more fun. However, your parents may not like the idea for a few reasons. These animals, in fact, require a lot of effort and money. If you want to ask for a second dog, be prepared in time. Research the breed you want and take care of the one you already have to prove your responsibility. Talk to your parents directly about your dream. Keep a calm, mature attitude and try to compromise if they say no. If they don't change their position, accept the rejection for now and try asking again in the future.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Deciding which Approach to Follow
Step 1. Earn points by taking care of your dog
Your behavior in the days leading up to the question may affect your parents' response. Try to get into their good graces by looking after the dog you already have. This shows that you are responsible enough to look after another pet.
- Go ahead and do more dog-related activities. For example, if your mom usually takes him out for a night walk, offer to do it yourself. You can also take the initiative and feed him when he needs it.
- You should also spend time with your dog. Your parents may be worried that by buying a second pet you will no longer pay attention to the first one. Show that you are very fond of the dog you have now, so that they understand that you will value both of them.
Step 2. Research dogs and the care they need
Your parents need to understand that you have thought about your decision very well. By researching this field, you will show that you are ready and that you understand what responsibilities you will have. You could even write a short treatise on how you plan to take care of the new dog.
- Start with the basics. Find out how many times a day you have to feed the new dog, when you have to get him out and consider the time needed for grooming, bathing and playing.
- You should also think about how to introduce the two dogs. Do research on specialized sites and prepare an action plan. For example, you should keep the animals in different rooms for a few days before the actual meeting.
Step 3. Think about what to say
Arrive at the time of the conversation with a pretty clear idea of what you want to say. There is no need to write a word-for-word script, but decide in advance how to ask the question.
It may be helpful to write down what you think and reread it. This way you can identify what you want to get out of the situation, presenting the topic more effectively
Step 4. Choose the right time and place to talk
Context can influence your parents' response. If you talk to them when they are stressed or busy, they may not listen to you. Choose a distraction-free place at a time when both of your parents are free from busy schedules and relatively relaxed.
For example, if you have a quiet dining room in your house, you can ask there. If your parents sit in the dining room and have coffee on a Sunday morning, this is probably the best time to ask because they will be relatively relaxed
Part 2 of 3: Talk to Your Parents
Step 1. Discuss the positives
Try to make the idea of getting a new dog eye-catching by talking about the best aspects. For example, you can say that a second pet will keep the one you already have company. In addition, it also points out the benefits for the whole family. Having a new dog to train, take out and play with will give everyone the opportunity to exercise more. You will also spend more time together, because you can take the dog out into nature on the weekend or take obedience courses together.
Step 2. Demonstrate that you understand the responsibilities imposed by a new dog
Many children want new animals on a whim. Your parents may get the impression that you haven't thought about the practical side of the matter. If they understand that you did, they will consider you mature enough to handle a second pet, so explain your plans to take care of your new four-legged friend.
- Say you know there will be more work to be done. For example, you can say, "I'll take the dog out and feed him."
- Talk about everything you have learned in your research about introducing a second dog into the house. For example, you can say, "We can introduce the dogs slowly. The new one can stay in my room until Fido gets used to his presence."
Step 3. Show gratitude
Your parents may be hesitant to say yes if they think you are spoiled. Showing your gratitude will help you avoid the problem and get an affirmative answer. Let your parents know that you respect them a lot when you ask for a new dog.
For example, say, "I know you work hard and I really appreciate you getting me a dog. I understand that looking after a baby and a dog is difficult for you who both have full-time jobs."
Step 4. Listen to your parents' point of view
Don't interrupt them when they talk. Remember, there are always two versions of a story. They may have good reason to object to the idea of getting another dog, so hear what they have to say.
- Get your parents talking. After you have expressed your opinion, remain silent and let them contribute to the dialogue too.
- Try to show empathy towards your parents when they talk. They work hard to make money and want to spend their money wisely. A dog can be quite expensive and it will take a long time for him to settle into his new home. Their free time is probably not a lot, so it is reasonable that they have concerns.
Part 3 of 3: Coping with Rejection
Step 1. Don't fight
If your parents say no or seem unsure, don't argue. The more mature you behave, the more likely they are to allow you to get another dog. These animals carry a lot of responsibilities, so you need to show that you are capable of taking them on.
Instead of arguing, listen to your parents calmly. Don't say, "It's not fair that you don't let me get another dog." Try instead: "Ok, I understand why this is too big a commitment for you."
Step 2. Calmly ask why your parents are opposed to the idea
If you receive a no, it may be helpful to ask why. This allows you to better understand your parents' point of view and perhaps come to a solution or compromise.
Ask the question respectfully. You can say, "I understand you don't want a second dog. Can you tell me why?"
Step 3. Think about whether you can offer something in return
Maybe your parents want you to learn the value of commitment and responsibility. If you can find a way to "earn" the dog, you may be able to convince them to give in to your demands. For example, you can offer to improve your grades in school in exchange for the pet you want.
- If your parents start with a no, gradually introduce the possibility of earning the dog. Try asking first, saying, "Is there any way I can earn the dog as a reward?"
- Give your parents some examples of what you could do to earn the dog. For example: "I know you are not happy with my math performance. What if I promised to improve my grade before the end of the year in exchange for the dog?".
Step 4. Offer to cover some of the expenses
If costs are an issue, join in with your own money. If you have a part-time job or are willing to start one, ask your parents if they would accept the idea of a new dog if you paid part of the expenses. For example, you can propose to pay the cost of adopting from the kennel, or to buy food and a kennel.
Say, "If money is an issue, I can pay the cost of the adoption. I'll start saving from my job until I have enough funds."
Step 5. Accept no for now
Even if you asked calmly and maturely, your parents may still say no. A dog is a big responsibility for the whole family and they may not feel ready to deal with it. Instead of arguing, accept the answer with maturity. In the future, your parents will be more willing to listen to your requests if you show that you can accept rejection with class.
