I got my French Bulldog 4 years ago. She was a surprise from my hubby (then boyfriend). I had been harping on for a whole year about how I wanted to get a Frenchie. He did the research, found a reputable breeder and surprised me for my birthday. And to this day that was the best birthday surprise I have ever received.

Four years and two dogs later, I inherited a 110-lb mastiff named Brooklyn when Yahve and I moved in together. I’ve learned a lot and my life is definitely different with dogs than without. I love them both and the laughs and love I get from them outweighs the work it takes into having them.

But there are a few things that I wish I would have known before I became a dog owner.