APA Dog Readiness Test it was created as an apa analysis of real life with a dog, not an idealized image that we often see on social networks. This text helps prospective owners to honestly assess whether they are ready for a dog or just the idea of a dog. dog is one of the most beautiful, but also the most demanding decisions that a person can make. A dog is not a lifestyle supplement, it is not a seasonal decision and it is not a "motivation to move more". A dog is a living being that depends on our routine, discipline and long-term commitment. That's exactly why the APA dog readiness test was created - as a tool that helps to make a decision consciously, not impulsively.
This text is apa signpost for everyone who is thinking about a dog, but also for those who want to be sure that they are really ready - not only emotionally, but also in life.
APA dog readiness test - a practical tool before adoption
In practice, the same thing often happens: the decision is made with the heart, not with routine. Photos on social networks, feelings of loneliness or the desire to "do a good deed" obscure the reality of everyday life with a dog.
The dog, however, does not live in the photographs. He lives in the morning awakenings, in the rain and snow, in the days when we are sick, tired or without will.
U apa analysis relationship between humans and dogs, the key problem is not a lack of love - but lack of preparation.
Responsible ownership also includes legal obligations, such as mandatory dog chipping in BiH, which we wrote about in detail on ApA-Channel. https://apachannel.com/obavezno-cipovanje-pasa-bih/
The idea of "Three weeks before the dog" (apa roadmap)
Before the dog enters the home, the human should enter the the reality of life with a dog. That's why there's the idea of "Three Weeks Before the Dog" – a simple but powerful experiment.
21 days of behaving as if the dog already exists.
No dog. No emotion. Just a commitment.
Basic rules of the experiment:
- Getting up every day at 6:00 am, without exceptions
- Walk from 20–30 minutes, without phones and music
- Going outside regardless of weather conditions
- Daily Asking Questions: How do I feel? Is this a burden or a responsibility on me?
This experiment is not meant to discourage anyone, but yes clarify the truth. If you can't handle three weeks of routine without a dog, you'll have a hard time handling years of responsibility with one.
APA dog readiness test - a practical tool
In order to translate this idea into a concrete tool, it was created APA Dog Readiness Test.
The test does not judge what kind of person you are. He is pointing for the dog to experience your current lifestyle.
Responsible dog ownership does not end in the apartment or yard, but continues in everyday situations such as moving around the city and using public transportation, which we wrote about in detail in a special APA guide on dogs on public transportation. https://apachannel.com/psi-u-javnom-prevozu/
APA Test: Are you ready for a dog or just a picture with a dog?
Instructions: Answer honestly and add up the points. Each question has three answers (0 / 2 / 5 points).
1️⃣ Your ideal weekend currently looks like...
- a) Slow start to the day without obligations (0)
- b) Activities I choose only if they suit me (2)
- c) Getting up early and routine regardless of plans (5)
2️⃣ It's raining hard and cold outside. You…
- a) You stay at home (0)
- b) You only go out if you really have to (2)
- c) You get dressed and go out because you know it's an obligation (5)
3️⃣ Monthly expenses for the dog...
- a) I hope they are not big (0)
- b) I plan basic expenses (2)
- c) I have a plan and reserve for emergency situations (5)
4️⃣ Your attitude towards the orderliness of the home is...
- a) I have a hard time with clutter (0)
- b) Tolerant of minor changes (2)
- c) Aware of hair, mud and damage (5)
5️⃣ When you are sick or exhausted...
- a) You avoid obligations (0)
- b) Do the minimum (2)
- c) You know that the dog has to go out and then (5)
6️⃣ Your daily schedule is…
- a) Unpredictable (0)
- b) Mostly stable (2)
- c) Stable and suitable for routine (5)
7️⃣ Long-term commitment (10+ years) for you is...
- a) Too high a limit (0)
- b) Depends on the circumstances (2)
- c) Acceptable liability (5)
8️⃣ Travel and absences…
- a) Frequent and unplanned (0)
- b) Occasional and organized (2)
- c) I always plan the care of the dog (5)
9️⃣ Your patience level is…
- a) Low (0)
- b) Moderate (2)
- c) High and aware of the learning process (5)
🔟 When a dog makes a mistake...
- a) I get frustrated easily (0)
- b) I'm trying to understand (2)
- c) I understand it as part of learning (5)
How to interpret APA test results
0–20 points | You are not ready right now
Your lifestyle right now is more about freedom than routine. This does not mean that you will never be ready, but that you can now he would not have the stability he needs.
21–35 points | On the borderline
There is a good intention, but the routine is not yet consistent.
Apa signpost: Before making a decision, do the „Three Weeks Before the Dog“ experiment.
36–50 points | You are likely ready
Your answers show a realistic understanding of life with a dog - both the good days and the hard days.
What if the test shows you're not ready yet?
It's not a defeat. It's information.
Dog readiness is builds, does not prove.
Start with:
- by getting up earlier
- walks without excuses
- by stabilizing routine
- realistic cost planning
A dog does not seek perfection. Search consistency.
Apa message for the end
Adopting a dog is not an act of mercy, but contract for ten years or more.
If you're not ready today - that's okay.
It is much better to be honest before the dog, than to give up on the dog later.
A dog is not a phase. A dog is a responsibility.
And responsible decisions are always the best form of love.