I want a dog and my mom keeps saying no

I know how you feel; for the longest time my parents didn’t let me have a dog too. I never stopped asking until they finally suprised me with a puppy. Sikashimmer’s answer is really good. Let’s take it to the next level. Tell your mom that you would like to volunteer at your local animal shelter. Everytime you come home, instead of asking for one, tell your mom about your experience and prove to her how your shelter experience is making you a more responsible person. After a few months, ask her if you can FOSTER one. Tell her that you’re NOT keeping it but SAVING LIVES. Don’t bring home a puppy because it’ll ruin it for you (chewing, crying, pooping, ect..). Bring home an older dog that is already HOUSEBROKEN. Show your mom how much you love dogs and how responsible you can be. She’ll eventually give in, trust me. I can honestly say that my parents made the right decision when they got me one because it taught me responsibility at a young age.

Note: Fostering a dog is really great b/c you really are saving a life, getting experienced with a dog before commiting to one, and influence people around you to help save animal’s lives. I’ve volunteered and it was worth every minute!

Being a dog owner, I know that it’s harder than it really looks. It’s not the “awww, how cute” 24/7. You see someone running with their dog in the park laughing away and you think that’s how your story is going to be? Think again b/c they require so much time and commitment. A lot of people don’t know what they’re getting themselves into when getting a dog and that’s why so many dogs are left at shelters to die. Of course with proper training and exercise, their bond with you is absolutely priceless and they really do become a family member. Because I’m a dog lover myself, every trouble is WORTH it! I attached a picture of my Pomeranian, Angel.

Good luck and hope I’ve helped!