'I'm a vet and there are 4 things you must check before getting a dog'A vet has shared four crucial things that people should consider before getting a dog, including the health issues common to dog breeds and the honest lifetime cost of owning a petView Image It's important to make sure you can give a dog the life they deserve (stock image) (Image: Getty Images)A veterinarian has urged everyone thinking about getting a dog to consider four key things before making the commitment, arguing it's the 'single most impactful thing you can do'. To help any prospective dog owners make sure they make a responsible decision for themselves and their furry friends, one UK-based veterinarian named Alex, who goes as 'Alex the Vet' on social media, has urged people to consider four key points before getting a pet. "Number one is the health issues common to that breed, because almost every breed has predispositions," Alex said. ‌Understanding these potential concerns enables owners to identify early symptoms, while also assisting prospective dog owners in anticipating possible veterinary expenses. "Some breeds are two to three times more expensive to keep than others, mostly because of vet bills," Alex explained.