I always see articles on why getting a dog in college is the worst idea you could have, but I barely ever see any articles on why it's the best. I got a dog my sophomore year of college and can honestly say my life is so much better with a dog regardless of how old I am. Yes, sacrifices have to be made in order to care for a dog, especially as a college student. No more sleeping in, no more late nights with the girls and no more carelessly spending money. Having a dog in college is a lot of work, but here are 10 reasons why it's so worth it.

1. You become more active

Dogs constantly require long walks and if you have a dog anything like mine, you NEED these long walks to tire them out! Walking your dog may sound so effortless, but your little rascal is pulling you along the way getting you in shape too!

2. You learn how to budget your money

Having a dog is extremely expensive and you need to know how much of your money will go to your furry best friend each month. You will now spoil your dog instead of yourself!

3. No more sleeping in

While this can be a good thing and a bad thing, your day will be jumpstarted by your pup begging for breakfast. This pushes you to start your day early and to be proactive! However, if you get lucky like I did with a snuggly puppy, you may be able to hop back into bed after the morning walk for an extra hour or two of sleep on the weekends!

4. You avoid that extra drink at the bar

We've all had one of those nights where that one extra drink at the bar was not our best decision. Knowing you have a pup at home waiting for you pushes you to skip that last drink and go share a slice of pizza with them instead.

5. You know who's a bad apple

Dogs are the best judges of character. If you're starting to fall for a guy, introduce him to your dog. If your dog doesn't like him, that probably says something about his personality and if he doesn't like your dog... he's DEFINITELY not a keeper!

6. You're overall happiness increases

There is no doubting that a puppy makes you happier. Coming home from a long and stressful day of work or classes is completely erased by the pure joy of a dog. When you're sad - puppy kisses. When you're stressed - puppy kisses. When you're happy - puppy kisses. There is nothing the love of a dog can't cure!

7. You become more responsible

Caring for a dog teaches you what's important in life and what isn't. You start getting your priorities straight and stop sweating the small stuff.

8. You will laugh harder than you ever have before

My dog pretends she's the toughest pupper on the block. She gives me the side eye and pretends she can't hear me when I yell at her. She is also deathly afraid of popcorn and oven mitts. Watching her bark at and do wind sprints around a popcorn kernel brings the purest form of amusement and laughter to my life.

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9. You never have to be alone

Even when all of your friends are busy, your pup will always be your go to snuggle bud. You can have your scary movie marathon with your furry companion to keep you safe!

10. Unconditional love

No matter what curveball life throws at you, you will always have your best friend by your side.