So, here's the deal... I REAAAALLLYY want a dog/ puppy. However my mum says no. Originally my dad said no but now he's just saying fine. I am 11 and I'm very responsible for my age. Recently my mum said if you can get enough money to buy a dog then we'll talk about it again. So I'm looking for a way to convince them to say yes. Now isn't a great time to be spending loads of money because my dad lost his job last summer, so I'd be perfectly willing to wait. I just need something to work towards.
I already get A's and A*'s so getting high grades won't convince them. PLEASE HELP!
Thanks - Maddy xx

Dogs cost a lot of money... you don't only have the bills for dog food... and a larger dog can eat a lot of food... but the vet bills for things they need every year... or when they get sick... for the dog license most places require... and unless you own your own home... the extra costs a landlord will charge for pet owners.

Are there animal shelters near you? Visit one or two and check out the dogs. Find out what the shelter changes to adopt a puppy or adult dog (might be a better choice for you). And like smoothy said, there are many more costs after that for food, shots, vet care, illness, collar and leash, beds, etc.

Dogs also live 12 - 17 years and so someone will have to take care of them long after you go to college and move out...

Ps. I live in the UK, thanks for your answers they've helped me understand where my mum is coming from a bit more :D

What you really want is for your parents to have a dog, which you will enjoy and for which they will be responsible. Dogs can live up to around 13 to 15 years. If you are 11, you will leave in about 7 years for university. After that, you will rent a flat... most don't allow dogs, so yours will stay home with your parents, who don't want a dog.

Dogs are really expensive. Mine jumped off a step wrong and it cost $5000 for surgery. That's American currency... for comparison, figure like 2 months pay. Also, I have to pay a dog walker. When I got my dog, I worked at home... things changed and now I'm gone for 10 to 12 hours a day, so I pay someone to come and take care of her needs mid day.

I hate to say this because I also love dogs, but this has to be your parents' decision. They have to assume the responsibility to support and provide for pets. You can make the decision when you grow up, and can take full responsibility yourself.