Hey sophiesmom, I have never once said no to a puppy or an adult dog that needed a home but then for a long time I lived on a farm with plenty of running around room. I think you have to be realistic - if it can help you to put your own needs last - it can be a great therapy - the joy I get from my spectacularly individual and demanding dogs really puts my own needs into perspective - whether its their needs for food and water or their demand that I put my own emotions and issues last and play or laugh. They really are wonderful. However, their need are the main issue, If you have days where you just can't - where getting out of bed is not something you can face, don't have a dog, puppy or adult. It is not their fault how you feel and they should not suffer because of it. If you are in control enough that you know that you WILL respond to their needs then go for it. What I will say however is that there are so many lovely dogs waiting to be adopted and an adult, house trained dog may be just the ticket especially and older dog who may not be so demanding of your time and require so much exercise. Basically all I want to say is please weigh up what they can bring to you as opposed to what you MUST bring to them regardless.