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Choosing a Dog
You're at the mall. Something draws you to the pet store, and soon you find yourself saying, "It's so cuuuute!"
This is the time to pull back on your own leash. You should never buy a pet on impulse! Dog ownership is a lifetime commitment (at least for the dog).
Do your research on the breeds that interest you. Go to the library, surf the Internet, ask dog owners and breeders, visit kennels, read dog magazines, visit dog shows and ask around.
Consider the size of the adult dog, grooming requirements, health issues (especially with regard to your environment), exercise requirements, personality and temperament.
Make sure that the puppy will be a good match for each member of your family and any other pets you may already have.
When you've found a puppy you like, make sure it is fully weaned and ready for independence.
Where to get a dog
Animal Shelter
Unless you are intent on getting a purebred, your local animal shelter is perhaps the best place to look for a dog. And even if you want a purebred, you might get lucky.
Here, mixed breeds abound, and many people say they make the best pets. Mixed breeds vary greatly in size, appearance and personality--some of them even look and act like purebreds.
Bear in mind that a mixed breed puppy may grow up to be a different size than you expected. Talk with the people at the animal shelter. Often they can tell you something about a particular dog's personality or background.
Some animal shelters display adoptable pets at local pet supply stores, so you might look there, as well. In either case, expect to pay an adoption fee. There may be other costs involved such as spaying or neutering, which is often required before adoption.
Individuals
Check the classified ads of your newspaper or pick up a free shopper/trader newspaper at the grocery store. Community bulletin boards are another good place to look.
See if you can get a feel for the kind of environment the puppy was brought up in. Look for happy, healthy dogs raised in a clean home or kennel.
Breeders
If you want a purebred dog, start by contacting a local all-breed club. Visit a dog show, ask around or look for leads in popular dog magazines.
A good referral resource regarding breeds and breeders is the American Kennel Club: http://www.akc.org/breeds/groups/index.cfm
When talking with breeders, use your intuition, inspect the facilities, and ask questions about how they raise their puppies.
A good breeder will ask you "qualifying" questions to make sure you are a good match for the puppy. A good breeder will continue to offer advice and support as your dog matures.
Stop off at the Vet
Be sure to have your new pet examined by a veterinarian, preferably before you take it home. This is especially important if you have other pets. Ask about tests and vaccinations that are recommended (or required by law).
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