Are you thinking of having a dog? You have to do a little soul searching first because there are plenty of pure breeds (over 500), let alone the numerous “designer” breeds and mixed breed dogs. Some of the things to ask yourself include:

– if the dog is large, medium or small
– what type of dog will best fit into your lifestyle
– how much exercise the new dog will need and how much you can give it
– How much time are you willing to spend training a dog?
– is moving well or not
– are you ready for an energetic puppy or a senior dog?
– Are you looking for a way to teach kids responsibility?
– a male or female dog is better
– Are you planning to travel with or without your dog?
– what type of dog fits best in your house or apartment
– is your new dog just for you or for the whole family
– Can your budget handle the start-up and ongoing maintenance costs?

Take the time to figure out the real reasons for getting a dog and work out all the issues before you take the plunge. Research breeds and breeders and before choosing the dog talk to your veterinarian about the characteristics of the breed you have selected. If you want a senior dog that is already trained and needs to be rescued, contact your local animal shelter. You can inquire about the types of dogs available for adoption and even be put on a list to be contacted if a dog of your choice becomes available. There are pet rescue sites on the Internet with dogs that need to be adopted as well.

Don’t be fooled by the latest hot dogs if they aren’t the personality type for you. These dogs always seem very well behaved and can do interesting tricks. Remember that the dogs you see on TV or in movies like the Jack Russell Terrier in Frasier, or the Dalmatians in Disney’s Dalmatian movies, or the Chihuahua in Taco Bell commercials have been well trained. Unless you’re willing to spend the time or money for that level of training, you should think twice. You will have many wonderful years with your new dog if you take the time to make the best decision.