Choosing the right puppy for your family is quite a task. There are many questions you should ask yourself before choosing a pet that will be with you for life. Will this dog fit my lifestyle? Is this breed of dog right for me? How active will this dog be and how much exercise will he/she need? Do you have the time and energy to train the puppy? How big will he/she get and how much will he/she shed? Can you afford not only the initial cost of the dog, but the vaccinations, food and anything else that may come up? Where will the dog stay when you are not home? What activities are you willing to give up to spend time with your new furry friend? Before you even walk into a breeder's home or a humane society shelter, these are questions you should have asked and answered.

Then, do your research. Read books. Talk to your vet and other experts, trainers or groomers. When you have narrowed the field on what breed you are interested in, go to a dog show, buy dog books, check out the internet and search out legitimate kennels. Talk to breeders. Learn as much as possible about the breed. Before you go further, be sure you are able to take care of the breed you have in mind. Be sure you have the time, interest and ability to meet his/her needs for its lifetime. And be sure that the puppy (and ultimate grown-up dog) is going to be accepted by the rest of your family as a part of the family unit.