Before going out and getting a dog, consider this. Most rescue or shelter dogs would never have been given-up if their owner had done some research. Some people never fully understand the huge commitment involved with having a dog until it's too late. You need to be sure that you are willing to sacrifice sleep, everyday routine, a spotless house or your free lifestyle. Picking the wrong breed can have the same effect. Know your own limits.

Do your homework. Research the breed type / mix you are interested in. Talk to rescue groups, local vets and breed clubs. Be patient. If you are in a hurry to get a dog, you're more likely to make a mistake.

These are things everyone should consider before getting a dog. The answers can help you decide if you are ready for a dog, the best to get a dog and what breed you think might fit nicely into your family and your lifestyle.

Things you need to think about:

bulletPuppies are a lot of work, are you prepared for the challenge of a puppy? If the answer is not clear, or is "no" perhaps you would prefer an older dog.
bulletAre you willing to spend a lot of time on training or would you like to spend as little time as possible on training? (Be warned: even dogs reputed to be "easily" trainable take a great deal of effort and time!)
bulletHow much room does your house have for a dog? How much room are you willing to give up, for your new dog?
bulletDo you have a highly decorated home with many breakable items, which are not replaceable?
bulletDo you have a yard or will you need to walk the dog for elimination purposes?
bulletIs your yard fenced? Do you have a dog run or will you build one? Will you be able to install a doggie door?
bulletHow old are your children? This is important! A new puppy is like adding a toddler to the family.
bulletDo you have a hectic, full lifestyle or do you have time to accommodate an additional family member?
bulletDo you anticipate lifestyle changes (i.e.; marriage, relocation, staring a family) that would cause you to have to surrender a dog?
bulletDo you care about hair all over the house?
bulletIs anyone allergic to dog dander in your home?
bulletHow much grooming time are you willing to spend on a dog? Can you afford to send your dog to the groomers every couple of months if necessary?
bulletHave you considered that most dogs live approximately 8-15 years?
bulletWhere will your dog stay when you go away? Who will care for him/her?
bulletWill this dog be an additional family member or spend a lonely life in the backyard?
bulletWill a dog be able to join you on social outings?
bulletCan you afford the vet bills? They can really add up.
bulletWhat about exercise? Some breeds need a tremendous amount of energy outlet to be a well-mannered housedog. Others need little. But all dogs need ample exercise!
bulletCan you come home at lunch for your dog? Will you hire a dog walker to break up their day, if you work long hours?
bulletAfter a hard day at the office, do you want to come home and exercise the dog and spend quality time with them? You must consider their needs.
bulletWhy do you want a dog?
bulletIs there a particular canine activity you are interested in?
bulletDo you want a couch potato/lap dog?
bulletThe cost of dog supplies can be high; beds, leashes, collars, toys, etc. Can you afford this?
bulletAll dogs should have an education and the cost of training should be considered.

Whether you get your dog at a shelter, rescue, the guy down the street or from another family, you want to know as much as possible about this dog.

Bringing home a rescue dog can be a wonderful experience. As well as researching a specific breed, you must research each mix breed individually before you find the perfect match. Not all rescues or adopted dogs will fit your lifestyle. It is better to pass on a dog than take it because you feel badly, only to find out it may not be a match. This only causes the dog to be abandoned again.

Whatever you are looking for in a companion, do your best to pick a dog that will be with you for the rest of their life. I think dogs are the most wonderful creatures we can share our lives with. Once you find the one, take the time to build a special bond that only a dog can offer. You'll both be happy you did.