As with all animals you bring into your home your need to do some research into the care and feeding of each breed. You need to see how large they might actually grow. Medical bills and food costs should weigh into your decision. If you have not had a pet before, check out some local vets offices and find out how much regular care is going to cost. Just like a new baby, they will need regular shots and "doctor" visits.

My mom had finished raising kids by the time Champ came along, but if you have children you need to look at the impact a 100 pound dog will have on your three year old. The small puppy who was playing with your kids one year and 50 pounds ago does not understand that he might hurt the same child. Some children see toy breeds as just that; toys. They may unintentionally hurt your pet while playing. Even your beloved pet is still an animal. If they get hurt while playing, they may nip or bite for their own protection. Your children should go with you to any obedience classes to help them learn how to own a dog as well.

Are you a quiet book reading person? Great!! There are still large breeds for you. Mastiffs for instance are a quiet larger breed that like a slower paced life. Are you a runner or like activity? Worker breeds such as collies or shepherds love to have room to run and have things to do. Jack Russell Terriers are well known for being among the high energy of smaller dogs. There are many different types of behaviors and activity levels that will fit in with what you like to do.

Another thing to consider is your home before a pet. Do you live in a three-floor walk up apartment, or have a sprawling yard? Will you be able to let your pet out or do you need to have a doggie door? If you have to walk your dog on a lease, will you be able to control him as he gets bigger? Have you heard about Crate Training? You will need to do a little research into the different methods and ideas.

Look at your surroundings before getting your pet and see what adjustments you may have to make. That trash can without a lid is an appealing new food source for a dog that can and will knock it over. Moving breakable objects to higher levels is a needed idea.

How concerned are you with furniture? Hair and fur are a fact of life for a pet owner, but some breeds such as Poodles or Terriers have less to see. Many animals are chewers. Knowing how your pet likes to play can allow you to buy appropriate toys for them to chew and not your sofa.