Purchasing a dog is something that should never be taken lightly. The dog you are considering today is going to be with you for 8 - 15 years. No matter how badly you may want to own a dog the question that must be answered first is... is your lifestyle or your family's lifestyle going to be good for the dog? A dog is not an accessory of life, it has a life of it's own and deserves a life as good as yours.

Great Danes and studio apartments do not mix. Nor to some breeds and children. Just because you like a particular breed, or want a particular breed, doesn't mean you should own a particular breed. - - - - After Disney released the live action version of 101 Dalmatians over 122 Dalmatians were put up for adoption in our area alone! People were finding out quickly that Dalmatians don't really have patience for children. Just because your kid wants a particular dog doesn't mean you should own it. Eight year olds should not be making the decision on what type of dog you should own.

You need to check out a breeder as much as you would a breed. A quality breeder will breed one or two types of dogs max and will have a limited amount of puppies at any one time. Never trust anyone with lots of puppies and lots of breeds.

Each dog, no matter what the breed, has problems unique unto themselves. Know what you are getting yourself into.

Every breed has a rescue organization. They are dedicated groups of people who save unwanted or abused dogs of a particular breed. Use your favorite search engine and add the word "Rescue" to the type of breed you are looking for. Most groups can be found on the net.

Some of the greatest dogs on this planet are A.A.M. (All American Mutt) Contact a Shelter in your area and save 4 legs worth of love.