There are certain things to look for when deciding on a dog breed. 

Let’s examine what those things are.

Choosing a breed that compliments you and your personality is one factor.  If you are choosing a dog as a family pet, ensuring the dog gets along with children is another.  Selecting a breed based on the type of group it falls into is another consideration.  

For example, are you looking for a small dog, such as a Pekingese, Poodle, or Terrier?  Or perhaps you’re looking for a Bulldog, Chow Chow, or Bichon Frise?   No?  Maybe a Beagle or Basset Hound is more to your liking.

The point is that a dog’s temperament does play a role in deciding what type of dog you choose.  In addition, you may wish to ask yourself these questions before deciding.

* Do you want a dog that is large in size?

* Will the dog fit in with my lifestyle?   

* Would you prefer a short haired or long-haired canine?  

* What type of facial features are you looking for?

* Do you want a dog that is feisty, dependent, or one with a playful personality?

* Would you prefer a show dog?

* Will your dog remain indoors or would you prefer a dog that resides outside?

* Do you wish to have a guard dog?

* How much time and attention can you devote to the dog?

* Do you like a dog that listens and follows your commands?

* Would you prefer a dog that is independent and can be left alone?

* Is a mixed breed more to your liking?

Once you have answered these questions, another decision has to be made.  Do you wish to adopt a dog from a shelter, or acquire a specific type of dog from a breeder?

If you choose the latter, there are certain steps you can take.  

For example, let’s assume you choose a Bichon Frise.  They are great with children, have a playful personality, are very loving, and can readily be found through a breeder online.  The first step is to contact the person and determine if the dog is available.  Some Bichon Frise are highly prized as show dogs.  You can easily check online to trace their pedigree.  This will give you a clear indication that there has been no cross-breeding and their lineage is intact.

Another way to acquire a dog is from a pet store.  Be careful here, however, because most pet stores carry dogs that come from puppy mills and may not be purebreds.  Some of these pet store owners are an unscrupulous lot who may not give you details as to the health of the dog either.

Before choosing a specific breed, locate the type of dog you would like and then spend some time with the dog.  Bring the children along so that you can watch the interaction between the children and the dog.  Find out as much information about the breed as you can.  In this way, you can make an informed decision

If you find a dog that totally fits your lifestyle either in a single household or family unit, then you will feel comfortable to either adopt or purchase the dog without having any future concerns.