When you want to get a dog, you might think that choosing the right dog breed is the first thing you should do. But actually, it isn't. Because it may be that you shouldn't get a purebred dog at all.
Many people are "absolutely sure" they want a purebred dog – but often they're basing that decision on beliefs about purebred dogs that aren't true.
So the first thing you should do is decide whether a PUREBRED dog, a CROSSBRED dog, or a MIXED BREED dog is actually right for you.
Read these three articles to help you decide:
Next you need to find out WHICH PHYSICAL AND BEHAVIORAL TRAITS seem right for you, your family, and your lifestyle. Physical and behavioral traits include size, amount of brushing, amount of trimming/clipping, amount of shedding you can tolerate (perhaps taking allergies into account), exercise, and many more.
Read this article to learn more about canine traits:
Dog Breed Traits – Which Characteristics Are Right For You?
Then, after you've determined which traits are right for you, you need to find out WHICH DOG BREEDS tend to HAVE those characteristics.
To learn about dog breeds...
Visit my Dog Breed Reviews.
My Dog Breed Consulting Service
If you're not sure which dog breed is best for you, I do offer a Dog Breed Consulting Service....a personal consultation where I will recommend which dog breeds are good matches for you (very reasonable cost).
Learn about my Dog Breed Consulting Service
Now, after you've decided on the right dog breed for you, you need to find an INDIVIDUAL DOG who actually HAS the characteristics you want – or a puppy who has a good chance of DEVELOPING those characteristics as he grows up.
These articles will help you find a good puppy or adult dog:
Dog Breeders: How To Find a Good Dog Breeder
How to tell the difference between good breeders and clueless breeders.
Adopting a Dog From Rescue
Pros and cons of adopting a dog from a rescue group.
Adopting a Dog From The Animal Shelter
How to find a good purebred dog, crossbred dog, or mixed breed dog at the animal shelter or humane society.
Pet Shop Puppies: Buying a Puppy From a Pet Store
Should you consider buying a puppy from a petshop or pet store?
Male Dogs versus Female Dogs
Male dogs and female dogs have different characteristics as pets. Is a male or a female right for you?
How To Choose a Puppy
How to test the temperament and personality of puppies and pick the best puppy in a litter.
AKC Registered Puppies: Are "AKC Papers" Important?
Should you consider buying only AKC registered puppies? Do AKC papers and pedigrees really matter?