Looking for a new dog or puppy? Research theses and find exactly what your
looking for.
Adoption
If you're considering adoption, check the phone book for nearby shelters and/or animal rescue organizations.
These places are filled with real animal-lovers who go to great pains to take good care of their dogs, and meet all their needs. They make sure that the dogs in their care are properly
trained, have adequate veterinary care, are spayed or neutered and go to the right adoptive family. Don't be put off by the fact that adopting a pet means he most likely doesn't have a pedigree. There are lots of other advantages to adopting a pet:
The feel-good factor - You'll feel great knowing you're giving an otherwise homeless
dog a loving home. You may have even saved his life.
He's easy to like - Most shelter dogs are well socialized and flexible. They often take to their new families very quickly, becoming loving and loyal companions.
He's healthy - Shelter dogs are exceptionally well cared for and will be up-to-date on all their shots. Remember that the folks who work in these shelters do so because they simply love animals. They are going to want to know just as much about you as you want to know about your new dog.
Knowledge is power - You should be able to glean lots of great
information about your dog from the shelter workers. They will probably know plenty about your dog's main breed and temperament, as well as all his lovable little quirks.
Incidentally, if you're adopting a free dog from a private owner, be careful to assess the care the dog has been receiving. 
And don't take a puppy away from its mother too soon; that's just asking for trouble.
Purebred Purchase
If you're looking for a puppy with papers, make sure the breeder is reputable by considering these factors:
Are the dogs well cared for? Do they have adequate nutrition, clean water, shelter and veterinary care?
Is the breeder a member of the national and local organizations for the breed he's raising? If so, is he following the strict guidelines set forth by the organization?
The breeder should be exceptionally knowledgeable about the breed's traits and
temperament. A good breeder should give you more information than you need or want. Look for the passion of someone who is doing something he truly loves to do. Observe him closely when he is interacting with the dogs. You'll be able to tell how important they are to him. Finally, wherever you decide to look for your dog, remember to learn as much as you can about him, in order to ease his transition into your life.
