Are you and your family ready for that responsibility now?
If you have kids under six years of age, you might want to consider waiting a few years before you get a dog. Having a dog in the family requires children who are mature enough to appropriately interact with a dog, and be responsible (e.g., knowing that doors and gates cannot be left open). Also, if you're a student, in the military or travel frequently for business (or pleasure), you might want to wait until you are more settled and have more time to spend with your dog.   

Do you have time for a dog?
Dogs (and especially puppies) cannot be ignored just because you're tired or busy. They require being fed and walked (exercised) on a regular schedule, lots of care and companionship every day of the year. Many dogs ends up in a shelter because their family didn't realize how much time it took to properly care for their dog. Leaving a dog all day either confined or in a backyard is not the answer. Dogs that are emotionally neglected will show negative behavior.

Are you prepared to handle special problems that dogs can cause?
Flea infestations, chewed furniture, stains on your rugs from dogs who aren't yet "housetrained" and unexpected medical emergencies are unfortunate but common aspects of dog ownership.

Are you allowed to have a dog where you live?
Many rental communities don't allow pets, and those that do often have restrictions. Make sure you know if dogs are allowed where you live and that you have written permission to have the dog you want (e.g., some places won't allow dogs over a certain weight or allow (certain breeds). You should know what the restrictions are before bringing your new companion home. If you have roommates, talk it over, and make sure no one in the house is allergic to dogs or doesn't welcome a new household member. You will be relying on roommates to be responsible too.

Are your home suitable for the dog you have in mind?
Choose a dog that will be comfortable in your surroundings. Buying an energetic dog to share your small apartment may not be a good idea. Your dog will need enough room to move around and play. Giving him/her enough off-site exercise will require quite a bit of time and activity on your part.

Who will care for your dog while you're away?
If you sometimes travel places where you can't take your canine buddy with you, you'll need either reliable friends, neighbors and family members, or the money to pay for a good boarding facility or pet-sitting service.

Are you willing to do what it takes to be responsible?
 There's much to being 'responsible' including: obeying community leash and license laws, keeping identification tags on your dog at all times, being considerate of your neighbors, making sure your yard and home are "dog" cleen, and picking up "dog poop" when taking the dog out for a walk.

So, now the big question?
Are you prepared to open your home, and your heart, and care for your new canine family member for the rest of his/her life? I'm  not trying to dissuade anyone from bringing a dog into their life. But just ask yourself if you can live up to the above asked questions,  if yes, go on and buy yourself a friend for life, a friend that will never let you down, no matter what !

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