try to get the rabies vaccine before you bring the dog home.

I would look for a no kill shelter instead of the pound... they usually treat the animals better there...

Don't make an emotional decision. Look inside the dog's mouth and ears to see that it's in good health. I got stuck with lots of vet bills adopting a cat with health problems in June. Go on www.petfinder.org and look for a specific dog when you visit a shelter. Remember, it's a commitment for the life of the dog and you should go into it with the "forever" aspect clearly in mind. I adopted a cat from www.rbari.org in Oakland, NJ and he has brought me 6 years of joy. He is touch and go with his health now, but he was there for over 2 years before we got him. Oh, also.. calculate the cost. A dog is a considerable expense in food, medical care, damaged goods they chew and destroy, kennel holding when you go away... If you cannot afford it financially or fit it in your schedule, be realistic and just borrow a dog on occasion.

Make sure the dog has had its potabella shot,or you may buy a kennel cough puppy and not know it. Get a very strong puppy one that is active from the beggining,look for fleas,biting fleas can cause worms,look in ears for ear mites, find out if the pound will fix the dog later for a smaller fee. Ask for papers if available , if you have kids make sure you bring the kids along to see the reaction of the dog,,and most of all find one that will be a great addition to your family,Good luck to you.

Make sure you have adequate time and space for a dog. Be honest with yourself about that. Make sure the dog is checked out healthwise. Beyond that, go with your heart. We used to adopt dogs from the local shelter when I was a kid. We'd just know in our hearts when we found the right one! Good luck!

First of all KUDOS! to you for going to the pound for your pet. Now, most shelters have a get acquainted area - use it. Pay close attention to the dogs interactions and reactions. Ask lots of questions i.e. history of the animal, shots administered, observations of employees, etc. Hopefully, you have given thought to the type of companion you want, the amount of time you have to devote to an animal, and the size of your living space. Happy Hunting!

Sure. Take the dog out and interact with it, if you can. At my shelter, they have an area where you can walk the dogs and get to know them. Consider an older dog, please. There a huge benefits to an older dog. They are calmer, usually housebroken, and are so very in need of a home. They will give you every bit as much love as that puppy that everyone wants. If you are set on a puppy, PLEASE be aware of how big the dog is going to get and keep that in mind. So many pound dogs end up there because people get cute little pups that grow into big dogs that they don't want. Big dogs need love, too. Depending on the shelter, most dogs that are up for adoption have been at least somewhat checked to make sure they are suitable for adoption. They have had 'socialization' tests. Be sure to ask the staff about any potential dog, though, and get their input on how well they believe the particular dog would be with children, other animals, etc. Follow your heart. Consider CAREFULLY, in advance, what you expect and really want from the dog and go from there. Some dogs are going to be active, hyper, energetic, and yappy. Other dogs will be more timid, quiet, and gentle. Good luck! Thank you for adopting from your local shelter. :)

Take the dog out of the kennel and let him play around you and your family. Don't be shy about asking to to play with the dog. You will be playing with your dog at home and will need to see how he acts with your family. Don't get him on impulse because he is cute. All dogs are cute. Make sure he is the right size and temperament for your family's lifestyle. A cute couch potato won't fit in with an on-the-go family. A run-around-every-waking-moment dog, no matter how cute, won't fit in with a family that likes to sit around and watch TV and play video games. Don't meet your dog tomorrow and take him home that day. Give yourself time to live with the idea of your new pet and make sure you have everything you'll need to care for him properly. Also, don't be afraid to pick an older dog. They make excellent pets and are easily trained. Old dogs can learn new tricks. Good luck and I hope you and your new family member have many happy years together.

Try not to choose just by looks. And don't go straight for puppies, older dogs have lots of good qualities too. :)

Get the puffiest one there is... oh wait... you did. =)

Get a dog thats 2 or so. so you dont have to house break it and all that stuff.

Dexy =)