There are really a number of considerations in selecting a family pet, especially a dog. This should be a decision that is well thought out and something you are prepared to enter into for the long-haul. So some rules of thumb in selecting a family dog.

1. Do you live in a residential home or an apartment? This is a key question as different breeds require different accommodations. Some breeds will require running space and will need a backyard to play in while others will reside primarily indoors.

2. Do you have toddlers, young children, or teenagers in the home? Each age group will have differences in their interactions with a dog. I would always tell families to wait until children are older before getting a dog. Young children do not always understand how to play with animals and can wind up getting hurt.

3. How much time do you have to spend with a dog? Dogs are social animals and different breeds will require different amounts of time. Some breeds are better suited to longer periods without you at home during the day than others.

4. Who will be the person primarily responsible for the care of the dog? This includes bathing, walking, feeding, and cleaning up after. Make certain that this person is prepared for the time required and that you have a back-up plan if it is a child or teenager.

I love animals and have had dogs and cats in my family my entire life. If this is your first family pet than I would say study different breeds; their temperament, their history and determine which fit your family life style the best. Consider even what part of the country you live in and how the dog will survive in the summers and winters there. Also, consider your financial position as pets are not cheap; shots, food, and who cares for them over family holidays are all things that must be factored into your budget.

I hope this helps.