If you've made the decision to acquire a furry companion, you're making a commitment that will hopefully last for years. This is an important step, so you need to do a little homework before you go puppy shopping. Research different breeds to find which ones best match your circumstances. Do you honestly have time to exercise a high-energy breed? Do you have room for a big dog? If you have children, which dogs best tolerate kids?

Once you've decided on a breed, locate reputable breeders in your area. Make sure the breeder is not running a puppy mill. Try to talk to someone who has purchased a pup from the breeder and get feedback from them.

When you visit the breeder, chances are that you will have several puppies from which to choose, including litter mates. They all look so sweet and cuddly. How do you pick the best one?

Watch the puppies at play. Does one seem more aggresive than the others? Does it seem like the boss? You don't want this one. He thinks he's the alpha dog and will be more difficult for you to train.

Does oneof the puppies sit in the corner, away from the other pups? You don't want this one, either. He's too shy and might be difficult to socialize properly.

After you've watched the puppies play together, call them to you. A puppy that comes to you boldly, with head and tail held high, are more assertive and could turn out to be more aggressive in nature. Don't choose this one.

A puppy that hangs back and is unwilling to come to you is too fearful, so you don't want this one, either.

You should choose a puppy that comes to you willingly, with its head slightly lowered and its tail held level or below its back. Chances are very good that this pup will be trainable and easily socialized.

Once you get your hands on the pup, hug its head closely to you. It should remain in this position for a couple of seconds, submitting to your embrace, and not try to break your hold. The pup should have a covering of flesh over its ribs but should not be overly fat. Its eyes and nose should be free of drainage and matter. It should appear alert and happy.

Before introducing the puppy into your home, take it for a complete vet check. You don't want the family to fall in love with the little guy before he gets the OK from the vet. There are terrible diseases, like Parvo, that can kill a puppy in a short period of time, so it's better to be safe before giving your heart away.

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