The real secret to choosing an adult dog is taking enough time to observe their habits, behavior and disposition. Proper training could possibly correct many bad behaviors and teach good ones. Yes, you can actually teach an old dog new tricks! However, not all behavior problems can be overcome.

A new puppy, on the other hand, is like a lump of clay waiting for you to shape it. You can possibly raise it to become your own perfect companion. This obviously assumes that you know how to train your pet competently and also have the opportunity and desire to do so.

If you live in an apartment, you may think it’s best to restrict your puppy’s possibilities to small dogs. But you don’t have to. Large dogs can certainly make great roommates, assuming they get some exercise during walks or trips to the dog park. Larger domestic dogs are usually gentler and quieter than small domestic dogs (they bark much less to make the neighbors complain). Dogs of any size will make excellent apartment dogs as long as they are properly trained.

For those who have small children, would a smaller pet dog be much better? Not necessarily. Any type of dog, regardless of size or breed, can become startled and agitated around little ones. A pet dog that feels threatened is more likely to bite. Of course, a chihuahua’s bite will likely be less severe compared to a rottweiler’s. Most dogs of any proportion could be good companions for children if they are properly trained and well socialized with little ones (but also make sure your young ones are taught how to behave around dogs).

Immediately after choosing a young puppy or an adult dog, the next challenge is: Which type of dog is better: mongrel (mutt) or purebred? You’ll find enthusiasts on both sides of this question who would in no way contemplate owning the “other” option. Then there are the people who just want an awesome companion and don’t care whether or not he is a mutt or maybe an AKC champion.

As with the decision for a puppy or an adult dog, you will find pros and cons to both the mutt and purebred alternatives.

Purebred young puppies tend to be more predictable in terms of physical and behavioral characteristics. On many occasions, before selecting a purebred puppy, you should check the appearance, friendliness, basic social manners, and general health of its parents. Sometimes too much breeding/inbreeding, or breeding to achieve an attractive physical attribute (for example, a Pug’s compressed nose), could create health problems. Purebred dogs can be expensive. Depending on the breed of dog, a purebred puppy will typically cost several hundred dollars.

A mutt, on the other hand, is practically a one-of-a-kind dog. If you are adopting a mutt puppy from a friend, you may be able to see what the mother looks like, but the father is usually a complete stranger. If he adopts from a shelter, he can only imagine both parents. Stray dogs generally have fewer health problems and tend to live longer than purebred dogs. And stray pups tend to be cheaper (and sometimes even free).

Once you make these types of initial decisions, you’ll be well on your way to purchasing your next puppy!