Once you have made the decision to get a dog, you have to make the decision on where to get the dog from. There are many options out there ranging from pet stores, breeders, pounds and other organizations. Before you buy, research the organization, breeder or store to make sure they are not fronting for a puppy mill. Puppy mills are horrible places and you do not want to support those businesses. Then go see the place you are buying from. The place should be clean, smell clean (not of bleach!) and the dogs should be happy and playful. If you visit the place and get a bad feeling, don’t buy from there.

Here are some tips to help you on your way to choosing where to get a dog or puppy from:

1. Animal Shelters:These can be a great place to pick a dog from. Sometimes you can even find a pure-bred dog in the shelters. Shelter dogs are sometimes trained, and sometimes not. Many come from circumstances where they were not loved or cared for. Talk to the people at the shelter to get an idea of personality. Also, many shelters will let you play with the dog, or take it out on a walk, before you take it home. Bring everyone in the family to the shelter to pick the dog so everyone can interact with the dog. Otherwise, the dog may act fine towards you at the shelter, and hate your husband.

2. Rescue Organizations:These organizations are generally dedicated to one breed, or one situation of dog. There are rescue groups for Labradors and Greyhounds. There are even some groups that just take whatever animals they can from the shelter to prevent the animals from being put down. Rescue groups are dedicated to finding good matches for their dogs, not simply getting the dogs into a home. Some rescue organizations keep their dogs in foster families until the dogs are ready to be adopted. This means there is someone with a lot of information about the dog - so be sure to talk with them. Bring the whole family, as the rescue group may require the whole family to agree on the dog before letting the dog go home with you.

3. Breeders:Breeders are dedicated to one breed of dog, and are the most expensive option. However, if you are longing for one breed, or specific characteristics, then this is the option for you. Make sure the breeder is a good breeder, and not a backyard operation. A good breeder has records, certifications and will be willing to show you all of these. A breeder’s place should be clean and filled with fun. If the puppies are whining, the parents are no where to be seen, or the cages are really small - consider going elsewhere. One good way to find a breeder is to ask a vet. You can also get a referral from the American Kennel Club or other dog clubs. If you have a bad feeling when you visit the breeder, leave.

Whatever option you choose, make sure the dog is the right dog for you. This dog will be part of your family for years to come, and you want to make sure it is a right fit.