Dogs come in all shapes and sizes. Some are pure bred and others are of mixed breeds. The decision to adopt a dog is a big responsibility so you take your time to choose the dog that is best for your family. Size is a major factor. Look at your housing situation and the abilities of household members to handle different size dogs. Coat type is a matter of amount of maintenance and possible professional grooming expense but allergies need to be considered. Factitious housekeepers may have preferences as well and some dogs are messier than others. Research the breed you are considering and check how much exercise each dog needs and how easy they are to train. Also consider the dog’s temperament and tendency to bark. Match this information with your family’s schedule and experience with dogs. Visit any potential dogs but don’t rush to a decision. Contact your Arlington, TX vet to learn more.