Owning a puppy is wonderful, but it is also a responsibility. The following are some basic questions you should ask before getting a puppy. Some answers will help you decide if you're ready for a puppy or not. If so, other questions will help you decide what kind of puppy to get and how to prepare. You should also read our New Arrival section to get a sense of what you will need to do to bring a puppy into your life.

Why do you want a puppy?
Answering this question can help you decide if you are really ready for a puppy and what types of puppy to look for.

• A companion should like to do the same things you do. Don't get a toy breed if you want to go jogging.
• A playmate for the kids should be calm and not prone to aggressiveness.
• A guard dog needs to be loyal, easily trained and able to protect your home.
• A show dog will need to come with a pedigree.

Don't get a puppy just because it's "cute." This puppy will need to be a member of the family and will need to have a place in your home.

Do you have enough room for a puppy?
Even large dogs can live in apartments if they get out for proper exercise. Make sure there are arrangements in place for your puppy to get to play and eliminate. Small dogs are usually better suited to smaller spaces. Also think about yourself and your family. Your puppy might be happy in a smallish space, but you might start to feel cramped.

Do you have enough time for a puppy?
You should be there for your puppy. Young puppies need to be fed and get outside several times a day. Either someone needs to be home or needs to go home over lunch to care for your puppy. And don't forget the daily walk.

Also, good training and socialization requires interaction. Plan to set aside at least one and preferably two 20-30 minute play and training sessions each day. If you need to, break them up into five or ten minute chunks. These periods can include a walk, training or play of all types.

Can you afford a puppy?
You're going to have to pay for food, veterinary visits, vaccinations, a crate, toys, leashes and many other supplies. (See our section on Preparing your Home.) While many of these things are one-time costs and caring for a puppy is within the means of almost all families, you will have to budget for food and vet care throughout a dog's life.

Are you ready for puppy ownership?
A puppy is a new family member. Young puppies will need to get up in the middle of the night. You will have to feed and care for them. While the rewards of puppy ownership are well worth the effort, make sure it fits your life and lifestyle.

Is your home ready for a puppy?
Puppies want to explore every corner of your house, and they want to put everything in their mouths.

• Secure all poisonous substances: household cleaners, laundry soaps, bleach, disinfectants, insecticides, cleaning fluid, fertilizer, mothballs and more.
• Get down on all fours and look around. Are there any dangling electical cords, loose nails, or other tempting objects?
• Know the house plants that can cause problems for your puppy. Tomato vines, for instance, can make him sick.

For more information on poison control and home preparation, read the Health pages in our New Arrival section.

What kind of puppy should you get?
If you have decided a puppy is a good fit for your life, congratulations! You are ready to embark on a wonderful experience. Now you have to decide what kind of puppy to get. Use the link on the left to go to Find the Right Breed, which will ask you questions about your life and your tastes and come back with a list of compatible breeds.