The decision to get a dog maybe a decision the whole family makes. Or a single person may suddenly stop in front of a pet store and fall in love with the adorable face of a puppy in the window. Dogs can be companions, friends or protection from burglars. Before making the choice of what breed of dog you want take several things into consideration.

FAMILY SIZE. How many people are in your household? Will there be enough room for a big dog? How old are your children? Are these children living in the same house?

If your kids are fairly young, choose a smaller dog that is rugged and can stand the punishment of a child. It may not be a good idea to get a large dog that may be so rough on your children that you have to worry about their safety when the dog is around. Neither do you want to be concerned with your playful toddler hurting a Miniature Poodle. Try a Cocker Spaniel

BUDGET. How much disposable cash do you have after your bills are paid? How much can you afford to pay for dog food consistently month to month? How much have you got in your savings in case the dog has to go to the vet? How much do you have saved for regular medical checkups?

Dogs can cost you as much money as your children. Budget for the expenses of having a dog the same way you would plan a new arrival from the maternity ward of a hospital. If your budget is small and you require low maintenance, consider a Jack Russell Terrier to spend less on food. If your budget can handle lavishly pampering your dog, maybe a Toy Poodle is your ideal dog. Budgets not an issue? Go ahead and splurge on an Akita or St. Bernard.

LIVING SPACE. Do you have a large yard that a happy dog can lose his mind running around in? Are you in an apartment with neighbors who bang on the walls if your television is too loud?

Pet friendly apartments often charge extra to your rent based on the size of the dog. If youve discovered your budget for a new pet is minimal you need a smaller dog. A pug may be your choice. They are too small to make noise if they run around the house, they rarely bark and theyll keep your extra rental costs down.

PURPOSE. Are you looking for a friend in your dog? Do you need your dog to help you around because of a disability? Do you want your dog to deter burglars?

Your desire for a dog influences your choice of dog breed significantly. Labradors make great friends. They are loyal, playful and quite intelligent. Dobermans are statuesque and always look like they are ready to attack. A pair of Dobermans is the perfect deterrent for criminals. The German Shepherds are the universal choice for help because they are so easily trained.

Whatever choice you make in selecting a friend, companion or protector, review all your options carefully. There are many resource sites online that will explain what to expect from various breeds.