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Most puppies are lovely, cuddly bundles of fluff with appealing eyes but before you choose one of these irresistible little puppies you should first take a good look at adult dogs of the same breed. This will give you a good idea of what you will need to be able to handle when your pup is fully grown.

Will you be able to handle a dog of that size and strength? Will you be able to afford to feed them? Do you have the time and energy to exercise and train them? If the breed has a long coat will you be willing to groom them everyday?

The next question to ask yourself is do I want a male or female dog? There are advantages and disadvantages associated with both sexes. In most cases the female is more manageable because of her smaller size and is easier to train than the more dominant male.

For people who want to breed, show or compete in working trials a male can work all year round while a female will be out of action for about 3 weeks every 6 months when she comes into season and longer when she is having puppies.

This brings us to the next question. For what purpose do you want a dog? If your dog is to be a pet or companion then it is important to choose a dog that suits your lifestyle. All pure bred and cross bred dogs can make good pets providing they have a sound temperament. They are all capable of learning basic training although some will not be able to progress past this.

If you want to compete in obedience, agility or working trials it is important to understand that some breeds are better suited than others to particular activities.

While all dogs have their individual characters and a lot will depend on how they are trained some breeds have qualities that are ideal in obedience and trials. German Shepherds, Border Collies, Labrador and Golden Retrievers, Dobermann Pinschers, Rottweilers, Great Danes and Boxers all excel in this area.

Terriers tend to be bold with an instinct to hund and kill small vermin, untrained they may also have a go at a stranger's ankles. Hounds tend to have their noses stuck to the ground and will chase anything that moves. The giant breeds like the St. Bernard, Newfoundland and Bull Mastiff are very strong and learn easily. Owners need to be sure about their own ability to train and control these dogs.

There are a group of dogs that are very independent and can make great companion dogs but in general are not as trainable as the working breeds. They include the Chow Chow, Borzoi, Shih Tzu, Pekingese and Lhasa Apso.

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