The first step is to do research on dog breeds if you aren’t certain what breed will be the best for you.  The American Kennel Club has information about each of the over 200 breeds that they recognize.  Each breed also has a Breed club that will provide you with information.   You will want to learn about the adult size of each breed you are considering as well as the activity level of each breed.  You will want to find out how much coat care is involved and if you will be able to do it or must have your dog professionally groomed. 

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When you contact a breeder there are questions you should ask.  Some of them are:  Have the parents been health tested?   Have the puppies been vaccinated?  How are the puppies being socialized?  What kind of temperament can you expect?  When can I come see the puppies and their parents?  At what age  will you be able to take your puppy home?  Will the breeder be available if you have behavior or health questions? 

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Responsible breeders are proud of their dogs and will want to share their accomplishments.  They will encourage you to come see them and their dogs and will urge you to bring your family.  They will want to show you the parents of their puppies.  They will offer you information on the health issues of the breed and what they do to reduce the possibility of their puppies having health problems.   They will ask you questions about your home and your activities so that they may choose a puppy  that fits your lifestyle.  They will expect you to sign a contract with expectations clearly stated in regard to the puppy’s care and future, including that the puppy may be returned to the breeder if for any reason you can no longer keep him.  They may not have puppies available when you contact them but will add you to their list for future litters. 

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If you have a positive response to your questions and you believe that the breeder is truly interested in the welfare of each of their puppies, then you should be able to trust them to provide you with a new family member.