Introduction........................................... 4

Before You Buy Or Adopt a Dog....... 6

Choosing the Best Breed for You....................... 6

Why Do You Want a Dog?.................................. 6

Lifestyle and Activity Level.................................. 8

Family & Property................................................ 9

Budgetary Concerns.......................................... 10

Male vs. Female................................................. 11

Purebred vs. Crossbred.................................... 12

Mongrels and Mutts........................................... 13

A Very Limited Catalogue of Breeds............... 14

Up to 20 pounds....................................... 14

Up to 40 pounds....................................... 17

Up to 70 pounds....................................... 18

Over 70 pounds....................................... 20

Buying a Dog.......................................... 21

Pet Store............................................................ 21

Breeder.............................................................. 22

Adoption/Rescue Operations........................... 23

Health Concerns................................................ 24

Home at Last ........................................ 27

Accommodations............................................... 27

Training............................................................... 29

Punishment vs. Rewards................................... 31

Adjustment Period............................................. 33

Making Time for Bowser................................... 34

Caring for Your Companion............. 35

Feeding.............................................................. 35

Things Menial and Messy.................................. 37

Health and Fitness............................................. 38

A Canine VIP: Your Veterinarian....................... 41

Dog Choice Checklist........................ 44

Dog Supplies Checklist..................... 46