Different breeds will have certain characteristics for which they were bred. Ask breeders at dog shows and look them up in breed books for further information. You must consider several things before deciding on a dog:

How much training can you do? Regardless of the dog you get, training will make your dog much more compatible with you and what you want to do. A trained dog can go to more places with you without disruption, and can be more easily a part of your life.

How much grooming can you do? How much hair are you prepared to have in your home? You should give serious consideration to these factors: some dogs shed little and require no grooming (clipping, stripping, etc); others shed little but require more grooming; others shed but do not require grooming; and still others both shed and require grooming.

Do note that just about all dogs will require some nail clipping regardless of conditions. If you get a dog that requires regular grooming, are you prepared to pay for its grooming or learn to do it yourself and to do either regularly?

Some questions to ask yourself: What sort of exercise do I want to do with the dog? Walking? Jogging? Do I want a dog that is bouncy and ready to go, or more relaxed? Am I prepared for a dog with some protective tendencies? How about a dog with possible dog-aggression (because of its background or breed)? Do I want an indiscriminately friendly dog or one that is more reserved?

Mixed Breed or Pedigree? While you can enjoy showing a dog with a good pedigree, in the show circuit, mixed breeds make equally loveable companions and are in-fact said to have more resistance to infections and they are freely available for adoption.