We’ve talked a lot about the specifics of adopting dogs previously, so if you’re looking for some specific advice, please search it on our blog or send us another ask!
In general, my advice is just to be honest with yourself about what you want and are willing to do for a dog. I really, really love hounds, but they aren’t suitable for my lifestyle. It would be really unfair of me to get a hound and expect it to hang out quietly all day while I work and then still be fairly chill in the evenings with only a little bit of exercise or training during the week.
All breeds have specific characteristics, so read up on those and decide what traits are deal-breakers, which are less desirable, and which you absolutely want. Here’s an example of what I might want in a future dog:
It’s a very honest list. There’s a column for traits my breed should have before I consider them, a column of traits I can compromise on, and a column of traits I absolutely do not want. These traits are based on my lifestyle, the activities I want to do with the dog, and my experience with dog training.
As long as you’re honest with yourself and the shelter or breeder you end up going with, I think you’ll be okay. Good luck and make sure to send us pictures when you do get a dog! -C