A guaranteed smile-maker greets me every time I come home. All legs and wagging tail, my 4-month-old golden retriever, Maya, lifts my spirits no matter what kind of day I've had. Having a pet brings numerous rewards, but finding the right puppy is key.

Canine Connection
For first-time dog owners, picking the right pooch for the family requires a little bit of work. If you want to go the way of a purebred, do preliminary research to find a match suitable for your home and lifestyle. Check with your local library, or do research online (www.akc.org and www.canismajor.com are good places to start).

Also, ask the experts: veterinarians. They know firsthand the general qualities of different breeds. Talk with friends and coworkers to get their perspectives on canine companions as well.

The Perfect Pup
Next, determine what you are looking for in a pet. Do you want big or small, short- or long-haired? Think of where you live. Some animals thrive only where they can be very active, while others require little room to be satisfied and happy. If you have children, you need to consider which breeds are compatible with them.