Many dogs have been surrendered to animal shelters because their old families didn t have the time to take care of them or the leisure to pay them some attention. Dogs need ample attention during their first few weeks of stay at your home. So if you don t think you can give a dog that, it is best that you delay your decision for a time. Small dogs are likely to be abused when kids are around because more often than not, kids treat their dogs like they would their toys. Very huge dogs, on the other hand, are a big no-no for small kids. Children could be hurt around powerful, muscular, and oversized dogs. Also check into the policies of the neighborhood you are living in. Adopting A Dog Taking The Dog Out The First Time Taking your dog out for a walk is not always the ideal, leisurely, and enjoyable experience it has often been cracked up to be. Dog personalities differ, as much as moods and temperaments differ. Temperaments are even more pronounced with active and athletic dog breeds. Ask yourself questions about whether you are ready to commit yourself to a particular dog. If you have doubts, even the slightest one, you should delay you decision. It is never a good idea to rely a lifetime commitment on a spur-of-the-moment decision. Remember your game plan and stick with it. Prior to going to the animal shelter, you have thought about the dog's breed, dog's size, the dog's temperament, in fact even the color of the dog's fur. There are many, however, who don t have a particular idea of what dog to adopt. As guide, there should be at least three characteristics that you should look for in a dog. First, are the things that you want in the dog you are to adopt. Second, are the things that you want but can definitely live without. Herding dogs generally are intelligent animals. Their ability to follow commands is renowned all over the world. Herding dogs makes good family pets. However, they are most happy when they are used as workers. That is the purpose of their breeding and they are seldom happy when inactive. Herding dogs are very lively and strong and need a lot of exercise and activity.