Choosing the right dog for you and your lifestyle is important for both of you. Do you choose a puppy or an adult? Pedigree or crossbreed? A dog may well be a part of your life for ten years or more, so it's best to do your homework and consider the options.

Pedigree or mixed breed?

There are more than 200 breeds recognised in the UK alone, plus all those adorable crossbreeds and mixed breeds in infinite variety. The development of dog breeds for specific purposes has led to more variations than most other species - just look at the gigantic Great Dane beside the tiny Chihuahua.

The major advantage of choosing a pedigree (pure breed) is predictability. You can be fairly certain that you will get predetermined size, coat length and texture, character (although this can vary with life experiences too), energy level and susceptibility to illness.

To a lesser extent, crossbreeds (parents from two different pure breeds) are sometimes predictable too, but you can't be sure which breed, if any, might forge your pet’s basic character. For example, a Border Collie-Labrador cross could be laid back, brimming with energy, or neither!

Mixed breeds (otherwise known as mongrels) come from a largely non-pedigree background. Sometimes you can see a few hints as to the parentage; with others it's impossible to guess. Some people consider this an advantage as they want to own a dog that is a one of a kind. Genetically mixed breeds are often healthier, since they usually have a larger gene pool and fewer hereditary problems.

Puppy or adult?

Most people find puppies irresistible, but they may not be the ideal choice for everyone. Adopting a homeless 'teenage' or adult dog may be a good alternative, although comes with it’s own challenges.

Puppies are adorable and you can ensure your puppy is raised in a loving and kind home. You can also train puppies to focus on what is important to you. However, they are very time-consuming in the early days, with frequent trips outside for toilet training and constant vigilance to ensure your favourite possessions don't end up as chew toys. Obedience training and socialisation are also important at this early age.

Homeless adult dogs can make exceptional pets and will often arrive with a good deal of training and socialisation. However, it is important to consider that adult dogs can often come with 'emotional baggage' and time and patience may be required to overcome timidity, a lack of social skills or other behavioural difficulties. House training an adult dog can be very challenging and some rescue dogs have an unknown history.

Dog or bitch?

There's a lot of difference of opinion when it comes to the battle of the sexes. Some swear that bitches are easier to train and tend to be more loving. Others argue that females are more independent and aloof. Males are often said to be more assertive, but neutering can make them a little easier if they start out a bit too bold and over-confident, although this varies with the age of neutering and between individuals.

Un-neutered dogs of both sexes can always present problems. Males can wander off in search of females in season. Females may have phantom pregnancies and can be difficult to manage during their season, and of course if they become pregnant there may be difficulties during pregnancy, labour and in homing the puppies. The cost of neutering a female is greater than for neutering a male, and greater still if she is already pregnant. It's best to be guided by the breeder or other sources of expertise, such as a vet, behaviourist or trainer, as to whether a male or female is best for you and your lifestyle.

Breeder or re-homing organisations?

If your heart is set on a pedigree or cross-bred puppy then a reputable breeder is your best bet. Contact The Kennel Club or a breed-club secretary who may have a list of litters available, or can put you in contact with breeders in your area. Try to choose a breeder who is part of the Kennel Club’s accredited breeder scheme.

Taking on a dog from an animal shelter/rescue centre or larger welfare organisation can be incredibly rewarding. There are thousands and thousands of dogs waiting for a second chance in life as a pet, often having lost a home with their first owners through no fault of their own. Reputable centres carefully assess the dogs they take in and will help match the best canine personality to you, your family and your lifestyle.

Not surprisingly, puppies for re-homing tend to be in short supply. You may have to take your time contacting several shelters/rescue centres and might have to travel further a field. Consider contacting the larger organisations such as Dogs Trust, The Blue Cross, Battersea Dogs Home, RSPCA, Scottish SPCA or Dublin SPCA.