So, you've decided to get a puppy

You've been talking about getting a dog for months. Your neighbor stops by to tell you that she has a big litter of 10-week-old puppies that need homes, just in case you're interested in one.

Since it's going to be your first dog, you've decided on a puppy. There's really nothing quite as endearing as a puppy. They're cute, cuddly and full of affection and the gaze from a pup's big round eyes can melt anyone's heart.

Bringing a new puppy into your home will also be a major lifestyle adjustment. Are you prepared?

Before you run down to the neighbor's house to take a look at those charming little fur balls, ponder a couple of pertinent questions first.

Do you have the time to dedicate to raising and training a puppy, and can you afford to take care of him?

You'll need to spend loads of time with baby Fido, because he requires constant supervision during his first months of life. If you had kids, you might remember the potty training sessions; it took patience and perseverance. Your pup will need the same. You've decided that the timing is right and adding a puppy would fit your lifestyle. You're ready for all the fun and challenging times that baby Fido will bring into your life.

Before you bring home your cute little furball, you need to puppy-proof your home. This process is similar to toddler-proofing a home. Get yourself down to his level and look around. Electrical cords, potential toxins, and breakable items should be placed out of reach. Remember your puppy can jump, climb, chew and scratch at things. Use child-safe latches for keeping poisons and other items out of reach. Although some pups are curious and determined enough to break the latches, so you may have to use metal hardware. Proper puppy-proofing not only keeps him safe, it also gives you peace of mind.

Before looking at a litter of puppies, remember you can't judge a puppy solely by its breed or looks. Don't let sudden infatuation make the decision for you. Consider whether you want a male or female. Often females are smaller in size, more submissive and less dominant. Males tend to be a little bit more independent. Take a good look at him for signs of physical problems, for instance; check that his eyes and nose are clear and clean and that his coat looks shiny.

Evaluating a pup's personality is also important. There's a good chance that a bright friendly puppy will grow up to be a bright friendly dog. Remember, the puppy that's cowering in the corner might end up a timid dog.

After two hours at the neighbor's house with oodles of playful puppies, you come to a decision. His quick friendly manner and the way he made eye contact with his big baby browns pulled on your heart strings and you knew.

Remember, baby Fido will need certain items from the very start and some are essential for your pup's well-being, like the right puppy food. Most important items include a leash and collar with identification, food and water bowls and chew toys. You should get a doggie bed and, preferably, a crate or kennel. Some of these items can last as your new furry friend ages, but bear in mind that most of them will need to be replaced as he grows.

One of the first things you and your new puppy should do together is go to the vet for his first checkup.

You should begin house-training as soon as you bring your new furry companion home; it can help to get him on a routine. As a general rule, you should take your puppy to the designated "potty spot" immediately after eating or drinking. Accidents do happen, so be prepared, consistent and patient. Beyond housebreaking, there are many more things you will need to teach your puppy. Start by working on socialization and leash training.

The bond you have with your puppy begins the moment he comes into your life and never stops growing. You can nurture this bond though affection, training, grooming, playtime, exercise and participation in various activities.

Remember, there is no crystal ball to know which puppy will grow into the best adult dog. A puppy is shaped into an adult by how it is trained and raised.