One of the first things you need to assess is what kind of time you have for feeding, walking, bathing, playing, grooming, training and cleaning up after the dog you choose.  Of course choosing a dog who is full grown rather than a new puppy will require a different time commitment and so will different breeds.  Keep in mind of course that all dogs will require some time and attention.  When choosing a dog, the largest time commitment will be with a puppy, no matter the breed.  And when I say "puppy" what I am talking about is anywhere from one (1) to two (2) years.

I suggest strongly that if this is your first dog you consider getting an adult dog - rescue a dog that needs a home.  If you have your heart set on a certain breed, check out the rescue groups for that breed.  I also can't emphasis enough how wonderful dogs are that you bring home from the SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) or your city Pound.  I have several "rescue" dogs and they are the best -- smart , loving, funny and they have been a great addition to my large family.

Don't be fooled into thinking choosing a dog for the kids (who promise, cross their hearts, to provide all the care) will lessen your time commitment.  In my years of experience, (4+ kids and too many animals to count) it’s usually Mom and Dad, who spends a lot of time and energy caring for the dog.  Even if that means arguing with the kids to honor the promises made before choosing a dog.

Whatever type of dog you choose, you will need to spend time getting him properly trained and socialized to living with humans.   Right from the beginning of bringing him home.   Just start with teaching him to sit and stay.  Training will make the difference between a dog who understands the meaning of being part of a family and one who ends up in a shelter because of behaviors his human family couldn't live with. 

When choosing a dog, the level of exercise he needs, your lifestyle, your family’s level of physical activity and your living situation is important. Some dogs (sporting breeds for example) can require more than an hour of serious exercise daily.  This can mean time in the morning, and at least an hour in the evening. Activities like obstacle course training or other "work" may be the only way to keep a really intelligent activity seeking dog exercised enough to avoid problems.  Many behavioral problems are caused by a bored dog who doesn't get enough exercise.

You need to understand that although you don't need to be wealthy, you will need to spend money, to provide proper nutrition, routine and emergency veterinary care, proper supervision and shelter no matter what dog you choose. Taking care in choosing a dog is also important because some breeds have more possible health issues than others.  Size, as silly as it sounds, is also something to keep in mind when choosing a dog, for more than the space they will take up.  A large dog will consume more food and all his toys and equipment can be more expensive.   A sweater for a Great Dane will be more expensive than one for a Chihuahua.