You've decided to get a puppy. Does your family want a mixed breed or a purebred? Some veterinarians and dog trainers will tell you that mixed breeds are the best dogs, that their larger gene pool makes them healthier with a milder temperament. Just as many animal-care specialists believe that, in practice, this does not hold true.

Although perfect family dogs can be found among mixed breeds at shelters, you usually get no background information and, therefore, have no way of knowing what kind of dog you are getting. A puppy that looks like a terrier cross could grow into an 80-pound setter mix.

Rescuing a puppy from a shelter is the best way to get a dog only if your family has had experience working with dogs and is committed to raising whatever dog your puppy becomes. Most families will be better off with a carefully selected purebred.

With a little research, luck and the help of a good breeder, you can choose a purebred dog thats genetically right for your family.