Considering getting a puppy

[Flynnster]

A lifetime dog owner I would totally suggest starting out with a non-puppy. They are so much work it's crazy. Plus you save quite a bit of money going for an adult dog.

One thing I would think about most is activity level. Some breeds/mixes need a ton of exercise, others don't. Particularly larger breeds can get away with only a nice long walk a day and lounge around the rest of it.