If you have a large house, ample yard and plenty of hours to spare, a larger breed might fit well into your lifestyle. While smaller dogs generally cost less — food and medications administered by body weight are less expensive, for example — they don't always require less exercise. The huge Great Dane, for instance, needs relatively low-key exercise, while the high-energy miniature pinscher needs a rigorous workout. Nor is size a valid indication of a dog's temperament. The biggest of all breeds, the Irish wolfhound, is a quiet and gentle giant, while small terriers can be surprisingly aggressive and vocal.

Make sure that you choose a dog that fits into your life, whether you want a hardy, active playmate or a delicate lapdog.

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