PUPPIES OR ADOPTION
So you decided to get a dog or puppy...where to start? If you like the idea of saving an animal from potential death you can check out a shelter. I suggest if you do that-get as much info as possible esp. from the volunteers walking the dogs or playing with them. They have the most information.
You don't have to start with a pup but keep in mind the strays (as opposed to owner drop offs) in the shelter have NO background, blank slate. Someone had issues with the dog and abandoned it. FOR A REASON. Be careful, make sure it's house trained and as with a puppy when home leash the dog to you and you'll know when it has to go out. See what the dog already can do, sit, down, stay, come.
Always give a command ONE WORD.ONE TIME then TREAT even if you need to push the pup/dog into a sit. Holding a treat up over the dogs head will often put him/her in a sit.

There are also breed rescues. If you want a Basset hound or Golden you can contact local rescues in your area. Type in your breed of choice "German Shepherd Rescue TN" and that should get you close. If not try a state close to you. Also the AKC website lists puppies for sale and adoptions. When "interviewing the dog" bring your own dog to meet, also feel all over for bumps, scars, anything that looks odd- look at teeth see if well cared for & guess the dogs age by plaque. If you want a puppy note how many times it gnaws on you/family~ puppy teeth are for hardcore puppy owners. Need a lot of chewable toys. No stuffing they'll eat it. Always supervise your dog in and out they should never be left to their own devices. Some escape artists will take off so say bye. That may be the reason for it being in a shelter.