Getting a dog is a big decision for a family. These are very important questions when considering getting a dog. If you do decide to get one, caring for it can be a very tricky job. Probably the first decision you should make is whether or not to get the dog fixed.
Unwanted breeding can be a bad thing.
Imagine finding your dog pregnant, and having to deal with 5 or 6 new puppies. Or if it's a male dog, picture the neighbors complaining about him getting their own pups pregnant. The entire situation can get extremely complicated, and most would agree that getting your dog fixed is a good idea. After that's out of the way, your next goal should be house training. If you get an older dog, already house-trained, it should only take a day or two for it to get adjusted to the new home.