With thousands of animal-rescue organizations and professional breeders across the country, choosing a canine companion can be trickier than trying to settle on a pair of “going out” jeans. We’ve spoken to experts and compiled tips to help you make the best of your bow-wow browsing experience.

How Can I Find the Best Rescue Shelter?

With so many options, it’s important to know which shelters are legit. “A good shelter will conduct a thorough interview with you as a potential owner to ensure that they can help you make a wise choice for your family,” advises professional dog trainer and pet expert Andrea Arden. You should also expect support with training and veterinary care. Beth J. Bates, president and founder of GoodDogz.org and contributor to WEtv.com, also cautions against organizations that don’t ask for an adoption fee. “The fees are used to care for animals in the shelter’s custody,” she says. “Free animals have likely not been cared for properly.”

What Makes a Good Breeder?

“A good breeder wants their pups to remain in one loving home for their entire lifetime,” asserts Arden. “They should be willing to offer advice and support as long as you have the puppy.” Once you feel a breeder is qualified, look at his or her pups. “The puppy should be excited to meet you,” explains Bates. “Puppies that shy away from visitors should be a red flag.” And don’t cheat by stuffing your pockets with beef jerky.

Know the Facts

“About 25 to 30 percent of the country’s homeless pet population is purebred,” clarifies Bates. So your chances of finding a full-blooded golden retriever at your local rescue shelter may be better than you think. And don’t get discouraged if you don’t find your slobbery soul mate during your first visit. “Rescues and shelters take in new dogs every day,” Bates adds. “So check back often. Websites like petfinder.com also allow you to browse selections of homeless animals across the country.”

Ask the Right Questions

“Make a specific list of exactly what type of dog you want, considering temperament and activity level over looks,” Arden suggests. “Also, keep in mind that adopting an adult or adolescent dog is advantageous, because you know its temperament more clearly than with a puppy.”

Questions to Ask When Selecting a Breeder

How many litters do you breed each year?

The fewer the better, as a good breeder should carefully select breeding stock, rather than breeding five litters to try to get one or two show puppies.

Are you a member in good standing of any breed clubs?

Try searching the United Kennel Club (ukcdogs.com) and the American Kennel Club (akc.org) Websites.

Can you recommend any other breeders?

If they don’t have what you’re looking for, a reputable breeder should gladly refer you to another breeder. You can also check breedersusa.com for a list of breeders around the country.

Questions to Ask at a Rescue Facility

Can I tour the shelter?

Observe the cleanliness of the location and the general disposition of the animals. Beware of animals that seem jumpy or scared, which may be a sign of mistreatment.

What happens if I can’t take care of the animal?

The shelter should absolutely and immediately take the animal back. In fact, ask that such a condition be written into the adoption contract.

Pass on Pet Stores!

Both breeders and rescue facilities are viable options for adopting a dog, because they provide a genuine service rooted in the best interest of the animal. Pet stores, however, largely contribute to the presence of “puppy mills”—facilities that breed mass quantities of dogs for sale, with little to no regard for their well-being.