C.J.
We got our "first baby" from the SPCA in Dallas (off of 30). Ours is a mixed breed (part Corgi, part German Shephard) and he's wonderful! what I like about the SPCA is that they had a checklist that came with our dog (he was about 3 when we got him). They let us know that he was housebroken, good with kids, other dogs, etc, etc. Of course, if a dog is not compatablie with children, etc., they will let you know in the checklist. Another idea, if you already have a breed in mind, is to look up rescues online by breed (ie German Shephard rescues, Lab rescues, etc.). They will typically also be able to tell you if the dog meets your criteria. As you can tell, I'm a fan of dog adoptions. Happy dog hunting!