I'm in the middle of watching Cesar Millan's videos about dogs/dog training/anything you ever wanted to know about dogs. If you're considering adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue group, or purchasing a dog from a breeder, you should REALLY watch his videos and/or read his material BEFORE proceeding with it. I don't even own a dog and I've learned so much about what it takes to have one (or a whole pack). I now know that I just don't have what it takes to be a responsible dog owner.
First, people make the mistake of seeing a dog as a "name/personality" first. Instead, the order should be: animal, species, breed, and then name/personality.
For everyone talking about "big" or "small" dogs, Cesar says that it's all about the dog's energy instead. Here is an article about it:
http://www.cesarsway.com/tips/yournewdog/finding-a-dog-with-the-right-energy
Basically there are four types of dog energies: low, medium, high, and very high. The most important step is to identify what your own energy levels are. If you make a mistake and wind up with a dog that has a higher energy level than you, that dog will probably become dominant over you and you'll have an incredibly difficult time becoming THEIR pack leader.
I also hope you understand that even if you have the world's biggest backyard, a dog SHOULD get a 45 minute walk per day AT LEAST (twice a day would be ideal). I know many owners just take their dog out to use the bathroom and then lock them up for the day, but this usually results in a "frustrated" dog that ends up barking, growling, destroying things, etc. I can only assume that a medical student, resident, and physician's schedule will be incredibly busy, and I would question whether you could sincerely commit to walking your dog as recommended. Heck, the OB/GYN I scribed for had to hire someone just to walk her dog twice a dog because of her daytime office schedule and nighttime call schedule.
If you do end up going to look for a dog in person, please remember the following: avoid eye contact (basically ignore all the dogs as you pass through), don't have any food in your pockets (dogs explore first and foremost by smell, so you want the dogs to only smell you), and maintain a CALM AND ASSERTIVE disposition. Walk around the compound without stopping, see which dogs follow you, which are curious (a healthy behavior for puppies). See which dogs are calm, which are nervous, excited, etc. Try to observe a feeding session; a well-behaved dog will circle around the pack and not try to wrestle against other dogs to get to the food. Also try to ask questions about the dog's history (if known). Don't take the dog home without it being spayed/neutered and having all its vaccinations up to date. Try to observe the dog being groomed. Have PATIENCE; remember that it might take many visits to find the right dog for you. If you do decide on a dog, DO NOT take them the home in your car right away!! IMMEDIATELY take the dog for a walk, so they know you're their pack leader now.
Regardless, please do your research. Good luck
🙂
