(NAPS)—Shelters across the country are home to many wonderful dogs that are just waiting for someone to adopt and love them. A few tips from the experts can make it easier to find the right dog for your home.

First and foremost, make sure that the type of dog you get will fit your lifestyle, says Mathilde de Cagny, head trainer of Birds and Animals Unlimited and trainer of the Jack Russell terrier in the family film “Hotel for Dogs.” If you are very active and spend a lot of time outdoors, then a terrier or a hunting dog might be a good match. But if you lead a more sedentary lifestyle, live in an apartment or have a small yard, then you should choose accordingly. The best way to determine this is by getting a book about the different types of breeds before you go to the shelter to see what they were originally bred for.
When you meet a dog from the shelter, look for a dog that is outgoing with his tail wagging.

Once you get home, keep your new dog on a leash by your side and do not let him roam the house by himself. The reason behind this is so he doesn’t take over your house and your life. It will also give you a chance to see if your dog is house-trained or not. Within a day or so, make sure that your dog has some alone time by leaving him in the backyard or in a crate. Leave for 10 or 15 minutes at a time.

Go outside your house and listen—when you come back, don’t make a big deal about being reunited. Be matter of fact; this is how to avoid dogs that develop separation anxieties.