I just want to weigh in on the side of shelter/rescue dogs - lets not forget there are still FOUR MILLION unwanted pets being killed every year because there are no homes for them. Unacceptable. I could never buy a dog or cat while there are so many waiting for homes.
Also, please take into consideration the temperament of the dog and not just the way it looks. So many people fall in love with a certain "look" and forget there is a personality behind it.