im getting a dog.. educate me about them

[beenKOed]

If you are thinking about getting a dog on a whim, forget it man, you and the dog will wind up miserable.
Dogs take a lot of time and money, you need a vet, you need a place with a yard (dogs live through their noses), you have to train them if you want to have company over or take them out to visit or for a walk.
The biggest problem is time, it's like having a child. Dogs are social animals, as much or more than humans. If you don't give them the time they need they can be destructive (digging holes, chewing up plants and scratching doors) and annoying (barking, barking and barking).
If you have a big yard, two dogs are better as they can play together, plus you won't feel so guilty when life happens and you can't give them the time they deserve.
Don't forget about the expense of food, toys, a warm place to sleep at night and the all important poop scupper.
If it sounds like I'm trying to talk you out of getting a dog, I am. It's a big responsibility that pays off with big rewards. If you work at home or are retired, life can be sweet for you and the dog.
One other thing, after you get the dog you want and do everything right, you'll set down one day and realize that you have only spent a fraction of the time you should have with your dog for that week. So if you are willing to think bad thoughts about yourself once in a while go ahead and get that dog, it's great to have a buddy around all the time.
I've had dogs for years so I forgot to mention something basic for a new or relative new owner, a book about preparing yourself and your home for a dog.