Studies prove that veterinarians are the first people most pet owners turn to for help with a variety of problems, from health to behavior. Like your child's pediatrician, your dog's veterinarian can and should be an invaluable resource for you. The relationship will only work, though, if you trust and respect each other.

It might seem easy to find a competent and caring veterinarian with whom you can develop a great relationship around caring for your dog. The truth is, even when a veterinarian is recommended to you, if you don't feel comfortable around him, you may not seek or receive the proper care for your dog.

If you're bringing a puppy into your life, you will need to take her to a veterinarian within the first couple of days of her homecoming to get a thorough health exam and get you started on a course of routine care. It's nice to know from the very beginning that you have chosen someone you really like.

To find the veterinarian that's best for you and your dog, ask several dog-owning friends as well as your pup's breeder or other breeders near you for some recommendations. Make a point to visit the offices of all the recommendations. See how you're greeted when you come in. Take note of how crowded the waiting room is. Do the people working there seem to enjoy their jobs? If possible, ask to meet with the veterinarian. Without an appointment she may not have time, but with an appointment she may be on her best behavior. Also, if you get a bad feeling from the office, you may not want to bother to meet the doctor. If you find yourself in an office with a friendly staff surrounded by people who seem content to be there and you can see the veterinarian, let her know what you're doing and schedule your puppy's first visit.