A new dog in our family

Now is just as good as anytime to get a dog. Just make sure that you reseach the type of dog you are considering. Make sure you choose a dog that is not too fragile to have around a small child as the child will want to lay on and play with the dog. It is possible to care for a dog and hold down a full time job; make sure that when you get the dog you also get a crate to go with it as the dog will need a space of their own. Getting a puppy with a small child is always a good idea as they will be able to grow up together. Sometimes if you choose an older dog they will not adapt as well to a small child's play behavior. As for male/female I would go either way depending on what you find. Usually male dogs are a little harder to housebreak so this may need to be considered.