One thing you might want to do, though, is praise the pup for the first poop produced on a walk… We seem to have inadvertently trained ours to produce one praise-worthy nugget every block or two…
Gazelle has very good advice.
I want to add:
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If you plan on getting a toy-size dog, puppy pads or doggie litter is the secod option to crate training (yes they sell doggie litter, but it takes training also 'cause dog’s aren’t like cats and they don’t immediately go to the litter). You don’t ever have to take your dog for a walk (except to exercise him), but you do have to keep the pad/litter clean and that costs money. I know people who have the litter/pads in the bathroom or a room not used much.
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For first timers, go to the dog park and talk to the handlers. Don’t be shy, 'cause strangers talk to strangers there and it’s not unusual to strike up conversation about dog-training out-of-the-blue. Just say something like, “What’s your dog’s name? He’s got great energy. I’m thinking about getting the same breed. What are they like? How did you house break him?” Click here for a list of dog parks in your area.
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Do your research. Read books, websites or magazines specializing on your breed of dog. If you choose to get a mix breed like mine, read one that’s similar to your dog.
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Don’t EVER hit your dog, or even yell at her harshly. A firm, “No!” will suffice. If your dog begins to fear you in any way, she may become very hard to train. That means, she may submissively wet herself when she sees you. She won’t come when called. Will only sit or lay down after you’ve yelled at her to do so. She’ll hide her “business” in the house.
Lack of correct potty training is the #1 reason dogs are abandoned to shelters. If you decide having a dog is not for you, make sure it’s a no-kill shelter. I don’t know about your local animal shelter, but my county shelter will kill all pit-bull types, most chows, almost all rottweilers, or any dog with a reputation to bite.
Good luck.