@conan1911:
Thank you everybody for the warm welcome. I am not opposed to a rescue its just that I have three young boys and feel that the dog would adjust better if it was a puppy to start. Do you think I am correct about this? I am just concerned that with a rescue I may not fully know its history.
I generally always recommend rescue to people who are very particular of how the dog needs to behave (such as with kids, other pets etc) because if you rescue an Adult dog, you will know what their temperment is and how they get along with other creatures. A reputable rescue will take a few months to learn the dog and their behaviour and work to find the best suitable home possible. Puppies are really cute but a lot of work (like having another kid!) and although exposure and socialization at a young age is important to their development, it does not guarentee their adult temperment.
Good luck in your search, Ive also just started my search!