[Salamander]

And here are some good sites on that very subject.
[take special note of the last link...you’ll be surprised]

What your DOG is saying to YOU:

http://www.bestfriends.org/theanimals/pdfs/dogs/DogBodyLanguage.pdf

http://www.wagntrain.com/BodyLanguage2.htm

http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/kids-and-pets/caninebody_language.pdf

What YOU are saying to your DOG:

http://www.petplace.com/dogs/what-does-your-body-language-say-to-your-dog/page1.aspx

[Darnright]

Norway’s Turid Rugaas is the go-to person on interpretation of doggy body language:

http://www.dogwise.com/itemdetails.cfm?ID=DTB527

[cardboardcutout]

Good links but also bring us back to the human factor which is before you get a dog do your research. Find a dog that fits your life style. Examples :If your a couch potato you don't want a lab puppy or Jack Russell...if your a neat freak a weimaraner wont work for you....the have no jowls and when they drink water it goes every where.
Puppies should not leave their moms before 12 weeks and after that the new parents should socialize them. Introduce them to different people, animals,sounds and the car etc.
Dogs can learn 150 words so talk to them all the time. Teach them things....if you don't know how read a book.There are some great books that will help...then you end up wiht a happy, well adjusted and well behaved dog. Stop blaming the dog !!! Any breed can bite....but if you get a breed that has strong prey drive you should be prepared and responsible.