If commitment, vet's bills, shit everywhere etc. is uppermost in you thinking as far as dog ownership goes you should give it some further thought. Also if you are only considering the benefits to yourself, I would question whether that is sufficient motivation. Being a dog owner is not unlike a long term relationship based on mutual love, trust and committment.

Having a dog is a committment, especially if you start off with a puppy, it will require much of your attention, patience and perseverence. The time you put into training at the puppy stage will pay back in spades as the dog matures. If you intend on doing the training yourself read as much as you can and inform yourself and remember there is no such thing as bad dogs only bad owners.

Good luck.