What advice would you give to a new dog owner?

My first piece would probably be to tell them to make sure they prepare before they get the dog! Grooming equipment, food bowls, bedding, first aid, a couple of bags of treats, food if possible, etc..

Mine would be to research, research, research! Health, good breeding, temperament. Is the breed in general one that suits the person's lifestyle?

Actually yeah, that's a good piece of advice. Too many people jump into it without research, in my opinion!

  

Mine would be don't stress if your dog isn't perfect, don't compare them to everyone else, you will only depress yourself!

 I think it's one of the worst things you can do.