Great list of questions to ask when looking at adopting a new dog. Some of the questions apply mostly to adult dogs (training issues, etc.) but definately worth investigating before you take Fido home.

Where did the dog come from? Breeders? A puppy mill? A shelter?< p>

Medical issues? She recommends OFA certification. Vaccines up to date?

House trained? Crate trained? (Even if you're not going to use a crate, it helps for when you need to transport the dog somewhere like the vet)

Obedience trained? What are the commands?

What does it eat? If there's a special diet is it owner preference or a medical issue? (This also will help your dog settle in since it's accustomed to XYZ brand of dog food or raw meat or whatever, then you can slowly switch it out to whatever you use)

Does it get along with dogs? Cats? Small children? (I would really recommend having your animals meet the new dog before committing. If they hate each other life is going to be miserable for everybody involved)

The article's definately worth a read. There are more questions and extended explanation of things to look for in your new dog. Obviously,  what's a "dealbreaker" for you is going to be different than for someone else. You may not care if the dog gets along with cats,  unless you have a cat. You might want a guard dog, or a dog that doesn't bark ever. But knowing these things ahead of time can save a lot of heartache for you, and your new dog.