i think it will..i do recomend a no-kill shelter to start off in. IF i had to walk into an overloaded shelter like the raytown animal control that does all of kansas city..id cry myself to sleep everynight. Here tho the way side waifs are picking up EACH WEEK animals that would otherwise be euthanized and taking them to their shelter (this is such a huge big deal) and working with them, giving them a second chance. That would be the perfect place for you..you will learn how to care for, house break, and basic obedience as well as how to socialize from the pros..then you will know when your time is right. i talked with my friend Kelly (one person whom's perspective i respect completely) and her daughter is her age. I asked her if i was wrong..that a pitbull rescue would be too much..and we debated the point back and forth for awhile..she said that pitbulls are like labradors in their willingness to want to please..(something a lot of breeds are not) and can make a marvelous dog..which i agree..but a rescue could be a dog that has been chained, scared, already has the scars of being left to a shelter...and could whip you right off your feet the first time you put one on a leash..there are some benefits to being an expereinced handler for such beginnings or even about a hundred lbs heavier then her daughter...she finally said no..tho Gil is a great girl, and well behaved, knows dogs (they have 4) very well, she didn't believe that physically she would be ready for such a powerhouse. plus you have an advantage here that a lot of people will never get. If your parents were willing to get you a harrier hound..then your happiness must be of some importance to them..and as i pmed u..they have raised an extrodinary (sp?) young man. If they are willing to get you the pup of your choice..and know that you will background check the breeder..are obviously not impulsive..(always a good dog owner sign) then you should take avantage of getting a great pup. I didn't want to say this before..becuase a lot of beagle people are about to slam me i am sure, but they are a very stubborn breed..i have always advised for a first dog that you look at breeds that are easy to train..have a strong desire to please..are breed for intelligence as well as looks and manners..that makes your learning just that much easier. Hunting dogs are unique..they have a strong drive. Victor is a prime example..and the first two months i thought he was going to be the end of me ..i was exhausted. My mom said are you sure you are up to this..for pity sake i lost 10 lbs walking alone..they call his breed the fararri (sp? again) of the pointers...no kidding..my heart just swells with pride tho that i can take him to the dog park, take off the leash and he can outrun..with a beauty that turns EVERYONE'S heads..as he races thru the brush..leaps 5 feet in the air after dragon flies..and yet i can put him on a leash..hold it with the end of my pinky as we walk down the street..a slight tap on the leash and he goes straight to sit until i say heel..you have the time now before you start working and driving and all to learn something very special about life (no better teacher then your dog) and how to support, educate, someone besides yourself, and yourself at the same time. you could go to training classes..they have them at community centers as well as places like pet smart..it doens't take long, a few short lessons each day..before school, after school, 10 15 minutes a time. I hate to see you lose this opportunity..what ever you decide..i will respect your decision and i won't bring this up anymore..but to have a dog to grow up with is priceless..i got my CHarlie when i was your age...i wouldn't trade his being in my life for all the dollars in the world, and i mean that. He has had a large part in raising me while i raised him.