Thinking about adopting adog...

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... 2 1/2 years old, sweet little thing. quite small. Housetrained etc already, isn't neglected/abused, she could just do with a bit more fuss than they can giver her (I feel) :)

What do I need to know? Never had a dog before.

Is it through an agency? They dont need to be abused to have issues so I'd make sure you know what she's like outside as well as inside. How is she when left at home alone? Do you have kids or any other pets and how will she be with these? You also need to think about insurance/veg bills. Crates are useful if they have any destructive impulses while you are out. Better to go for a good quality food as the cheap stuff can make them a bit nuts ime. You also have to think what you will do of you want to go on holiday without them,
My dogs have improved my life but they do take some work so you need to be up for this.

Vet bills not veg bills!

It's from a friend's mother's house.

Why do they want to rehome this dog? Do you trust the old owner or could the dog have more problems than they are willing to disclose?

Having a dog does change your lifestyle. You need to be around for most of the day or arrange a dog walker. You need to commit to varied, long walks in all weathers. You need to think about arrangements for when you go on holiday. Dogs can make a house a lot dirtier, e.g. all dogs will have toileting accidents, they may vomit when sick, most breeds shed hair and all dogs trail in mud. All dogs need time spent on their training and you have to be prepared for the possibility that a dog come with or will develop a problem that needs more concerned effort and professional help to resolve. You need to think about liability insurance, vets fees insurance and every day costs like food, worming, flea treatment, etc.

Booboostoo has said it all really. The other side of it is they're wonderful and will be your best friend.

You need to find a good vet and register. Even better their original vet, who will know any history. They will advise you on flea and worm treatments until you get going. At the very least you need third party insurance, you can add on cover for vets bills too if you like.

In the meantime spend as much time as possible with the dog. Go on walks with the owner, see how it reacts with other dogs and people etc., see how it behaves, if it comes back when called etc.