I'm going to law school next year and plan to get my own apartment. I want to get a dog, a small one since I will be living in a small apartment. I have physical problems, so a dog with low exercise needs (two or three fifteen minute walks a day plus some indoor play) would be good. I do not like the way a lot of small dogs are very yappy (my mother has a miniature Schnauzer and its constant yapping is a bit annoying). I do not mind grooming and have done daily brushing for a shedding chow mix (my mother's), but a long haired dog is not a need I have. I also know how to shave a dog whose hair does not shed. Short or long haired is good. I grew up with dogs and have experience with training and care, though mostly with bigger dogs.
2009-10-11T20:11:35Z
I already live alone (on campus, not in pet friendly housing) and I attend undergrad full time and participate in a number of activities. So, while there will be a move, my lifestyle will likely not have huge changes.
papaw2009-10-11T19:30:55Z
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Shih-Tsu, or Daschund, Poodles are also GREAT house dogs. If you don't mind the grooming that would be my suggestion. Just make sure you get it crate trained properly, whatever you get. It will make apartment sharing with your dog so much easier.
I suggest going to a rescue that has a foster care program. These dogs live in home with volunteer caretakers that train them in basic obedience and houstraining (at the very least). Because it will have already lived in a home environment, its personality will already be known so there won't be any big surprises when you adopt. I would suggest an adult dog, maybe a Pug mix or other mixed breed (you often get the best of many worlds with a mutt). Try searching petfinder.com for rescues with such programs in your area.
But I would advise getting into a pet friendly house situation and stable schedule before getting a companion. Law school demands a lot and you might be too tired from lectures and homework to satisfy all of your dogs needs.
You can always contact a rescue and explain your situation. I know some allow "weekend fosters," where people take one of their adoptable dogs into their home for the weekend while the dog is in boarding.
You are going to be away at lectures for long hours. You will also have a lot of course work and reading up. You will also be going to court to get experience etc.
Dogs cannot be left alone for long periods.
All dogs shed.
Dogs in apartments is not a good idea. They need to go out to pee and poo several times a day and during the night too, both in good and bad weather. When I say several, I mean every 2-3 hours. So if left alone you will be coming home to lots of mess.
I don't know any dog that does well 2 or 15 minute walks. No matter the size that is just not enough time to burn off energy.
When they go to the toilet, you are also responsible for picking up it's poo.
Number 1; you will 1st need to find an apartment that accepts pets! Many apartments these days do NOT allow dogs and can force you to get rid of it if you breach the rules.
Number 2; Apartment that do allow dogs often have very specific rules, dogs housetrainned, 12month old and will even tell you the weight limit has to be. Most will say under 25pounds.
Number 3; Stay away from the Terriers, and most pinschers and most hounds, as there very active.
Remember all pups regardless of breed are Hyperactive
Some breeds that are pretty lazy Chihuahua, Pugs, English Bulldog(Not small), French Bulldog, Affenpischer, Chinese Crested, Maltese, Shih Tzu, Bichon Frise.
I would look for a 2-5 y/o dog from a shelter or rescue. You'll be able to see the adult size , temperament and have a good idea of the exercise requirements. Dog training and good manners are pretty universal. The reason little dogs can be annoying is because they're allowed to be.
Do fully think this through and make sure you'll have time for a dog - often times it's better to wait until you're done with school, but if you're committed to your pet you should be able to make it work.