Dogs can live very comfortably in small apartments (and so do their owners). What kind of dog will make the best roommate? That's a trick question. It's really no about the dog, but the owner.

Five questions to make a wise choice:

(1) Size

Size isn't important (unless your landlord or condo board has rules).

How big is too big? I've met 70-pound couch potatoes and 9-pound balls of energy. Small dogs can be noisier and can shed more than big dogs - sometimes!

Of course, in a 500-square-foot apartment, you may feel crowded if you invite a Great Dane to share your space.

(2) Exercise Needs

How much exercise will Fido need? Even in a big house, your dog would need to leave for exercise. Running around a house or yard is not enough. Dogs need to walk to bond with their owners. They need to play and run.

But some dogs tend to be couch potatoes. Others need two or three hours a day -- running at full speed. Investigate before adopting. And decide where you'll take the dog for exercise.

(3) Socialization

Does your dog have a history of friendliness with people and other animals? City dogs encounter neighbors, both canine and human, in ele

vators and on sidewalks. You don't want to referee fights on a regular basis, let alone pay huge fees for doggie damage.

(4) Obedience.

Are you willing to sign up for obedience training? Nuisance barking can usually be ended with training, and training should be your first priority after Fido comes home. If your dog displays destructive or hostile behavior, consult a trainer immediately to see what you must do - or recognize that this dog, alas, may not be right for your lifestyle.

(5) Time out for the Owner.

Have you located overnight care? Doggie day care? Most urban areas offer several options. Fido can run around for a few hours while you shop - a real treat, especially in the rain.

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