(http://camdenblogs.files.wordpress.com/2011/02/enzo-001.jpg) Getting a new dog can be a big decision when you’re moving to an apartment. I know because 6 weeks ago I brought home a new member of my family “Enzo”. It can be really tough when you don’t know where to start, don’t have the time, and don’t have the right information to find good apartment dogs. I found a list of the top 10 most popular apartment dogs to help with your selection. (It’s a good idea to check with your leasing office for breed and weight restrictions)

Yorkshire Terrier

Description: The Yorkie is a good dog for apartment life. They are very active indoors and will do okay without a yard. The Yorkie is sensitive to the cold and prefers warm climates. Safe around small children? No Temperament: They do best with older, considerate children. Price Range: $500 to $2500+

Miniature Schnauzer

Description: The Miniature Schnauzer is a good dog for apartment life. It is fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard. Safe around small children? Yes Temperament: Playful, happy and alert, they like children. Price Range: $500 to $1500 Chihuahua Description: The Chihuahua hates the cold and may shiver. It will tolerate and even appreciate a warm sweater on cooler days. They are great little dogs for apartment life. Safe around small children? Yes Temperament: The Chihuahua is a good companion dog. Price Range: $750 to $2000+

Dachshund

Description: Good for apartment living. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard. Safe around small children? No Temperament: They are best with older, considerate children and are moderately protective. Price Range: $250 to $500+

Pekingese

Description: The Pekingese are good for apartment life. They are relatively inactive indoors and will do okay without a yard. Safe around small children? No Temperament: Not recommended for young children who are too rough Price Range: $500 to $1500+

Beagle

Description: Beagles will do okay in an apartment if they get plenty of chances to be outdoors. They are very active indoors and a small yard will be sufficient. Safe around small children? Yes Temperament: Excellent with children and generally good with other dogs, but should not be trusted with non-canine pets, unless they are socialized with cats and other household animals when they are young. Price Range: $200 to $1000+

Bichon Frise

Description: The Bichon Frise can live in an apartment if it gets enough exercise. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard. Safe around small children? Yes Temperament: This sociable trait also means that they are fine in the company of other dogs & pets and are excellent with children. Price Range: $500 to $1000+

Pomeranian

Description: The Pomeranian is good for apartment living. They are very active indoors and will do okay without a yard. Keep the dog quiet in hot weather to avoid overheating. Safe around small children? No Temperament: Not recommended for very young children. Too much attention from children can make these dogs nervous and they may become snappish. Price Range: $500 to $5000+

Pug

Description: The Pug is good for apartment life. It is relatively inactive indoors and will do okay without a yard. Cannot withstand hot or cold weather and should be kept indoors at a comfortable temperature. Safe around small children? Yes Temperament: Pugs get along well with other dogs and pets, and they behave impeccably with both children and visitors. Price Range: $500 to $1000+

Basset Hound

Description: The Basset hound will do okay in an apartment. They are very inactive indoors but outdoors they will run for hours in play if given the chance. They will do okay without a yard, but should be given plenty of opportunities to run and play to keep it healthy and trim. Safe around small children? Yes Temperament: They are mild but not timid; very affectionate with its master and friendly with children. Price Range: $500 to $1000+ Whatever breed you choose do your homework first. Make sure that if you are getting a puppy you understand the time and training that the puppy will need. (I should know…Training my new Yorkie puppy is going… well let’s just say it’s going. Check out your local Animal Humane Society at www.humanesociety.org. For local pets that need a home