Interested in getting a dog? Great! But I have some advice for you...

Some people choose dogs based solely on looks. Bad decision. Breeds are different and individuals within those breeds vary, sometimes greatly. Sometimes that gorgeous, long-haired dog is wired-for-sound and sheds all over the place. Those are dangerous conditions if you live in an apartment in the city.

I personally know a family that owns two Alaskan malamutes. I live in Georgia. The poor dogs can't go outside but they have so much energy that they've destroyed nearly everything in the house.

Maybe you're allergic to dogs. I have a few breeds that would be perfect for you: Schnauzers, Poodles, and the Afghan Hound. These dogs have hair instead of fur and therefore lack dander , making them hypoallergenic, and they don't shed . This hair, however, does need to be groomed.

Do you want a couch potato buddy? I present to you, the English Bulldog, the French Bulldog, and the Pug. These little guys share the same smushed-in face and are all relatively small, making them perfect for apartment life. They don't need much exercise, but you do have to watch their weight.

Or perhaps you want a buddy who will also make you feel safe. A guard dog, per sé. For physical intimidation, we have a few big dogs: the Doberman Pinscher, the German Shepherd, and the Bullmastiff. These dogs are intensely loyal but do not do well with anyone coming into the home that is not in your immediate family.

But physically intimidating dogs are not the only kind of guard dogs, dogs, generally small dogs, who make a ruckus at anything suspicious will be far more helpful in the event of a break-in. Terriers will be your best bet, with a strong love of their family, they can be extremely affectionate, and their antics of chasing squirrels, stealing socks, and other quirks will have you laughing. But they do love to bark, so be prepared to put up with it. Other dogs on the list are dachshunds, chihuahuas, poodles, and miniature pinschers.

Do you have small kids that you're worried a dog might hurt? Here are some gentle giants to assuage your fears: the ever-iconic Golden retrievers and Labrador Retrievers, the sporty Beagle and Boxer, the massive Newfoundland, and the Target dog: the Bull Terrier.

Lastly, maybe you're in need of a training partner. The fluffy Shetland Sheepdog and Australian Shepherd, the easily recognizable dalmatian, the Siberian Husky, the gorgeous Irish Setter, and the intelligent English Springer Spaniel.

Dogs can be amazing companions, wonderful for those with depression and anxiety, they can teach your kids compassion and gentility. Dogs can get into trouble, get sick, get hurt, and they do not share the same long lifespan that we do. But despite their ups and downs, no matter what they look like or their little quirks, we as humans love our companions, our little Man's-Best-Friend.