I am looking to purchase a dog too. Since i have been looking i have been researching various dog breeds. The best one that i came up with was the german schnauzer. They are very protective, they do not shed, and they do not carry the doggy odor. They are also very loyal dogs but they must be socialized very well.You can get those in different sizes but they can be expensive.

I agree with everyone... stay away from chows for the maintenance, your smaller breeds that are good with kids and apts are shelties, golden retriever ( medium), beagle, and the idea of a shelter is great. You can take your kids to be involved in the process of picking a dog. Good luck on your search!

Shihtzu's And The Wiener Dogs.

Hi, I Have A Puggle And She Is Awesome... She Is Very Loving And Affectionate, And Loves To Play. She Requires Alot Of Our Attention. She Doesn't Shed A Ton Until She Goes For A Ride In My Car And Gets Her Hair All Over My Black Cloth Seats. She's A Great Dog But Likes To Be Center Of Attention. Chows Are To Big For A Apartment I Think. Although I Think A Pug Is Good For You B.c They Are Not Realy High Strung And Are Semi Lazy Which Is Good For A Apartment. They All Require Walking, And My Puggle Could Walk All Day Long. She Really Likes To Tear Ass Around The Back Yard To Burn Off Steam After Being In The House All Day. Best Of Luck.. You Should Check Out Petfinder.com It Will Search For A Animal Anywhere Within Your Area Needing A Good Home. Unfornately There Are Many Looking For A Good Home. I Used The Site And Hear Very Good Things About It. ~crystal~