Hey there all. After a year of living on my own in an apartment for school, away from my puppy, I think it may be time to start considering the possibility of getting a dog. I know a few types of dog that I really love, but I have some special considerations that I'm sure you guys could help shed some light on, though keep in mind I won't be getting one right away. I'm not too worried about a breed that is "hard to train" because this will not be my first dog. Prior dogs were a massive Siberian husky, 130lb german shepard, and my current runt of a german shepard. I understand what is involved for having a well trained dog.

I live a relatively active life (new places, new things, and will be jogging after my surgery), and would like an animal that would enjoy going for walks or exploring. On the flip side, I also live in a large studio apartment in Chicago, right next to a huge park and the beach. People walk their dogs there all the time, so being able to play nicely with others is important to me.

Also dogs that could be labeled a "pit bull" are pretty much illegal here via anything short of an actual law (ones that look sorta like it are fine, I'm sure). Apartments pretty much universally prohibit them. I really don't care for small dogs much at all, I would say the cut off, if absolutely necessary is ~50lbs. Preferably though a medium to large breed.

Intelligence would be a key characteristic I am looking for. Nothing I am less fond of than a "slow" dog. I love when you can look at and tell there is a thought process going on. Hopefully you know what I mean. The dogs needs for interaction isn't a problem. I am a full-time student. I do not work, and am only at class for 2-3hrs a day tops. There is PLENTY of time to spend with my puppy One that will function as a companion is a must.

You might think, hey, this is pretty easy aside from the room size, but I also have a bit of an allergy to dogs, which greatly varies with the breed. For instance my german shepard sets my skin on fire (just being in the room. my parents let her on the couch and never vaccume it), yet my friends lab/bulldog mix is perfectly finei dont even rubbing all over them. I intend on spending time with whatever breeds I am considering to test my reaction to them. So maybe let me know what animals in your experience set off allergies horribly or not at all.

So a recap since that was kind of long:

- I live in Chicago, in a small apartment, with a large park and beach a block away
- A sturdy dog that can go explore new areas (and car rides! what dog doesn't?!)
- not a toy dog (preferably 50-60lbs+) to me, there is no "that dog is too big, I like it"
- is not dog agressive. there are a LOT of animals around here, and a lot of people. It IS Chicago, after all.
- I will be home a majority of the day, and have plenty of time to let the dog out and walk him/her
- hopefully doesn't shed profusely, and doesn't give much of an allergic reaction. (ill be trying some diff allergy meds out soon)

Some dogs I have loved being around: newfies, roKeep in mind,tweiler, doberman, german shepard, husky, bulldog mixes, boarder collie (no I won't get one lol) aaaaand I think that's about all that I've been around and really liked.

What kind of dogs come to mind? I really appreciate your guys' input, thank you!