First dog in apartment: GSD or Dachshund? Cheaper, easier to train?

Actually neither one would be good for a first time dog owner. Both dogs are very headstrong with a high prey drive. If you do get either breed I suggest you take them to have professional training (with you) so you will be able to control the dog appropriately. If you really pressed me to pick one then I would say the Husky.

Both are very high energy dogs that require a lot of training and exercise. I'd only get one of those if you have the time to devote to their training and exercise. German Shepherds are not good for first time dog owners, so if you are a first time dog owner, a border collie would be better. I hope this helps.

If you are living in a small apartment, then a small breed dog would honestly be a better choice; in addition, smaller breeds don't need as much maintenance as a medium breed dog. You could consider a pug, a pekinese, a French bulldog, or even a chihuahua. These breeds need a minimal amount of exercise, and are very happy being lap dogs.

Great question! This is a bit of a tough question in that a number of breeds of dogs who are good guard dogs are also difficult. For example, a German Shepherd. Good guard dogs, but require a lot of training and are not for a first time dog owner. If you don't know how to handle them, they can be aggressive to humans and small animals. They are also high energy dogs. Personally, I would recommend a Golden Retriever. They are absolutely lovely dogs, extremely loyal, very easy to train, excellent with humans and small animals, and if need be, could defend the owner. I had a Golden for 12 years, and she was honestly the best dog I have ever owned. So sweet and caring, but I knew that if I was ever in trouble, she would defend me. Goldens are a large breed dog, and large breed dogs can be intimidating to strangers. My Minnie would bark if someone came to the door and knocked, but otherwise didn't bark much. Sometimes a bark is enough to scare someone off. I would look into getting a Golden Retriever for the reasons I listed above. I hope this helps!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! You can absolutely have a German Shepherd inside. However, keep in mind that they are high energy dogs so it will be crucial to ensure regular exercise and daily walks. For example, it would be good to at least give him 1 hour of playing/exercise time daily which may include long walks for instance. Generally, when picking up a new pup I just recommend to go with the puppy that appears to be the happiest to see you. Also, it is important to make sure the puppy seems happy and healthy which is why it is recommended to have them evaluated by a veterinarian after picking them up. Good luck! Nothing like a new puppy!

Although every pet is different and has different energy requirements, this sounds like a good schedule for any dog. Plenty of exercise will help to keep this likely active mixed breed happy and healthy. Best of luck and please feel free to post any additional questions.

All dogs need space to exercise and access to both physical and mental stimulation, unless you are able to take them out at least 4-6times a day a fenced garden really is recommended for any medium-large breed in order to limit boredom and destructive behaviors. I really would not recommend any retrieving/herding breeds (labradors/spaniels/collies etc) for such an arrangement but an older sight hound such as a retired greyhound which has been used to a kenneling routine and limited periods of controlled exercise would be expected to adapt quite well as long as you have the time for daily exercise and frequent toilet breaks