I played some videos on YouTube and my cats were very attentive! Panda even sat on my laptop and tried touching the screen with her paw. None of my cats are as vocal as the ones in the clips. Dogs make good videos, too. Their facial expressions are so funny. Sometimes I wonder what they're thinking of us!
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I have a little dog (bichon/poodle mix). Cleaning up after her is easy. Training her was simple. She's a smart dog and has assumed my personality. She also is very quiet when left to her own devices. She's almost 2 years old.

You have to find a dog that fits into your lifestyle. I would say you need to get a puppy that has not had more than 1 owner. You need the dog to be young so you can adapt it to you.

Good luck.

I like the foster to adopt Idea.

There is also another idea. I've adopted three dogs from a 'kill' shelter. They evaluate all dogs coming in and those that are not social or adoptable, well, they aren't available. Those that are have been well screened. It is unfortunate but for adopters it can be valuable.

Be realistic. A dog requires time, care, and consistency. The consistency may be the problem here. Dogs really like to settle in to a routine. They like feedings at the same time every day. The same with potty outings, or going for walks and even play.

If you feel you can make this kind of commitment, a dog would be a great help. If you have doubts or the fostering doesn't work out, remember, every cat is different also. A purring cat in the lap can be fantastic. I know you don't think much of cats but think of it as a cat. Your cat. Not cats in general. (It's the same with dogs). Everyone with a dog or cat should assume their animal is the best one in the world.
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