I agree about big dogs in apartments! It's totally do able depending both on the breed and on the commitment of the owner.

I had a shephard/dobie mix for 12 years who went from apartment to apartment with me. It was wonderful because it forced me to be out and active on a regular basis because she needed it. Walks, runs, dog parks (in her younger days), you name it!

In fact, when I finally got married and bought a house with a yard, she had no interest in it. She just wanted to be where I was, even if it was watching football.