I think the dog is an excellent idea. I had a dog who needed a great deal of exercise, so we were at parks all the time. That led to some really nice socializing for me. I found myself walking with other dog owners at this really big park near me. And my dog found a great friend two. The 4 of us would walk together. She was a medium size dog - 45 pounds. That size dog lends to getting you out of the house. Also, it's a big enough dog to protect itself and you. Small dogs definitely have their advantages, but they are easier to steal. With a small dog, you become the protector.

If you've never owned a dog before who was all your own, you are in four quite an experience. I got so I used to look forward to my boyfriend going out of town, so I could be alone with my dog.