A dog would be nice about now

Here in Dallas we've been blessed with unusually warm weather the past couple of days. I almost could have worn shorts... in February! I get home in the evening, and it is so nice outside - perfect weather for a walk. It makes me really want a dog. I've wanted one for a long time. It would be so nice to come home to some company and to have a walking partner for these beautiful evenings. I want a golden retriever puppy, only I want it to stay small. Good luck, I know. Can't someone learn how to make miniature goldens? Maybe that should be my dissertation research project. I once saw a mix between a beagle and a bassett hound that was really cute, and smaller. The baying bark might get annoying though. I want one that's cuddly and cute but that won't grow up to be too big. No, I do NOT want a cat! And no, I don't want to skip the puppy stage either.

The negatives:
I live in an apartment, and I would feel so guilty keeping it cooped up all day while I'm away at school. And I don't get home at the same time every day. This would also make house-breaking pretty difficult.

I think the complex charges $300-400 for a pet deposit.

I haven't fully read the training books yet. I once told myself that was a requirement before I would let myself get one.

But, if I wait till these things are not an issue, it will be at least 2 more years+. Only at that time might I possibly be able to afford to move into a rent house (the only answer I see to the above problems). By then I will have paid off my truck and will have some more disposable income.

Any thoughts or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.