So what are you suggesting? That people who, through circumstance or preference, should live in a concrete tower, surrounded by people who show little or no interest in the other people living around them, should just curl up in their sofa's alone!
Well some people may like to do just that. But for many others, the companionship of a furry flatmate is all they have to destress, or to simply get up and go in the morning. Not everyone can afford the luxury of a house (whether purchase or renting) in order to have a backyard for a dog to run around in.
Having dogs in apartments is common place and very effective in cities such as New York. Most apartment complex's are pet friendly and they advertise their location, not just by proximity to bars and restaurants, but to dog parks. It gets people out and about from their apartments. And that cannot be a bad thing.
There is evidence that suggests that people who own pets, and take good care of them, are better towards their fellow human beings as well. I know in my complex, that those who state that they hate animals are the ones who cause the most trouble to their fellow humans/neighbours. Just an interesting observation.
With more and more mediium/high density housing in this country in the future, there are going to be more dogs (and cats) living in these high rise structures. Responsible pet ownership should always be encouraged -and getting someone else to take your dog for a walk when you don't have time is being a responsible pet owner. Whether you are in an apartment or a house for that matter.