New to Dakar

Could anyone help me determine the pros and cons of neighborhoods in Dakar? We have a small, 9kg, very well behaved dog.

We will be in Dakar for at least 6 months and would like to find a comfortable, secure furnished villa or apartment (preferably with a view of the ocean and access to a beach/pool). I would love to be able to walk to coffee/grocery stores while my husband is at work - tall order I know.

I have been looking online but would love some local insight, and general pros and cons. We are staying in the city center now and are mildly hassled when we leave the hotel, the firm "non merci" seems to work - but when we leave the hotel WITH the dog no one approaches us, and he is a tiny thing, its funny!

Thanks in advance for any advice!
Best Wishes, Ann