You Wanted To Have A Dog. However, There’s Just One Problem.
What is the best apartment dog? As you may already know, living in an apartment presents potential issues if you ever choose to keep a dog in your unit. Dogs that thrive in small spaces such as apartments are generally from smaller breeds such as Chihuahuas, pugs, or terriers.
However, living in an apartment doesn’t automatically mean that you are confined to smaller dogs, there are bigger dogs that can live in apartments. You just need to know how to adopt the right one.
We’ll take a look at some of the things you need to consider when picking the best apartment dog.
Check Your Landlord’s Pet Policies
The first thing you need to do before you consider having a dog is to understand the pet policies for your rental. Your landlord can provide you with the policies, and this ensures that you are in compliance with your apartment’s rules regarding pets.
Provide the specific records or documents your landlord would require. For example, some landlords would need you to submit vaccination records or registration of your dog and other pertinent documents. Finally, you need to read and understand the policies, terms, and conditions related to having a dog living in the apartment.
Choose A Smaller Dog
Generally speaking, an apartment offers a smaller space compared to single-family homes. In an apartment, you usually don’t have a backyard where you can let your dog roam around. You only have the four walls of your home that set the boundaries of your dog’s freedom of movement.
For this reason, a big dog breed might not be a good choice. Since big dogs require bigger space, they might not feel comfortable living in a cramped place. If you go for a smaller dog, you might want to consider chihuahuas, bulldogs, pugs, and terriers.
Choose A Dog With A Calm Temperament
What you don’t want to happen is to create conflict with your neighbors just because your dog is too noisy or rowdy. Since you are living in an apartment, you share walls, floors, and ceilings with your neighbors.
Please note that not all small dogs are calm. Some smaller dogs may even have louder barks compared to bigger dogs. So, be sure to take into consideration the temperament of the dog you’re about to adopt. Dogs that are low-energy and calm include beagles, pugs, bulldogs, spaniels, and corgis.
Since you’re living in an apartment, steer away from guardian dogs. They are known to be territorial. Though they are great at guarding your property and family, they can be too reactive to every movement and noise. They may bark at almost anything strange. This is something you might want to avoid considering the proximity you have with your neighbors.
Consider An Older Dog
Puppies that are still exploring new things and filled with energy could also pose a problem. Older dogs could be a good choice since they are more likely to be mature and calmer compared to younger dogs.
Seek Advice
When looking for the best apartment dog, knowledge is your friend. If this is your first time adopting a dog, learn as much about adoption, your living space, and logistics in forming a long-lasting with your dog, before you adopt. Think about the limitations to having a pet in a small space, the amount of time and effort you can afford to give in training, as well as time for walks and attention, and if you still feel good – it’s time to adopt.
First, you can go to your local kennel or animal shelter. Ask the attendant which dog might be best when living in an apartment. A knowledgeable pet store or shelter manager should be able to give you some recommendations.
Ask as many questions as you can. The more questions asked and answered, the more chances you find the best apartment dog. Some questions you may include are the following:
- Which dog should I choose if I’m living in an apartment?
- How often does this dog need exercise?
- Is this dog known to be quiet or noisy?
- How loud does this dog bark?
- Can you show me a calm dog?
- On what occasion does this dog bark?
Ask around. Consider speaking to pet owners who are living in an apartment. They may also be able to give you some pieces of advice. A qualified and experienced vet could also point you in the right direction. The best apartment dog is one that is not only compatible with you but also the neighbors.
Finally, don’t hesitate to do your own research. The more information you get, the better your chances of finding the right dog for you.
