Apartment Living: Best Breeds & Personalities for Dogs
Congratulations! You just moved into a new apartment and are now settling in. Now you want to adopt a dog. What are the top dogs for apartment living? While size is an important factor, many other things to consider. It is important to choose the right pet for you. This means that it is necessary to carefully consider which dogs are best suited to living in an apartment.
This guide will help you decide if you are ready to adopt a puppy. It covers everything you need to know about a puppy, including its personality, energy level, breed, and physical needs. You’ll not only end up with a pet that you love but also one that is well-suited to your new home.
Plan and get permission
It would help to consider both your personal and dog’s needs when living in a small space. You need to confirm that the apartment complex permits dogs and any restrictions. You don’t want to be forced to move because of a dog-friendly policy. Or worse, to return your dog to the shelter where he was adopted. Let’s look at space. Is there enough space for two or more dogs? Dogs require very little indoor space as long as they have somewhere to sleep, eat, and stretch. Dogs do require physical activity so make sure to consider outdoor space. Are there parks nearby where you can take your dog? Or are there grassy areas you can walk around?
Please consider the route your pet must take to go outside to relieve himself. You’ll likely be climbing and descending stairs a lot if you live on the third floor in a triple-decker. This could be great for exercise, but three flights of stairs are too steep for pets with arthritis or their legs and hips problems. Large apartment buildings with elevators can pose a problem for pets who use the restroom frequently. It can be time-consuming to wait for an elevator to arrive and then ride it to the ground floor. However, it can help pets socialize with other residents.
The personality and behaviour of good apartment dogs
You may not be able to live in small spaces with your pet. It is best to know the dog well before you adopt him. Dogs that bark a lot are not ideal for apartment living. While you are at work, your vocal dog could be annoying neighbours. Worse, your dog might bark at you when you’re not home, making your life difficult. You might be evicted if your dog barks incessantly.
A dog who can socialize with other animals and people will be the happiest apartment dog. Your pet will be living in a shared apartment building and may come into contact with other residents, including their pets. Your dog shouldn’t be able to snap at other pets in the hall or run in fear from neighbours who pass by in shared spaces.
Consistent dog training can help with behavioural issues such as bolting from people and lunging at other dogs. However, it is important to assess your ability to handle these needs before bringing a dog home. Doggy daycare is a great option for apartment dogs. It will keep them active, socialize, and provide a change of scenery. Daycare may not be an option. You might consider hiring a dog walker who will walk your pet while at work.
The Best Breeds For Apartment Living
Although you may think that only small breeds are the best for apartment living, apartment-dwelling dogs will be influenced by their personality, energy, and physical needs. Some larger dog breeds can be adapted to smaller spaces, even with lower energy.
Certain breeds make great apartment pets. The American Kennel Club has a comprehensive guide that will help you determine which breeds are best suited for smaller spaces. You can also compare different breeds while you learn about them. The bichon frise and French Bulldog were the most popular breeds to make the guide. Many breeds make great doggy roommates, including purebred dogs. Volunteers at the shelter can help you find a dog that matches your lifestyle and personality. Adopting a dog from a shelter can be a great way to see how your dog will react to living in a small area or a kennel, with distractions like other pets and people.
