There are several factors to consider when looking for a dog for your apartment. Not all dogs are cut out for apartment life, and it’s crucial that you don’t end up choosing a dog that isn’t well-adapted to living in a smaller apartment - especially when they need lots of room to run around, or don’t always like sharing smaller spaces with other dogs or people.
Consider the Dog’s Size
While generally speaking, a small dog is a better fit for a smaller living space, not all small dogs are suited for apartment life. Just because a dog is small, does not mean it will be quiet, and it certainly does not mean it will be content to roam around a small area for the duration of a workday.
On the other hand, just because a dog is large, doesn’t mean it will be ill-suited to live in an apartment. Some large dogs don’t require a large living space and will have an easy time adjusting to apartment life.
Consider Sound Levels
Dogs that are frequent or strong barkers can be a challenge in apartments due to the close proximity of neighbors. It’s not always easy to train a traditionally talkative dog into being less so - but with noise complaints, and sometimes even fines, certain pups just might not be cut out for apartment living.
Keeping this into account, perhaps choosing a quieter breed would be a better option. At least while landlords and close neighbors are in the picture.
Keep Temperament in Mind
Going hand-in-hand with the amount of noise a dog makes on a daily basis, a dog’s temperament is something to be conscious of when living in an apartment. While going to and from your apartment with your dog, you will undoubtedly be in situations where your furry friend will be in the same hallway or elevator as strangers.
None of your neighbors will have anything to complain about if your dog is friendly and well-mannered. However, if your pup is too friendly, or too curious, and jumps or otherwise seeks attention when people aren’t expecting it, there could be some tension. These are easily trainable with certain techniques, but if certain breeds are just less rambunctious than others, it might be a simpler option.
Be Conscious of Their Energy Level
All dogs enjoy their fair share of playtime, but high-energy dogs that require large spaces to run around even while indoors will likely have a hard time adjusting to apartment life. Having a yard is not a luxury most people who live in apartments have, so finding a dog that is low-energy might be ideal for someone living in a smaller space.
While it is entirely possible to have a high-energy dog in an apartment, there is a lot more work that has to be done in order for them to be totally satisfied.
Don’t Forget About Potty Training
If you are looking to bring a puppy into your apartment, potty training your dog is critical. It is important to keep in mind that taking your dog out to go potty is a potential hassle if you have to go down several flights of stairs or take an elevator ride just so your pup can relieve themselves. Making sure they are properly trained to wait until they are outside to do so might be a challenge for not only your puppy but also for you.
Patience is key when working with a puppy, and although it might be difficult at first, you have to stay committed or they’ll form habits that will be hard to reverse as they grow up. If you are dedicated and willing to put in the time and effort, you will have your puppy fully trained and adjusted to living in an apartment.
4 Great Dogs for Your Apartment
Shih Tzu
With that being said, Shih Tzus are a great, small dog that was revered by the Chinese for more than a thousand years and bred to live and lounge in palaces. Not overly loud and not unfamiliar with being inside for extended periods of time, these adorable lap dogs will be more than happy to make your apartment their home.
Bulldog
Despite giving off the appearance of being tough, grumpy, and loud, the Bulldog is a great choice for those looking for a relatively lazy dog that is friendly, quiet, and doesn’t require tons of exercise to be happy.
Bichon Frise
Extremely charming and outgoing, the Bichon Frise fears no stranger and loves to explore. They will make friends with all of your neighbors, even including other dogs that live in your apartment building.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
One of the quietest breeds around, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel won’t disturb neighbors late at night with incessant barking. More than happy to snuggle up and watch TV on a rainy day, the Cavalier is docile by nature and loves to be affectionate.
Ready to make your apartment a dog’s forever home? Check out our puppies today!