A friend called me the other day with a common concern- she wants to adopt a dog but has a smallish apartment with no outdoor space. And it seems she’s having a problem with dog shelters (which apparently is not a new problem).
So let’s look into this- is it really such a terrible thing to have a dog in a small apartment (hint, no it’s not).
Putting aside the fact that there are far too many dogs looking for loving homes, let’s turn to the experts.
The main consensus seems to be that it’s not the dog itself, or the size, but rather the breed that matters. Some breeds are just more adapt to smaller spaces. This is linked to energy levels and what we’re going to call barking potential.
Dogtime has a listing of breeds that adapt well to apartment living (from big to small):
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Maltese
- Boston Terrier
- French Bulldog
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- English Bulldog
- Basset Hound
- American Staffordshire terrier
- Greyhounds
- Great Danes
This isn’t to say that other breeds won’t suffice. And each dog has their own personality and quirks. You can have the most energetic pooch in small place- just make the time to make sure they get plenty of energy.
If you are making the leap, or already have here are some top tips for cohabitation with your dog:
- Establish a routine to minimize ‘accidents’
- If you have behavioral issues (such as barking or chewing on furniture) get a good trainer to help
- Hire a dog walker to give you some peace of mind
- Place a chair or bench by a window to allow your pup to jump up and look outside
- Create a space that’s theirs, with a comfy bed and their toys
- And of course, if you are renting don’t forget to double check with your landlord!
Further reading:
I have known people who have dogs in apartments and it works out just fine. I agree it is more about the temperament of the dog and of course owners must be committed to taking the dog out and to exercising the dog. Thanks for linking to the hop!
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It’s not the dogs. It’s the owners. I can’t count the number of times I’ve seen free dogs on Craigslist because they’ve moved to an apartment and can’t keep the dog. Sad. Sometimes it’s not the apartment, it’s the dog barking all day while the owner is at work. Or not picking up after the poop. Sad, but we people are totally to blamefor this one.
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Agree! It’s a commitment to keep a dog in an apartment… but then again the moment you take a dog it’s a commitment doesn’t matter if you live on a farm, with a big backyard or a tiny apartment.
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This is unfortunately an unfounded and unreasonable requirements some shelters/rescues make. Like a small apartment with a loving family isn’t MUCH better than a cage at the shelter…huh?
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@myslimdoggy Well said!
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