Downsizing With Dogs: How to Make Dog Ownership Work in an Apartment

Owning a dog can bring endless joy and companionship, but if you live in an apartment or small space, it can also be a challenge. Living in an apartment doesn’t mean having to give up all the benefits of owning a furry friend, there are plenty of strategies that pet owners can use to make even tiny homes work for their canine companion.

In this blog post, we’ll explore how you can keep your pooch happy while living in an apartment by exploring various downsizing techniques. If you want some more tips on how to better equip your apartment to home your canine then keep reading.

Decide the Best Dog Breed for your Apartment

The first and possibly most important decision is finding the right breed, which can be a challenge. Some dogs may be too high energy to live comfortably in a smaller space, while others may be too vocal for close quarters. Here are a few of the best apartment dogs that you can consider next time you’re looking for breeds.

Pugs

Pugs are known for their laid-back and affectionate personalities, making them well-suited for apartment living. They require minimal exercise, are small in size, and love to curl up on the couch or a favorite chair to take naps.

French Bulldogs

French Bulldogs are similar in size to Pugs but are usually a little larger, they are known for their adaptability and minimal barking. These playful breeds are also incredibly affectionate and don’t require a lot of space, making them ideal for apartment living.

Chihuahuas

Chihuahuas are also a popular choice due to their small size and low exercise needs.  While they may be a bit more vocal than other breeds, their bark is usually worse than their bite. Chihuahuas are loyal and loving companions that can easily fit into the small spaces of an apartment.

Pomeranian

Pomeranians are small and lively, they may require some extra exercise in comparison to other breeds but can easily adapt to an apartment lifestyle. They are very loyal and affectionate and their fur means they’ll easily keep warm in winter.

Consider Space Available in Your Apartment

While choosing the perfect dog breed can be an exciting process, it is also important to consider how much space you have available. Whether you live in a small or mid-sized apartment, this could make a big difference. The size and energy level of your furry companion should be taken into account so work out the best environment to suit them.

There are some breeds that do well indoors in medium-sized places compared to tiny apartments, while more space is better try to find a middle ground where you have space but is not overwhelming for your dog. It’s also worth considering whether your chosen breed needs a lot of exercise or can thrive in a more relaxed environment.

Ensure the Apartment Allows Pets Before Signing Your Lease

As the excitement of finding your dream apartment starts to settle in, it’s important to not overlook the rules of your apartment or building. If you’re a dog owner, you’ll want to make sure your new living space is as accommodating to your furry friend as it is to you. Before signing on the dotted line, it’s crucial to do your research and ensure your apartment building doesn’t have any breed or size restrictions, as well as any additional fees or rules.

Create a Daily Routine to Keep Your Dog Occupied

Trying to keep your dogs entertained in small areas may seem difficult, but with a little creativity, they can still get the exercise they need. The key is implementing tasks into your daily routine such as taking a morning stroll before work or setting up playdates with other dogs in the neighborhood. Even in a small space, your furry companion can thrive with the right routine.

Conclusion

When it comes to apartment life, certain dog breeds are better suited than others but with a bit of research and preparation, you’ll be surprised at how many options you have. As long as you set up an adequate routine and keep your dogs active and engaged then you shouldn’t have a problem looking after them in any space. By following these simple tips, you will have started your pup on a lifetime of happy apartment living.

 

Image Credit: Photo by Madalyn Cox on Unsplash