For the majority of people, choosing a dog to add to any household can be a difficult decision. There is much to consider, such as the breed, temperament and the needs of both the owner and animal. However, when they choose to bring a dog into an apartment unit, the decision becomes even more difficult. An apartment brings the added challenges of space, neighbors and restroom considerations. Therefore, it’s important that owners do their research and become informed about breeds, needs and find the best apartment dogs for them.
Things to Consider
When people are selecting the best apartment dogs, there are several things they should consider and keep in mind. The first thing they should consider is what restrictions the apartment has on dogs. Many apartment complexes have their own rules stating whether tenants can have a dog, breed restrictions and size restrictions. Before even thinking about getting a dog, they should read over the apartment agreement. This will help immediately rule out certain sized dogs and breeds.
The size of the apartment and the full-grown size of the dog is another huge consideration. Puppies are cute and small, but depending on the breed, they can quickly grow into a large animal that needs more space than some small apartments can provide. Therefore, it’s extremely important that potential owners do their homework on breeds. Check the size and weight of a full-grown dog in that breed and then determine if that size could live comfortably in the apartment.
One of the most overlooked considerations is the energy level of both the owner and the dog. They will be spending several years together, and it’s important their lifestyles mesh. If the owner enjoys spending their free time relaxing on the couch, a high-energy dog will not be a good match. Likewise, if they are looking for a dog to go jogging with, a low-energy lap dog is not the best option. They also need to keep their work schedule in mind. A high-energy dog is going to want to be played with and exercised. Working long hours or traveling frequently for work is not going to work with a high-energy dog. When searching for an apartment dog, they also need to ask themselves whether they can keep up with the energy level of the dog, and if there are places, such as parks or dog parks, within a reasonable distance where the dog can play and burn off energy.
Other things potential owners should be considering when selecting a dog are the maintenance needs and upkeep of the dog, what age dog are they looking for, and the ease of training the dog. All of these considerations should be made when selecting any dog, not just an apartment dog. They should sit down and write out a list of what they’re looking for in a dog, using these considerations as guidelines.
The Best Apartment Breeds
Toy Breeds
Small Breeds
A small breed consists of small dogs, generally getting no larger than twenty-five pounds when fully grown. Basset Hounds, Beagles, Schipperkes, Bichon Frises, Boston Terriers, English Bulldogs, Cairn Terriers, Chinese Shar-Peis, Lhasa Apsos, Maltese, Miniature Schnauzers, Pembroke Welsh Corgis, Scottish Terriers, West Highland White Terriers and Yorkshire Terrier are among the highest rated, small breed apartment dogs. Small breeds make great apartment dogs due to their size. However, small breed dogs can be difficult to train and many breeds may not be compatible with children.
Medium Breeds
A medium breed consists of medium-sized dogs, generally getting no larger than fifty pounds when fully grown. Australian Shepherds, American Cocker Spaniels, Brittany Spaniels, English Springer Spaniels and Poodles are all wonderful medium-sized apartment dogs. Medium breeds are excellent dogs as they are loyal, playful and tend to be great family dogs. However, keep in mind their size and energy levels when selecting a medium breed apartment dog.
Large Breeds
A large breed consists of large dogs, which can get up to one hundred pounds. Generally, large breeds are not considered when searching for an apartment dog, due to their size and energy levels. However, there are a few large breed dogs who do well with apartment living, if your apartment has enough room to house them. Airedale Terriers, Alaskan Malamutes, Boxers, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Chow Chows, Collies, Dalmatians, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Shetland Sheepdogs and Weimaraners will do fine in apartments if they can be exercised routinely.
The breeds listed are some of the best apartment dogs. However, they are not the only dogs that should be considered. For people interested in finding an apartment dog, research and knowledge go a long way. Taking their time to find the perfect dog for them and their apartment will ensure a lifelong friendship between the owner and the dog.