If you’re a city-dwelling future pet parent considering adding a dog to your household, it’s important to research dog breeds that may not be well-suited to apartment living, as well as those that make excellent apartment-friendly companions. In this search, size isn’t the only factor to consider. While some larger breeds can thrive in apartments with their lower activity levels, others may need more space due to their higher energy. Conversely, certain small breeds with abundant energy can still be content with indoor play or brisk walks.
However, when choosing an apartment-friendly dog, it’s also crucial to consider your neighbors. Opting for a breed who doesn’t bark excessively and behaves politely in shared spaces is essential for maintaining positive relationships in your apartment complex. In apartment or condo settings, many small dogs may display high energy and frequent barking, making them less suitable for apartment living. Hence, the most desirable traits in an apartment dog include being quiet, low-energy, and displaying polite behavior towards other residents.
Training tips for apartment dogs
If you opt for a dog breed not suited to apartment living, you may need to invest in additional training to help them adapt. Training dogs not inherently suited to apartment living requires patience and consistency. Start by establishing clear boundaries and rules within your apartment to create a structured routine for your dog. Focus on basic obedience commands such as “sit”, “stay”, “come”, and “leave it”. Barking-related training commands including “hush” or “quiet” are also crucial. This training is essential for managing your dog’s behavior both indoors and outdoors.
Since space may be limited, prioritize leash training to ensure your dog walks calmly and obediently, especially in communal areas. Crate training can also help your dog feel safe and secure while you’re away from your apartment. This may help your pup avoid anxiety, which could lead to barking habits.
