How to Keep Your Dog Happy In a Small Apartment
Written By: Jane Grimshaw
It is possible to keep your dog happy in a small apartment by making good use of the space you have available. If you're looking to buy an apartment to suit your dog's needs, try to find one in a pet-friendly neighborhood that has plenty of parks. Some apartments do not allow pets, so make sure that you check all the apartment rules beforehand.
Choose the right breed of dog
You will need to consider the breed of dog you buy if you live in a small apartment. The size of the dog is not the most important factor when it comes to keeping one in an apartment, as some larger breeds, such as greyhounds, require less exercise than some smaller breeds, such as Jack Russell terriers. If your dog doesn't get the amount of exercise it requires, it will undoubtedly take out its frustrations on your prized sofa!
Pick a ground floor apartment
If you are thinking of getting a dog, or you are in the process of looking for an apartment that would be suitable for one, then it is best to try and get a ground floor apartment. Having a ground floor apartment makes it quicker and easier for you to take your dog outside and is safer than having an apartment with a balcony on a higher floor that may prove to be a safety risk to your dog.
Keep a tidy home
Having to keep your home tidy all the time may seem a little extreme, but it is necessary when you live in a small space with a canine companion. Many apartments are open plan these days, and this makes it virtually impossible to keep your dog away from certain areas. Trash cans should be emptied regularly, and shoes, clothing, food items, and cleaning products should all be kept in closed cupboards that your pet cannot access. You should also think about what houseplants you have, as some plants can be poisonous to pets if ingested.
Dedicate a space to your dog
It is a good idea to dedicate a specific area of your apartment to your dog. This will enable your pet to have its own space and can house things like a dog bed, feeding bowls, a toy box, a dog crate, collars and leashes, and a rug or mat. Your dog will then get used to relaxing in its own area while you plan the rest of your apartment to suit your own needs. Remember to make sure that your pet's space is not in a busy traffic area and is away from draughts and direct sunlight.
Make time for indoor games
Being in an apartment obviously means that you can't just let your dog out into the backyard every time it wants to run off a little energy, so playing some indoor games with your pet will help to stimulate it both physically and mentally. You could set up some games for your pet like hide and seek and search for the treats or missing toy. If you have enough space, you could also try setting up a little obstacle course to keep your pooch entertained.
Don't leave your dog home alone for too long
If you live in a small apartment, it is even more important not to leave your dog home alone for too long. You may prefer to crate train your dog and leave it securely in a crate while you are out of the flat. If you have a puppy or a small dog that needs to use the toilet more often, it is a good idea to place a puppy potty training pad down before you go out. If your pet tends to bark when you leave the flat, you should try training it not to bark by using plenty of treats. If you do have to leave your dog home alone for long periods of time, it is best to get someone to come round and check on your pet and take it for a walk.
Conclusion
If you live in a small apartment and are considering getting a dog, it is best to get one when you can afford to take some time out of your busy schedule. It is important to spend as much time as possible with your new canine companion so that it can settle into its new surroundings. Small apartments may not be able to offer a dog lots of space to run around in, but they are still able to provide a cosy and loving home for the right dog.