What to Consider When Choosing a Dog for Apartment Living: Not Just Its Size

29.01.2025 15:19

Any place is more fun together – with a dog, of course.

But before becoming the happy owner of a four-legged friend, it is worth weighing several factors - so that your cohabitation is comfortable for you, the animal itself and your neighbors.

It is generally accepted that when choosing a dog for an apartment, you should rely solely on its “dimensions”.

And this is indeed important, but in addition to size, you should also clarify the animal's activity level and its tendency to bark.

Even if you choose a tiny dog, it is not always suitable for keeping in an apartment, as it is too energetic and barks a lot.

Dog
Photo: © Belnovosti

Of course, you can try to wean your dog off of vocalizing every now and then, but you need to understand that training will take a lot of time and effort.

Are you ready for such work?

If not, a calmer breed that doesn't require too much exercise and won't bark at every sound might be a better choice.

On the other hand, large Great Danes and St. Bernards with their calm temperaments are ideal for an apartment, but may be off-limits to landlords if you have to rent.

Sometimes apartment owners impose a ban on specific breeds because they are considered aggressive.

Therefore, you will have to study not only the characteristics of different dog breeds, but also the rules for keeping pets in an apartment building.

Lastly, when choosing a dog, make sure that it is calm around strangers, can climb stairs, can handle being in a cramped elevator, and can be easily trained to walk on a leash.

Elena Shimanovskaya Author: Elena Shimanovskaya Editor of Internet resources