A Guide to Happy and Healthy Apartment Living for Dogs

Living in an apartment doesn’t have to mean giving up on your pet ownership dreams. Not only do many complex apartments allow pets, but many also welcome them by way of on-site dog parks and exercise spaces. However, being permitted to own a pet is just one factor. Before you welcome a new dog into your home, take note of this helpful information:

Choose a Suitable Breed

When you visit Aria and other rental communities, you may notice that dogs tend to be of some breeds more than others. That’s because not all breeds live comfortably in apartments, whether you’re home with them all the time or not.

For example, you wouldn’t bring a Border Collie or Australian Cattle dog into your apartment, since they’re bred for intense herding and vast open spaces. In small spaces, they can become bored and destructive. Don’t let the small size of a Jack Russell Terrier fool you, either. They have a high-pitched bark and boundless energy that doesn’t typically align with shared-wall living.

Instead, choose low-energy, quiet breeds that adapt well to yardless spaces. French Bulldogs are quiet, small, and happy to lounge on the couch all day with minimal exercise needs. Greyhounds are also surprisingly docile couch potatoes who only require a short daily walk.

Ensure Vaccinations

Vaccinations are important in all dog populations to prevent illness. However, dogs living in apartment communities do tend to face a few more risks when sharing building spaces. With that in mind, it’s crucial to take a proactive approach to healthcare when you bring your new dog home.

Talk to your vet about the following essential vaccines:

Core vaccines (DHPP/DAPP): Protect against parvovirus, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and distemper.
Bordetella: Recommended in multi-tenant buildings to protect against kennel cough.
Leptospirosis: Recommended due to environmental risks from urban wildlife urine or any contaminated standing water in shared lawns.
Rabies: Often required by local jurisdictions and on rental leases, depending on the region.

Prioritize Daily Exercise

Even if you’ve adopted the biggest couch potato, that doesn’t mean your dog doesn’t require exercise. Outside time will help them meet their daily needs for physical and mental stimulation.

Fortunately, most apartment-suitable dogs don’t have high needs. Two or three short walks combined with bathroom breaks are necessary. You may also like to visit local green spaces for socialization and explore play sessions like running or fetch.

Create a Comfortable Home Environment

Given that your dog will be spending a great deal of time in your apartment with you, you want them to feel comfortable in their own space. Start by providing them with the basics, such as a bed, toys, food, and water. You may even like to set up a cozy den for them.

If your apartment has hard flooring, invest in soft, washable rugs that give their paws better grip. Finally, start creating a routine with your dog. Feed them, play with them, and exercise them at approximately the same times each day to establish a predictable structure they can rely on.

Pets make wonderful companions, and living in an apartment shouldn’t be a barrier to owning one. However, before you bring your new dog home for the first time, take the time to research breeds, their health and wellness needs, and the best products for comfort so you can provide them with the safe, happy, and healthy home environment they deserve.