4 Tips for Dog Owners in Apartments

Apartment living with dogs can be a rewarding experience, but it also comes with some unique challenges. Unlike homes with yards, apartment living requires taking your fur baby on walks for bathroom breaks and exercise. Luckily, pets are often adaptable, and those living in apartments can adjust well to these environments. Pets make communities better and encourage people to connect with their neighbors.

Only 8% of rental housing is free of all pet restrictions. If you live in or are considering living in an apartment with a canine friend, ensure you understand the apartment’s pet policies. Follow our tips for dog owners in apartments so you can have a comfortable stay within the community.

1. Look for Apartment Dog Breeds 

Some breeds are better suited as apartment dogs than others, such as French bulldogs, pugs and basset hounds. When selecting a new dog or moving to an apartment with your current furry friend, consider the specific requirements of the breed — including size, energy levels and temperament — to ensure a harmonious living environment for both of you. 

Here are other points to keep in mind when researching different breeds:

• Pet size: Smaller breeds tend to adapt better to smaller living spaces due to their manageable size. They may be content with shorter walks and indoor play. However, while some large breeds may find limited spaces challenging, others, like Greyhounds, can thrive in apartments as they’re often calmer and enjoy lounging. 
• Energy levels: Some dogs require multiple outlets for exercise daily, while others may be satisfied with just one walk a day. A lack of exercise can lead to behavioral issues, so try to match a breed’s typical energy level with your lifestyle. 
• Temperament: Choose breeds known for their calm demeanor, as they are better suited to handle the close quarters and potential noise of apartment living. Understanding your best friend’s temperament may also help prevent stress-related behaviors from spending time alone in smaller living spaces.
• Barking and noise: Consider breeds that are less prone to excessive barking, as noise can disturb neighbors. Expose your puppy to various people, sounds and experiences early to help them adjust to the urban environment.
• Living space: Assess your living area to ensure there’s enough room for pets to move comfortably. You should have enough space for a kennel, dog bed, food dishes and toys.
• Pet policies: Be aware of your apartment’s pet policies, including breed restrictions and any additional pet fees. Some landlords may also have limits on size or weight.

Adopting pooches from shelters or rescue organizations is also an option. Talk to staff about the dog’s energy levels and temperament to find a suitable match for your apartment lifestyle.

2. Create a Pet-Friendly Apartment Environment

Whether you’re a dog parent or a cat owner in an apartment, creating a comfortable and safe environment takes thoughtful planning and organization. Here are some essential tips to help transform your living space into a dog-friendly haven:

• Designate play and retreat areas: Establish a specific area in your apartment for play. Set up a cozy corner with a dog bed, toys and a water bowl where your dog can retreat when they need some downtime. This safe zone provides them with a sense of security.
• Use vertical space: Maximize your limited space by using vertical storage options, such as shelves for dog toys and supplies. This keeps the floor clear and organized, making it easier to maintain a clutter-free environment.
• Secure hazardous areas and items: Ensure that all cleaning supplies, chemicals and small objects that could be swallowed are out of your dog’s reach. Install baby gates or keep doors closed to block access to potentially dangerous areas. Tie up long curtain cords and secure electrical wires to prevent chewing. Keep breakable items and valuables out of reach to avoid accidents.
• Remove toxic plants: Identify and remove any houseplants that may be toxic to dogs.
• Minimize noise exposure: Use soundproofing curtains or soft furnishings to dampen sound. Consider using white noise or calming music to help mask outside noises that may trigger barking.
• Groom regularly: Follow a regular grooming routine to minimize shedding and maintain cleanliness to keep your living space tidy.
• Give toys: Invest in food-dispensing toys and puzzles to keep your doggy mentally stimulated to reduce boredom and prevent destructive behavior.

3. Establish an Apartment Dog Training Plan and Routine

Dog care in apartments involves regular exercise and training. A consistent routine and exercise plan are essential for a dog’s physical and mental well-being. Try these strategies to help establish a routine that keeps your furry friend healthy and happy:

• Daily walks: Incorporate daily walks into your schedule to ensure your dog gets regular exercise. Depending on the breed, aim for two walks a day. Morning walks can energize you for the day while helping your doggy settle down when you begin your workday. Evening walks provide a great opportunity for additional exercise and potty breaks before bed.
• Indoor play: Engage your dog in indoor games like tug-of-war, fetch or hide-and-seek to keep them entertained and mentally stimulated.
• Socialization opportunities: All dogs benefit from early socialization, particularly those living in apartments. Take advantage of nearby dog parks or community spaces to allow them time to socialize with other dogs.
• Training consistency: Focus on essential commands like sit, stay and come to help manage your pup’s behavior in close quarters. Practice different commands daily and establish a consistent bathroom break schedule to help them learn when and where to go. Consider enrolling for puppy training or dog obedience classes to enhance their training and strengthen your bond.
• Consider help: If your schedule is tight, consider hiring a dog walker to ensure your dog gets regular exercise. Alternatively, coordinate playdates with neighbors who have dogs. This provides a chance for your dog to socialize and for you to connect with fellow pet owners.

4. Build a Community Around Responsible Pet Ownership

Here are some strategies to help you build a positive community around pet ownership in an apartment setting:

1. Be considerate of others: Always carry waste bags to clean up after your pup and dispose of the waste in designated bins.
2. Manage the barking: Evaluate what triggers your dog’s barking and employ training techniques to minimize disruptions.
3. Use leash etiquette: Keep your fur baby on a leash in all common areas.
4. Organize playdates: Arrange supervised playdates with other dogs in your community. These interactions can help build friendships among pets and owners.
5. Visit the vet regularly: Ensure that your pup receives regular vet checkups and up-to-date vaccinations. This is crucial for your pet’s health and the safety of other pets in the community. 
6. Lead by example: Set a high standard for responsible pet ownership by being proactive in your actions. Foster open lines of communication with your neighbors. If someone raises a concern about your pet, listen respectfully and make adjustments as needed to encourage a supportive community where everyone feels valued.

Find Pet-Friendly Apartments With Triple Crown Corporation

Are you looking for a dog-friendly rental apartment in Central PA? Explore communities that offer clear and accommodating pet policies for dog owners. Living in a pet-friendly apartment fosters a community of like-minded individuals who share a love for animals.

Start your rental search at Triple Crown Corporation. We have a variety of quality rental apartments available, most of which allow pets. Many of our apartments provide amenities like dog parks and pet-friendly walking paths.

Visit our Rental Communities page and keep an eye out for the pawprint on the image that indicates pet-friendliness.