Are you looking for some tips for living in an apartment with your dog?
Anyone who lives in an apartment and wants to adopt a dog always wonders: is an apartment comfortable enough for a dog?
Despite what many think, taking care of a dog in an apartment is feasible. And you can provide a dog with a happy, fulfilled life while living in an apartment. With some proactive measures, your dog will be sure to thrive in your apartment.
Check out some tips below for living in an apartment with your dog:
Choose a Suitable Breed
When choosing a dog to adopt or buy, you need to select a breed of dog that fits your lifestyle and will do well in the size of your apartment. You must assess the temperament of the breed as well. Some breeds are quieter and lazier, and are therefore better suited for apartments.
In addition, it is recommended that the size of your dog is compatible with the size of your apartment. A large dog can suffer from anxiety and lack of space in a very small apartment.
You can have a large dog or a high energy pup in an apartment. Just be sure that they expend their energy every day.
Read More: How Long Does Puppyhood Last?
Read More: The Best Dog Breeds in NYC
Teach your Dog how to be Alone
When living in a small apartment, the last thing you want is for your dog to experience separation anxiety. When your dog experiences separation anxiety, they may cry, whine, or bark loudly, causing neighbors to complain. They may also destroy your furniture. Thus, it is imperative to prepare your pup to be alone.
You should practice intentional separation from your dog if you do work from home. Have them hang out in a separate room from you, and leave them alone for small bits of time. In addition, have a designated space for them, such as the crate, where you leave them when alone. You can give them their favorite chewables, such as bully sticks or yak cheese, to keep them occupied.
Read More: Teaching Your Puppy how to be Alone
Read More: How to Prevent Separation Anxiety in Dogs
Provide Daily Walks
Apartments in big cities like New York City don’t have much space for dogs to play. Therefore, it is essential that you encourage your dog to expend energy outside of the home. Daily walks, multiple times per day, are important for your pup’s mental stimulation and physical health.
Establish a routine of walks so your pup can exercise, socialize with other dogs and people, and explore their outside environment. If you work long hours, your pup has a lot of energy, or your pup simply needs more socialization, consider hiring a Dog Walker.
Read More: Do I Need a Dog Walker?
Read More: Benefits of a Structured Walk
Desensitize Your Dog to Loud Noises
Many owners don’t realize it, but loud noises, such as fireworks, trains, or thunderstorms, can cause a variety of anxious behaviors in their dog. These anxious behaviors include barking, excessive panting, and destructive behaviors such as chewing, digging, or scratching.
In order to prevent your pup from developing a strong fear of loud noises, you must desensitize your dog to these sounds from a young age. Expose your dog to a low level of noise in a controlled environment. As your dog gets used to it, you can gradually increase the volume and amount of time exposed until he learns to tolerate it. Do this for all different types of sounds such as other dogs barking, children screaming, traffic, fireworks, and thunderstorms.
For best results, we recommend consulting with a professional who specializes in canine behavior.
Read More: Noise Anxiety in Dogs
Read More: Why are Dogs Scared of Fireworks?
Are you Ready to Live in an Apartment with your Dog?
Living in an apartment with your dog can be a fun experience for both you and your pup. By following some basic guidelines outlined above, you can raise a happy and healthy dog in an apartment!
Dog Walker Astoria
If you require help providing socialization opportunities for your dog and you live in Astoria, you can enroll your pup in daily Socialization Walks with Buster and Whiskers. We offer daily 1-hour Socialization Walks. If your pup is under-socialized, we will work with them to help desensitize them and get them ready for our Group Socialization Walks. You must live within our Astoria coverage area. In addition, your dog must be up-to-date on all required vaccinations. Laying a strong foundation in socialization is the best gift you can give your pup for a long and happy life together!
Buster and Whiskers is The #1 Dog Walking Service in Astoria, NY. If your dog needs more exercise or social interaction, enroll your pup in daily Socialization Walks with us. Contact us for a professional and reliable Dog Walker in Astoria! Follow us on Instagram!
