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So can Staffies live in apartments? The short answer is yes — but it depends on the individual dog’s needs. If you can provide your Staffy with enough exercise and mental enrichment, they’ll be just fine living in an apartment with you. But remember that puppies can be a lot of work, so be prepared for the commitment!
Is It Fair to Keep a Staffy in an Apartment?
There is no denying that Staffies are amazing companions, but is it fair to keep them in an apartment? Some people believe that dogs need a lot of room to run about and play, and that they can’t get the activity they require living in an apartment.
Other people say that you can give your dog all the exercise they need in a small space — you just need to be a bit creative sometimes. At the end of the day, it’s about how much extra time and effort you can put into the care of your dog.
Image: Martin Dalsgaard on Unsplash
The Cons of Living in an Apartment with a Staffy
In order to live comfortably with a Staffy in an apartment, you’ll want to think about how your lifestyle will be impacted by noise and dirt.
⚠️ The Challenges to Consider
Mess
Dogs can be messy. They may track dirt into your apartment, chew on furniture and other items (especially puppies), and they will definitely shed hair. In a smaller space, this is more noticeable and harder to escape.
Toilet trips — every single day
Possibly the biggest con: you need to take your Staffy out to pee and poo multiple times a day, every day, no matter how you feel or how bad the weather is. If you have a balcony, dog grass toilets or dog pee pads can help — they require more cleaning, but can be a lifesaver when you genuinely can’t get outside.
How Can I Exercise My Staffy If I Live in an Apartment?
You don’t need a lot of space to provide your Staffy with plenty of exercise. Dogs need mental enrichment just as much as physical exercise, and there are a lot of stimulating games you can play with your dog in small spaces.
Image: Outward Hound | Dog Puzzle Toy | Available from $35.80 | View on Amazon →
You can also take your Staffy for a walk to the closest park, or hire a professional dog walker to take your dog out while you’re at work. There are plenty of ways to keep your Staffy happy and healthy in a small apartment — it just takes a bit of creativity and extra effort.
The Pros of Living in an Apartment with a Staffy
There are many pros to living with a Staffy. First and foremost, dogs provide companionship and love — they can help reduce stress and make you feel happy and relaxed. Additionally, dogs can be great for your health: studies have shown that dog owners tend to be more active, and that dog owners have lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels than those who don’t own dogs.
Keep in mind that puppies can be a handful, and that dogs go through a teenage period too — so be prepared for the possibility of many ups and downs on your journey of sharing your life with a furry friend.
So, Can Staffies Live in Apartments?
The answer is ultimately up to you. If you think the pros of having a Staffy in an apartment outweigh the cons, then go ahead — just be sure to consider your lifestyle and whether there’s room for a 10+ year furry commitment.
And remember — if things start getting too messy or noisy, seek out the help of a qualified dog trainer. A lot of the time, some simple training can save a Staffy from having to be re-homed.
