Dogs are known as our best friends for good reason — loyal, loving, and great companions. But can dogs live in apartments? It’s a question many people have, and the answer isn’t always straightforward. Here’s an honest look at both sides.
Is It Fair to Keep a Dog in an Apartment?
There is no denying that dogs are amazing companions, but is it fair to keep them in an apartment? Some people argue that dogs need plenty of space to run around and play, and that they can’t get the exercise they need in a small home.
Others say that with a little creativity, you can provide your dog with everything they need in a small space. There are also plenty of parks and dog-walking services available in most cities, so it’s possible to keep your furry friend happy and healthy without a backyard.
Image: Roberto Nickson on Unsplash
At the end of the day, it comes down to how committed you are to providing your dog with an adequate amount of both mental and physical exercise. Arguably, some dogs who live on acreage get less exercise and mental enrichment than a dog who lives in an apartment with an owner who puts a lot of effort into making it work.
That said, it’s important to consider that getting a dog is a 10+ year commitment, and there are some real cons to living with a dog in an apartment — so let’s take a closer look.
The Cons of Living in an Apartment with a Dog
In order to live comfortably with a dog in an apartment, you’ll want to think about how your lifestyle will be impacted by noise and mess.
⚠️ The Challenges to Consider
Mess
Dogs can be messy. They may track dirt and mud into the apartment, chew on furniture (especially puppies), and most dogs shed a lot of hair all year long. In a smaller space, this is harder to escape.
Toilet trips — every single day
Possibly the biggest con: you need to take your dog out to pee and poo multiple times a day, every day, regardless of how you feel or what the weather is doing. 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.
Noise and neighbours
Not all dogs bark a lot, but some do — and in an apartment with thin walls, a barking dog can cause neighbour problems quickly. The good news is that more often than not there’s a reason why dogs bark, and training can help to curb this behaviour significantly.
What Dog Breeds Can Live in Apartments?
Some people think that only small, low-shedding dog breeds can live in apartments — but this isn’t the case. Many medium and large sized dogs do just fine in apartments as long as their needs for exercise and space are met.
It all depends on your lifestyle. If you have a particular breed in mind, think through what your daily and weekly routines would actually look like, then ask a qualified dog trainer, vet, rescue organisation, or breeder for their honest feedback before committing.
How Can I Exercise My Dog If I Live in an Apartment?
You don’t need a lot of space to provide your dog 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.
Dog playing with a puzzle toy
You can also take your dog 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 a dog happy and healthy in an apartment — it just takes a bit of creativity and extra effort.
The Pros of Living in an Apartment with a Dog
There are many benefits to sharing your home with a dog. First and foremost, dogs provide companionship and love — they can help reduce stress and make you feel happy and relaxed. Additionally, dogs are 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 many ups and downs on your journey of sharing your life with a furry friend.
So, Can Dogs Live in Apartments?
The answer is ultimately up to you. If you think the pros outweigh the cons for your specific lifestyle, then go ahead — just be sure to consider what type of dog would be best suited to living in an apartment with you, and be honest about what your daily routine can realistically support.
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 dog from having to be re-homed.
