The best dog breeds to keep in an apartment

The absence of a country house is not a reason to abandon the idea of ​​having a puppy. However, it is worth considering: what breed to choose for an apartment so that both the dog and the owner are comfortable?

Before choosing the breed of a future pet, look around: in what conditions will he live? It is not so much the size of the apartment that is important, but the area that you are willing to allocate to the dog: for sleep, food and minimal physical activity.

The life of a pet will not be limited to an apartment – you need to study the environment as well. Ideally, if there is a park, forest, or at least a walking area nearby. If there are no such places, you will have to look for an alternative – and it is better to do this in advance, and not on the first walk with your pet.

Another point: the presence of an elevator. Climbing the stairs to the fifth floor will be a beneficial physical activity for some dogs, while others will lead not only to home, but also to arthritis.

And not only in size! Consider all the nuances and remember that a problem-free dog for an apartment is:

The one who knows how and loves to bark loudly or arrange “Funny Starts” at home is definitely not suitable. With such animal habits, you will be constantly nervous and distracted. And if the pet calls you from work in this way, he will turn all the neighbors against him. Therefore, a dog prone to barking and noisy games is hardly suitable for a working owner and living in a city apartment.

This point is important not only when there are small children, other dogs or cats in the apartment. Even if you live with a dog together, in an apartment building you will not be able to avoid new acquaintances. To avoid conflicts with neighbors and their pets, make sure that the dog is not prone to aggression, or start training from childhood.

One that does not require significant costs: finances, time or nerves. Before you get a dog in the apartment, make sure that he does not need many hours of walks, expensive and difficult care, or constant discipline.

Dogs with a thick undercoat shed the most – but their long hair is relatively easy to collect, but it is already more difficult to remove the fine, stiff hairs of short-haired breeds. But the most serious “wool” problem can be host allergies. Therefore, a dog that is not prone to shedding and does not smell like a dog is a frequent wish of allergy sufferers and simply sensitive people.

Some breeds tend to be meticulous about hygiene, while others are unwittingly troublemakers. For example, keeping a Boxer or Shar Pei in an apartment almost certainly means saliva that will cover the floor, walls and furniture.

Small breeds of dogs are not in vain so popular – these pets bring a lot of emotions, and take up very little space:

Companion dog for the whole family. Yorkies are easy to train and do not require a lot of space to play. The structure of their coat is similar to human hair and does not cause allergies, but requires careful care.

Actively participate in the proposed games, but calmly endure loneliness or forced inactivity. Individuals accustomed to diapers do not need daily walking, while the Chihuahua can easily be taken on a trip.

These “teddy bears” are friendly, obedient and easily adapt to new spaces and people. And in order to prevent the appearance of allergies in the owner, Spitz should be combed out regularly.

Maltese lapdogs are remembered for their dark beady eyes and snow-white long hair. These are not just beautiful tame dogs, but devoted and emotional friends. Maltese are easily accustomed to the tray, but still need to walk.

Affectionate and gentle French lapdogs look like snowballs due to their thick fur. At the same time, they almost do not shed and have no smell – but they require daily combing.

Representatives of larger breeds can also live comfortably “within four walls”. Here are the options offered by the American Kennel Club:

Another “sofa cushions”, which nevertheless require attention and affection. This is a good choice for keeping in an apartment – but only if the dog will not be left alone often. And if the owners are ready to listen to snoring and champing.

Dwarf, small or royal – you can decide on the breed, taking into account the size of the apartment. Curly pets do not make much noise, and their fur is almost odorless.

“African barking dogs” really don’t know how to bark. They carefully monitor hygiene, wash their paws like a cat and do not smell at all. Perfect option? Yes, but only for those who can handle a stubborn and proud pet. Pay attention to the choice of breed – and your new friend will bring a lot of joy even to a small apartment!