You, a Dog, and an Apartment

Dogs in apartments are quite common in the US and Europe and with so many people living in small rental complexes, dogs are becoming the number one choice of pet. The question is whether you are allowed to have a dog in your apartment?

It all depends on the complex rules and that of your landlord. In this guide, we take a closer look at pet ownership and apartments and whether it is a good idea to bring Fido home to an upstairs or downstairs apartment.

Why Get a Dog in an Apartment?

Apartments are about community living but perhaps you need some companionship or you’re ready to take on the responsibility of being a pet owner. No matter the reason for wanting a pet, it’s really about whether it’s permitted in your lease agreement and whether you can dedicate the time to providing what they need.

Is It Cruel to Raise a Dog in an Apartment?

Raising a dog in an apartment is a little bit different from raising them in a house. Houses come with a fenced-in yard, so dogs have more freedom and space to run around or relieve themselves outside. In apartments, particularly an upstairs unit, you need to provide these outlets for them. It also means daily walks (particularly for young dogs) to ensure they release energy and prevent boredom. Walks also help them socialize with other people, pets, and new environments making it easier for them to adjust to living in close quarters with your neighbors.

It isn’t cruel to raise dogs in apartments provided that you stick to a structured routine. Walk them every day (unless you have a geriatric dog), provide toys and socialization with other pets, and implement some discipline by teaching them the basic commands of sit, stay, and down.

If you’re still unsure about a dog in an apartment consider the words of America’s much-loved Dog Whisperer, Cesar Milan. Even dogs that live in houses with large fences need to be walked. It helps to establish you as the pack leader and provides structure and routine, which dogs need, to become well-adjusted pets. So, if you can commit to daily walks (even up to 3 a day depending on the energy levels of your dog), then you can bring Fido into the complex.

Are You Prepared to Keep It Clean?

While many landlords will allow you to have a dog, you need to be responsible and keep it clean! If you take your dog out to relieve itself, don’t leave their mess on the grass or park area where other people and children frequent. You’ll need to use paper bags to clean up after them and to toss it in the trash, away from residents.

Keeping a Pet is a Major Responsibility

Keeping pets is a responsibility no matter where you stay but depending on the type of dog you own; you’ll need to be a little bit more dedicated in an apartment.

If you have high energy breeds such as German Shepherds, Huskies, and Terriers, will you exercise them at least twice a day?

Are you prepared to spay and neuter your dogs to prevent roaming, aggression, and scratching at doors, or whining to get out? Pets also need yearly vaccinations and general vet care especially when you live in a shared complex with people and other animals.

Is Having a Pet in an Apartment Worth It?

If you love animals, you have an active lifestyle, or you seek companionship, then pets are a great addition to your family. They give you many hours of joy and comfort and they’ll motivate you to get to know your neighbors and meet new people and pets when you visit the local dog park.

There is no price on the companionship, loyalty, and love that pets can provide but to ensure you are a responsible pet owner, you need to be prepared for their care and safety. Not only for the safety of your dog but children, people, and animals that reside in the complex. With some time and effort, you can enjoy raising your dog in your apartment.