Apartment Living Advice for Future Dog Owners

While many people attending college will have roommates to help share expenses, some students choose a four-legged friend to accompany them during their scholastic endeavors. Nothing beats that furry, friendly face greeting you when you return home after a long day spent in classrooms.

Before you go to the pet store or nearby shelter to pick out your pooch, check out this valuable advice about apartment living with your dog.

Advice for Future Dog Owners

Before You Buy

Ask yourself some important questions before you commit to the responsibility of pet ownership, especially:

• Does your apartment complex even allow pets?
• Do they have size, weight or breed restrictions?
• Are there other roommates or pets that could be affected?
• Is there a park or other nearby area for outdoor exercise?
• Do you have windows, a balcony or patio that needs to be made pet-proof?

Don’t forget all the accessories you’ll need to purchase if you don’t have them already, things like a collar, dog tags, a leash, food and water dishes. If you won’t be having your pooch groomed by a professional, you also may need a brush, nail clippers, shampoo and other grooming supplies.

Size Matters

In smaller spaces, most people will consider an equally small pet, but there are many larger dogs that are perfectly suited to apartment living. Big breeds like the Great Dane and Greyhound have found themselves on many “top ten” lists for tighter quarters.

Some other larger breeds of canines, like the Saint Bernard and Great Pyrenees have been called “mat dogs” for their seemingly endless nap times. While most dogs require around 10 to 12 hours of sleep per day, puppies and bigger breeds have been known to snooze up to 18 to 20 hours in a twenty-four hour cycle. So while you’re away at school, your best friend is likely taking a snooze.

Smaller Options

For those who would rather have a more miniature mutt, these smaller size dogs are also great as apartment dwellers. Here are four little options along with some pros and cons:

• BICHON FRISE: This adorable little bundle of joy resembles a tiny poodle, known to be lovable and quiet, but they can also be very active with high energy, especially when they are younger.
• BULLDOG: A favorite with many youngsters nowadays, this bullish breed is very sedentary, which is a really nice way of saying they’re lazy, they come in a medium package, but most of them slobber and they can drool a lot.
• CHIHUAHUA: Another tiny tot, these dogs are very intelligent, easily trained and friendly, but don’t let their small size fool you, many of them can be very loud barkers.
• SHIH-TZU: These little cuties love attention and will spend a great deal of time on your lap. They’re loyal, smart and some of them can be stubborn and all require a great deal of grooming.
• YORKSHIRE TERRIER: They’re obviously small, and they can be very adaptable and friendly, but on the downside, they can sometimes require a great deal of attention and can be a little on the yippy side.

Remember Your Responsibilities

Taking on a pet, even a small dog, comes with a tremendous amount of responsibility. Finding a good fit is one thing, but living with a dog in tight quarters means they’ll need extra love, attention and plenty of exercise. This isn’t a decision to take lightly, your pet requires regular vaccinations, shots and annual trips to the veterinarian’s office. Some cities require licensing and most dog parks and groomers will require proof of a current rabies vaccination.

However, by following these useful tips, you and your dog will be happy and healthy in your apartment. Remember to devote some time with your dog every, single day. They make great roommates when properly trained and their love, loyalty and companionship is unwavering.

Do you have any other advice for caring for a dog? Let us know about them in the comment section below.