Many people have an affinity for large canines but, if you live in a compact space, it is wise to consider if such an arrangement is suitable for dogs of large breeds.
In general, large dogs can live in apartments and small spaces, some breeds do better than others. Providing appropriate for the breed amount of exercise is essential. Consider individual factors, such as the dog’s mobility issues or bad joints, for example, if you have to walk up and down several flights of stairs. A patio or balcony is a great feature because dogs enjoy the fresh air and observing the outdoors.
Although your dog’s specific breed and background are important factors, there are apartment features that are relevant for all dogs, too.
DOG CHARACTERISTICS TO CONSIDER
Puppies In An Apartment
Puppies can be a little harder to maintain in an apartment than in a house with an attached yard for several reasons:
- Very young pets have high levels of energy
- Potty training is easier if you have a yard
- They need to step outside more frequently to go potty even when already potty-trained
- They are more likely to have soiling accidents
Of course, age-related challenges are temporary, they resolve as the dog matures.
Energy Level
As a rule, large breeds are calmer than little pooches but some breeds are more energetic than others. Bernese Mountain Dogs, for instance, are famously dynamic and bubbly and they tend to remain puppy-like well into their grown-up years.
If you are welcoming a grown-up dog, observe how energetic the animal is. If your new pet is coming from a shelter, the staff and volunteers might share some great insights with you about the dog’s personality and temperament.
If the large dog is very athletic and high-energy, a small space could be more challenging but the issue can be addressed by taking your pet outside more.
Joint Or Mobility Issues
Many large dogs develop hip dysplasia or arthritis, and issues tend to accumulate as the dog ages. Animals with these common problems usually have some pain and eventually could have a hard time walking up and down the stairs.
Other health problems, including respiratory or cardiac health concerns, could also pose a challenge in this respect. Many brachycephalic, or flat-faced breeds, struggle with stairs due to general poor tolerance of physical activities.
This is not a problem if the house you live in has an elevator or you live on the ground floor but just an issue to consider you have to walk up and down the stairs regularly.
Barking, Howling, And Other Vocal Issues
Some breeds of dogs are more prone to communicating vocally, although in general small breeds are the ones known to bark more, for a variety of reasons.
It is an important factor to consider since you have to be particularly mindful of nuisance noises if you live in an apartment. It is important to train a young pup early on to be more reserved.
An advantage of adopting a grown dog from a shelter or another home is that you are likely to have some information about the animal. Typically, you can also observe how the dog behaves around you as a new person and in general.
If a pet develops separation anxiety, that is an issue that could bring up several behavioral concerns, including barking or howling.
Behavior Around Other Pets Or Strangers
Being courteous to others is important for any dog but it is especially crucial for pups living near other people. Your dog is likely to pass by multiple people on the way outside, for example, some could be your neighbors, and others might be strangers.
Proper socialization is very important for all dogs but it is particularly essential for a large, imposing, pet who lives close to other people, some of whom might be afraid of dogs.
Regardless of the breed, dogs should be exposed to other animals and people from puppyhood. Some large breeds are known to be calm and friendly, and Golden Retrievers and Saint Bernards are prime examples. Others, for example, Akitas, could be just as sweet and sociable but might have more to prove to a stranger, given their breed.
Again, a pup coming from a shelter or another owner – no matter the breed – often comes with some valuable information about the animal’s personality.
Large Breeds That Do Well Apartments
Of course, there is a lot of variation within a breed and all dogs are individuals but some large canines are known to be happy in compact spaces.
- Golden Retriever
- Saint Bernard
- Bernese Mountain Dog
- New Foundland
- Greyhound
- English Mastiff
- English Bulldog
Of course, all these dogs still need exercise and there are some features of your apartment that you should consider.
Apartment Features And Useful Routines
Most dogs adapt to living in an apartment very well, provided that they have the support of the owner and the exercise they need. Issues, such as separation anxiety and health problems as the dog ages, can arise. Yes, such issues might be easier to manage if you live in a house with a yard but, genuinely, the living space is not the most important factor at all.
Your attention, daily exercise and ways to entertain the dog when you are away, are the most important variables.
Provide Opportunities For Physical Activity
This is an essential aspect of care, even for dogs known as couch potatoes. A dog that goes on daily walks, and occasional hikes and spends a good amount of time playing outdoors is likely to be content in a compact space, regardless of the dog’s breed and size.
If you spend long hours away from home, do your best to walk the dog before you leave for work and shortly after you return. Doing so will help overcome restlessness, boredom, and, particularly, separation anxiety.
Of course, exercise might need to be modified as your pet ages or develops health problems.
Air Circulation
Large dogs often struggle in hot climates, and not being able to sneak out into a yard could make this more challenging.
Not every home has an AC but try to make sure that the temperature is appropriate for your likely heat-sensitive large dog and that there is proper air circulation. A non-toxic cooling pad is also a good option, and it is easy to take on trips to help your pet tolerate summer heat when traveling in the car.
Patio Or Balcony
A patio or a balcony is just a nice feature for a dog, to add some variety and things to observe.
Unless your pup is reactive to noises or movement, the dog is likely to enjoy watching pretty much anything – squirrels, passers-by, other dogs, and so on. Being able to spend some time on the balcony allows for getting some fresh air too, in addition to preventing boredom.
Floor
This is more relevant for some dogs than others – linoleum or hardwood floors are easier to clean than carpets. You are likely to have to clean up dog hair and occasional pet-related messes. Puppies are prone to potty accidents, too, and not having too many carpets is usually helpful.
Dog Park On-Site Or Nearby
Many apartments include dog walking areas on-site site as a fabulous amenity, great for quick outings on a busy day.
Having options for walks with your pet near your home is going to be one of the most important features of your apartment. You are going to spend some time walking your pup regularly, so having somewhere to go – a place you and your pet enjoy – is another essential feature.
To Conclude
Most dogs of large breeds do well in apartments, as long as they get enough exercise, and getting to and from the apartment is not a challenge for them. Elevators or living on the ground floor might be important for an aging dog with bad joints, for example.
A very young large dog might be clumsy in a compact space, and keep in mind that you would need to take a puppy out to go potty frequently. In fairness, a puppy of any breed would need frequent outings.
