by Emma Riley Sutton

Created on: June 08, 2008   Last Updated: June 25, 2008

Apartment dwellers face many challenges, one of which is pet ownership. Many apartment complexes have restrictions (size, age, breed, etc.) as to the types of dogs they allow. For some reason, the powers that be think small dogs do best in apartments. This is not necessarily the case. Dogs that make good apartment dwelling-dogs vary in size. There are several different breeds that make excellent pets for apartment dwellers.

Basset hounds make good apartment dwellers. They are a low-maintenance breed of dog that is easy to train and get along well with others. More than likely, they will be over the weight limit of most apartments, but if you can rent with a basset hound, they will do very well. As a basset hound owner, you will not need to worry about your dog becoming aggressive with others living in the complex. They are generally quiet dogs. If your specific basset does turn out to be loud (howling would be the biggest issue), this is easily taken care of by training. They are eager to please and will do about anything to make their "person" happy. Bassets tend to be couch potatoes, but exercise is necessary. A walk around the complex once a day should be enough. The biggest concern of basset hounds living in apartments would be if you didn't live on the ground floor. As with all dogs who have long, heavy bodies and short legs, back problems can be a concern. It is recommended that you do not live above the ground level.

The Cairn terrier is another good choice for apartment dwellers. They are, usually, under the weight limit imposed by the complex. These frisky little ones are very trainable and eager to please. One of the calmest of all the terriers, they tend to quieter than most. They do require exercise, as do all dogs. A game of fetch from the couch to the hallway a few times a day is usually enough. A walk around the complex would work just as well. If your Cairn is yappy, training will be necessary. This should take just a matter of days - this dog is extremely smart and loves to do as it is told.

The Maltese is an excellent choice to have as an apartment pet. Because of their size, apartments that allow pets generally will allow them. They are quiet and easily trained. If living above the first floor, you might want to carry you Maltese up and down the stairs. Their legs may be to short to make it up the stairs on their own. Carrying this dog that should never weigh over seven or eight pounds should not be an issue. Unlike other members of their toy

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