by Emme Setter

Created on: April 07, 2009   Last Updated: April 09, 2009

It is a common and lazy assumption to assume that the only way to exercise a dog is through access to a back yard, far to many dog owners use the backyard as a way to ignore their pet, not as exercise. It is undeniable that a backyard makes owning a dog easier, it is not a necessity to keeping a dog happy and healthy.

As a dog owner in New York City, I write from first hand knowledge and personal experience. My days are spent walking the streets with hundreds of other urbanites and their canine companions of all sizes and temperaments from the smallest of lap dogs to a three legged Bernese Mountain dog, various bully breeds pointers and standard poodles- usually I have one or both of my Pomeranians by my side and it proves a social experience for all involved; humans and dogs- and the unfortunate pigeon being barked at or chased. Keeping dogs happy in the city is a time consuming but worthwhile task for anyone willing to put forth the effort.

BEFORE YOU GET A DOG

Before you decide to bring a dog into your apartment, there are a few things you must take care of first. Read your lease, make sure dogs are allowed in your apartment, and if any specific breeds are banned or require special insurance.Breeds like Pitbulls and Dobermans can be very rewarding, but also carry extra risk if they come from a rescue or unknown situation. If you plan on adopting one of these, or similar breeds make sure they are allowed first.

Consider your activity level and what type of dog is appropriate for you, because you don't have a backyard dog walking will happen a few times a day so you want your general activity level to match. Keep in mind that just because it's a small dog doesn't mean its an apartment dog- breeds like the Jack Russell Terrier and Beagle don't always do well in apartment settings because of their high energy, and for the beagle, distinctive howl.

Before you choose a breed, think about your space restrictions. Apartments in the city are usually cramped and you don't want a dog that will bounce of your cramped walls or displace your couch. I live in a studio with two Pomeranians very comfortably- one dog, Chloe weighs about 10 pounds, is older and has a very low energy level. The other, Zenzie is a year old, 4 pounds and what can only be described as spastic if she where any bigger, she would overwhelm my space. When I decided to bring Zenzie into the apartment,

I decided that because I wanted a puppy, something presumably with endless amounts of energy I needed something

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