by Jenn Hughes

Created on: June 17, 2009

Many dog breeds are perfectly suited to apartment living, so long as they are exercised on a regular basis, and are not causing noise issues with the neighbors.

Some dogs do not need tremendous exercise, and are more than happy to go on several short walks per day. Many communities now have dog parks where a dog can be taken for exercise.

Surprisingly, a great apartment dog is a retired racing greyhound. While large, these dogs are couch potatoes. They spend the majority of their time snoozing, and are perfectly happy with a nice walk a couple of times per day. They would love a good sprint, in a safely enclosed area if one is available.

On the other hand, I wouldn't recommend keeping a "busy" dog such as a border collie in an apartment may be a recipe for disaster. Working and herding breeds usually are not happy without a "job", and need to be kept occupied. If not properly exercised and occupied, your neighbors may complain about howling and barking, and your furniture may complain about being de-stuffed.

Also, be sure your lease or rental agreement permits you to keep a dog. Many do not. Sometimes an additional "pet" fee may be added to your rent or a non-refundable deposit to your lease agreement. Make sure you examine the rules carefully before obtaining an apartment pet.

So the keys to keeping an apartment dog include the activity level of the dog, the time resources for exercise that you can provide, and some consideration to whether you have a dog park or suitable place for exercise.

Some of the the other considerations that need to be made, are the same as when acquiring any pet, regardless of apartment living or not. Do you have time to care for the dog? Dogs require effort and energy. Can you afford the dog - the least of your worries is the initial cost. Vet bills, food and supplies are where the high cost of dog ownership are reflected. Can you afford to get the dog spayed or neutered? Do you have a set up for a puppy while you are away so that your apartment (or house) doesn't get destroyed.

Where will the dog go if you need to leave town for work or for the weekend? This opens up another option for apartment dwellers - there are some reputable doggie day-care organizations available that may be able to help with a pup. An apartment situation is also a great opportunity to hire a dog-walker.

In closing, it is not impossible or inconceivable to enjoy a dog within the living arrangments of an apartment. It simply requires some thought, planning and research.

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