by PK Hawk

Created on: January 23, 2010   Last Updated: April 14, 2010

I have had dogs, cats, goats, Pot Belly Pigs, and many other types of pets, and I personally would not even live in an apartment.  However; I believe there are dog breeds that are perfectly happy living in an apartment that may not have a yard. You have most likely heard of "Wee-wee Pads" and paper trained dogs and maybe even dogs trained to use a litter box.

Certainly there are many breeds of dogs not well suited to apartment life, with or without a yard or patio. While very small to medium sized breeds such as Chihuahua, Poodle and Miniature Schnauzer preferably the smaller ones, can get plenty of exercise in an apartment, and can be trained to relieve themselves on a grassy area on a patio, or a litter box, or a "Wee-Wee Pad."

There are dog breeds that definitely need way too much exercise, and running room. Border Collies come to mind, as well as the Bloodhound, Samoyed, Australian Shepherd, German Shepherd, and other working Breeds really much have their space for running, and playing with Frisbees, balls, and doggy gym equipment, as well.

If you are a "couch potato" type, you should have a dog that fits that life style as well. You must be dedicated to making sure your energetic pet gets the exercise he/she needs, or you will have a problem dog on your hands, whether you live in an apartment or a home with a yard. A bored dog will just get into trouble, digging, tearing things up, and the like. Dogs left to their own devices will not get as much exercise as they really need to stay fit, just as most people who have no one to work out with or jog with, or whatever type of exercise plan you may have do not generally have the motivation to do physical activities alone.

Herding Dog Breeds are not well suited even to living in a tract home situation. These dogs have an instinct to run and get lots of exercise, but they really need a job to do to be mentally stimulated, and interested in their activities. Breed and the individual needs of any dog is something one should take into consideration BEFORE acquiring a dog if they live in an apartment, with or without a patio yard, or condo, or a tract home. Some dogs should be where they have the run of a fenced in few acres. Don't forget, you also need to make sure that you play with your dog, and don't just leave it to it's own devices.  Any dog that gets bored or is left alone too much will very likely get into trouble of some kind. You are their pack leader, or should be. If you do not have time or desire to spend play time with a dog, you are doing a disservice to the animal, and the dog and you would be better served by your not getting a dog at all. 

There are some small dog breeds which are not suited to small yards, or apartments as well. These include Beagles and Jack Russell Terriers,  as well as any other breed that is very energetic, and loves to have the run of an open space.

Before getting any dog, do your homework, and compare breeds and sizes to your living situation. With the Internet, there is a wealth of information at your fingertips. It is also a good idea to consult with a respected dog trainer, a LEGITIMATE Pet Rescue/Adoption Person, as well as even some breeders with a very good reputation.

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