Introduction
Living in an apartment or flat with limited space does not mean you cannot have a dog. With the right breed selection, training, and commitment, dogs can thrive in apartments just as well as houses. The key factors to consider are the dog’s exercise needs, barking tendencies, and your ability to commit time for training and socialization. While large breeds with high activity levels may not be suitable, many small to medium sized dogs can do very well in an apartment setting. With some planning and preparation, you can absolutely have a happy and healthy canine companion, even in a flat.
Space Requirements
Dogs need enough space to move around, play, and lie down comfortably. The amount of space needed depends on the dog’s size. According to the USDA minimum guidelines, dogs must have enough space to turn, stand up, lie down, and fully extend their limbs [1]. Typical recommendations are:
- Small dogs under 25 lbs: at least 60 sq ft
- Medium dogs 25-50 lbs: at least 80 sq ft
- Large dogs 50-100 lbs: at least 100 sq ft
- Giant dogs over 100 lbs: at least 120 sq ft
These are minimums, so more space is ideal if possible. The space should be open floor space and does not include furniture. If keeping multiple dogs, the space must be increased proportionally. An apartment balcony typically provides 100-300 sq ft of outdoor space which can supplement indoor areas.
[1] USDA Guidelines
Breed Considerations
When choosing a dog breed for an apartment, it’s important to consider their size, exercise needs, barking tendencies, and temperament. Some of the best dog breeds for apartments include:
Basset Hound – Known for being mellow and loving. They only need moderate exercise and do well in small spaces according to the AKC.
French Bulldog – Small, low energy dogs that only need one short walk per day. They don’t bark much and do well in apartments as noted by Highland Canine.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – Affectionate and gentle, they adapt well to apartment living with minimal exercise needs. Their calm temperament is ideal for small spaces.
Greyhound – Surprisingly low energy indoors, they only require short daily walks. Greyhounds are quiet and mannerly making them great apartment pets according to Chewy.
Other top breeds include Miniature Pinscher, Havanese, Maltese, Pug, and Shih Tzu. Focus on small to medium sized dogs with minimal exercise needs and quiet temperaments.
Potty Training
Potty training a puppy who lives in an apartment with a balcony requires patience and consistency. The key is to start early and establish a routine. Here are some tips:
Designate a specific potty spot on the balcony using a puppy pad or fake grass pad. Take your puppy to this spot first thing in the morning, after naps, playtime, meals, and every 30 minutes to an hour throughout the day. Praise and give treats when they go in the right spot.
Consider attaching a sod patch or puppy litter box to the balcony railing to give your puppy a designated potty spot. This contains the mess while training.
Use a crate when you can’t directly supervise your pup. Dogs naturally avoid soiling in their sleeping area, so crating helps teach bladder control.
Clean all accidents thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to remove odors that might attract the puppy back to the same spot.
Be patient and consistent. Potty training takes time. Keep your puppy confined to her potty area on the balcony until she is fully trained.
Use positive reinforcement, never punishment. Remain calm and be consistent with taking your puppy to her designated potty spot.
Consider indoor potty options like synthetic grass patches or pee pads for very young puppies who can’t wait as long. Gradually transition to going outside as they gain control.
Check with your apartment complex before installing anything permanent on the balcony. Make sure potty setups are safe and won’t allow waste to blow around.
Exercise Needs
Dogs need daily exercise, even when living in an apartment. Lack of exercise can lead to boredom, anxiety, and destructive behaviors. There are creative ways to meet a dog’s exercise needs inside an apartment:
Create an indoor obstacle course using furniture, tunnels, low hurdles and other objects from around the apartment. Rotate the layout to keep it interesting and challenging for your dog (Vital Vet).
Play games like fetch down a hallway or up and down stairs. Use toys that your dog can chase and return to you.
Provide interactive puzzle toys that dispense treats or kibble as your dog plays with them, stimulating their mind and body.
Take your dog up and down apartment building stairwells for short bursts of cardio exercise a few times a day.
Go for regular short walks (10-15 minutes) around your apartment building or block 2-3 times a day if possible.
Consider getting a dog treadmill for your apartment so your dog can get more intensive cardio exercise.
Mental stimulation through training sessions and games will also help tire out your dog.
With creativity and commitment, apartment dogs can get sufficient physical and mental exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Barking & Noise
Dogs barking can be a major concern for apartment dwellers. Excessive and uncontrolled barking can disturb neighbors and lead to noise complaints. Some tips to reduce barking in an apartment dog:
- Provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Dogs bark when bored or pent up energy. Make sure your dog gets adequate walks, play time, and training.
- Use treats and positive reinforcement to reward quiet behavior. When your dog barks, interrupt with a command like “quiet”, followed by a treat when they stop.
- Look for triggers that cause barking like sounds or sights and work to desensitize your dog.
- Consider a citronella or ultrasonic bark collar which can deter barking through scent or sound.
- Speak to your vet about anti-anxiety medication if your dog has separation anxiety.
- Muzzle training is an option to physically prevent barking.
- Soundproof your apartment by sealing gaps under doors or hanging acoustic foam panels.
If your neighbors complain about barking, apologize and let them know you are actively working on training. Be patient, as changing behavior takes time. Seek advice from a professional trainer or behaviorist if needed. With commitment and consistency, you can curb excessive barking.
Sources:
https://www.apartmentguide.com/blog/neighbors-dog-wont-stop-barking/
[VENT] New Neighbour (apartment) has a yappy dog barking all day, as a fellow dog owner annoyed but sympathetic, what do I do?
byu/Flamesilver_0 inDogtraining
Costs
Owning a dog in an apartment can incur additional costs beyond just caring for the dog itself. Many apartments charge monthly pet fees known as “pet rent” to have a dog. According to ApartmentGuide.com, pet rent often ranges from $10-50 per month[1]. On top of pet rent, there is usually an upfront pet deposit or fee charged when moving in, which can be $200-500[1]. Make sure to factor these recurring costs into your dog budget.
Additionally, dogs can potentially cause property damage if bored or anxious. Chewed baseboards, scratched doors, and accidents on the carpets are possibilities. As a renter, you may be responsible for covering these costs. Having pet insurance or an emergency fund is recommended.
Owning a dog also makes moving between apartments more challenging and expensive. Many apartments have breed restrictions or weight limits that may preclude your dog. Pet-friendly apartments in desirable areas are competitive, and may require additional fees and deposits.
Socialization
Socialization is very important for dogs living in apartments. Since they don’t get as much exposure in a smaller living space, it’s crucial they are properly socialized from an early age. The Reddit puppy101 forum recommends setting up puppy play dates with other friendly, vaccinated dogs so the pup can learn good social skills. You can also introduce your dog to friendly dogs in your apartment building, but make sure to ask the owner first, as advised by Bark Buildings. Take your puppy to as many new places as possible to get them accustomed to sights, sounds, and smells. Attend a puppy kindergarten class for structured socialization. Be cautious when introducing your dog to new dogs on walks, since you don’t know if those dogs are friendly.
Proper socialization from a young age will ensure your apartment dog grows into a well-adjusted, social adult dog. Put in the extra effort while they’re a puppy so you avoid behavior issues down the line. It takes more work socializing an apartment dog, but it’s an essential part of raising a happy, healthy dog.
Alternatives
If having a dog in a flat with a balcony won’t work for you, there are some great alternative pets to consider that may be better suited to apartment living:
Cats are often a top choice for apartments since they are lower maintenance, make less noise, and require less space than dogs. According to The Zebra, cats only need about 30 square feet of living space.
Small pets like hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, ferrets, birds, fish, reptiles, and rodents can also thrive in small spaces. According to PetMD, their enclosures and exercise needs are minimal compared to dogs. Just be sure to research each species’ specific care requirements.
For those who still want dog companionship, visiting a local dog park or volunteering to walk dogs at an animal shelter can be great alternatives. You can get your “dog fix” while avoiding the full commitment of having one at home.
At the end of the day, do your research and be realistic about the constraints of your living situation. There are plenty of wonderful pet options for apartment dwellers with the right prep and expectations.
Conclusion
Having a dog in an apartment or flat with a balcony can work with the right breed and proper commitment to training and exercise. The key factors to consider are:
- Space – Make sure your home and balcony provide enough room for exercise and play.
- Breed – Consider size, energy level, and barking tendencies when selecting a breed.
- Potty Training – Be prepared to put in consistent effort with taking your dog outside frequently.
- Exercise – Walks, games, and activities are essential for an apartment dog.
- Barking – Training and stimulation can help minimize nuisance barking.
- Socialization – Ensure your dog is comfortable around people and other animals.
- Costs – Account for expenses like food, supplies, veterinary care.
With proper selection and commitment, many dogs can thrive in apartments. Be sure to honestly evaluate if you can provide what any dog needs in terms of time, attention and care.