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Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Dogs in the City

Just because you don’t have a big yard does not mean you can’t adopt a loving pet. But there are some guidelines that you want to follow when choosing your apartment dwelling pooch. Certain types of dogs do better in apartment settings—adhering to these guidelines can help you have success when choosing the perfect companion.



Look for a low to medium energy dog. Examples of low energy dogs are Cocker Spaniels, Dachshunds, Whippets and most Terriers. Dogs with low energy levels don’t need extensive walks or workouts as long as they get sufficient exercise and are not overfed. This does not mean you get to leave your dog sitting around all day—but a walk around town or a quick romp in the park is enough for low energy dogs to be satisfied.

Medium energy dogs require more time and attention. Examples of medium energy dogs are Brittany Spaniels, Akitas, Boxers and Samoyeds. While these dogs are on the larger side—they adapt well to the city life with the proper care. These dogs are able to live in good-sized apartments but they must be taken on long walks and given lots of exercise.

Toy breeds are also good—while they do have high energy they are small enough that they don’t need a lot of space to get the exercise they need. Now remember that your apartment pup can be any combination of these breeds and many more –mutts make just as good companions and normally lack the genetic defects of purebreds.

Training is also very important for having an apartment dog. And not just your basic sit, stay and roll over. In order for dogs to peacefully coexist in the city it is important for them to be very well trained on a leash. You and others around you don’t want your dog pulling you all over the crowded streets. Also you need to teach your beloved pet some noise control. You and your neighbors will be happier when your doggy uses his indoor voice.

The third most important thing to train your dog is by far the hardest. You have to teach your pup to be comfortable being alone. It can seem harsh but your dog will most likely be stuck in the apartment when you are working and you want to make the situation as free of stress as possible. The best way to train a young dog to be alone is crate training. Crate training is excellent for dogs because it gives them a safe place to be when you are not home and it also gives them a place to go and relax on their own even when you are home. Crate training must be done properly—the Humane Society offers an entire tutorial on how to properly crate train.

If you dream of having your canine companion by your side in the big city, it is possible. But remember that in order to make the experience enjoyable, it must be done right.

By Sarah Holt, ImPRessions

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