Thu, May 24 2012

The Best Dog Breeds For Apartment Living

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What Type Of Dog Suits Your Lifestyle?

altAnimals are a wonderful addition to a family, whether it's a full house of parents and children, or a young couple in a small space. Dogs are especially fun to have around as companions; they liven up their surroundings with their friendly manner and high energy.

Apartment dwellers who have already done their research on the pet policies of their building and are looking to make the long term investment have other factors to consider as well.

Space for food/toys/playtime, availability for training and exercise, general maintenance, barking frequency to name a few. Pet ownership is rewarding and you want to ensure that you've made the right choice. If you're thinking of adopting or purchasing a dog but you're a little clueless about which breeds are best for apartment living, here are some options:      

Bichon Frise
This pup is small, cute, and hypoallergenic. The lack of shedding is good for people who are sensitive to dog fur, whether it's the owners or visitors. The Bichon is also playful, mildly tempered, and can be trained quite easily at an early age. 

Pomeranian 
The Pomeranian is in the 'toy dog' breed as it is remarkably tiny and sort of resembles a teddy bear. There's no denying that the pom-poms have cuteness so far off the charts that you almost want to  squeeze it out of them. These bouncy little fur balls are merry and energetic as can be, but they do require a little extra effort and care. Their fur needs daily grooming because it gets long and can mat, plus they are prone to separation anxiety unless trained young to spend time alone. A walk per day is plenty of exercise for these dogs. They have a tendency to be protective of their owners so be mindful of that in training them to interact with people and other animals. This is a good pick for people who are looking for a pet they can play with often and can live happily with in an apartment.    

Schnoodle
Schnauzer meets poodle, a mixed breed that comes in all sizes and is hypoallergenic. Characteristics and appearance vary, with some resembling poodles and others schnauzers. Do a little "how much is that doggy in the window" shopping to see which one jumps out at you. On that note, the schnoodle's temperament is said to be quite playful all the way up into its later years. They can be a bit excitable at times, which is why potential owners should be looking for some fun and ongoing activity with this dog. Daily walks and toys are certainly in order!  

Scottish Terrier 
For a dog, they move on cat's feet, these little guys. Scottish Terriers are quick and always on the go, however they're not rambunctious and are actually fairly reserved, which is conducive to a quieter household. They are territorial and require a bit of training to keep them from assuming that all visitors are intruders. Scotties do not bark excessively or much at all, which make them great pets for thin walled confinement.

English Bulldog 
Don't let the miffed mug fool you. English bulldogs are friendly and easygoing pups with a mostly pleasant, docile nature. They are excellent for apartment living as they do not require strenuous physical activity. However, even though their lazy nature may be a blessing for loft-living owners, it can sometimes present an issue when it comes to taking them out to use the bathroom. These dogs are happiest in high-rises with elevators. Walk-up's aren't really their thing...

 

Image from MorgueFile


Courtney Gilmour
About the author:

Courtney is a published writer, stand-up comic, and shameless Internet enthusiast. She holds a double bachelors degree in English Literature and Communication Media Studies, specializing in semiotic theory, however she doesn't get Shakespeare and has never won a game of Scrabble. Currently she lives in Toronto and works as a writer for WOMAN.CA.

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dog fence
The Pomeranian is a proud, lively little dog. Intelligent, eager to learn, very loyal to its handler and family. The Pom is a wonderful companion and showdog. The breed's docile temper and affectionate nature endear it to many. They are alert, inquisitive and active: one of the most independent of the Toy breeds, they need a firm, gentle hand. Its liveliness and spirit make it well-liked by persons who do not usually care for toy dogs. They may be picky eaters. If it is properly introduced they usually get along with other dogs and household animals without any problems. Poms make good little watch dogs. Teach this dog early that it may bark a couple of times when the doorbell rings or when there are visitors, but then to keep quiet. Be very consistent about this. Poms have a delightful nature and do not cling to their handlers. This happy pup is good at learning tricks. Pomeranians need to see their owners as boss or they will become very demanding. If you allow your dog to tell YOU when and where to do things than you have a potential problem on your hands and you may not even realize it. It is not cute or smart, it's dominance and will lead to bigger problems in the future if it has not already. Because of this breeds tiny size and it's adorable Ewok looking face, there are a very high percentage of Poms who fall victim to Small Dog Syndrome, human induced behaviors, where the dog believes he is pack leader to humans. This can cause many varying degrees of behavior problems, which are NOT Pomeranian traits, but behaviors brought on by the way they are treated by the humans around them. Behaviors include, but are not limited to separation anxiety, willful, nervous, bold and sometimes temperamental, not hesitating to attack much bigger dogs. Guarding behaviors, and excessive barking as they try and tell THEIR humans what THEY want them to do. They can become reserved with strangers, barking at them excessively, and sometimes growling, snapping and biting. Because most humans treat this tiny canine in such a manner that the dog does not see them as pack leader, they are not recommended for children. However, if a Pom is given rules to follow, limits as to what they are allowed to do, daily pack walks and a calm, self-assured pack leader who displays confident assertion towards the dog, this can be a well rounded, mentally stable, trustworthy, wonderful family companion. Because of its size, it can make a good companion for an elderly person.
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