Part 5: How To Have A Puppy In An Apartment!
Having a puppy in an apartment requires a lot of time and patience. A puppy in an apartment has a set of challenges for both novice and experienced dog owners alike. Puppies need a lot of potty breaks and exercise, which can be a challenge in an apartment. But, with some extra patience, you can have a healthy, happy puppy.
First: Speak to your landlord, to be sure that pets are allowed in your apartment. Many apartment complexes have size, weight and breed restrictions. The best thing is to know what is allowed in advance to prevent any problems like possible eviction in the future. If necessary, sign any documents that are required and pay any pet deposits before bringing your puppy home.
Second: Decide on the right breed for your apartment. Too often large breeds are not good for apartment life because of their size, and active breeds such as herding and hunting dogs are too hyper for apartment living. Small to medium breeds who are calmer such as whippets, Chihuahuas and Pomeranians are well-suited for apartments.
Third: Try to crate train your puppy as soon as possible. Put a nice fluffy dog bed in the crate, and have the crate in your bedroom. Put the puppy in his crate at bedtime and close the door. There may be some whining and crying for a few nights, but he will learn the crate is his own safe, comfy sleeping space.
Fourth: Always have a lot of different puppy toys. Dogs in apartments have a tendency to find other things to chew on, because of boredom. So, have lots of toys to keep him busy.
Fifth: Make sure that your puppy goes outside for lots of potty breaks. Puppies should go out at least once an hour to prevent accidents. Bring your puppy to a nice grassy place, out of the way of foot traffic, and always have him on a leash.
Always pick up any poop, as it be a good neighbor.
Sixth: Always feed your puppy a quality puppy food. Make sure that there is no filler, like corn and wheat, and has meat listed as one of the first few ingredients. Set up a schedule, spreading the meals throughout the day to minimize digestive upset. Make sure to let the puppy go for walk to potty after every meal.
Seventh: Let your puppy exercise in short periods during the day. Puppies have a lot of energy and the more play times you have together, will keep him busy and out of trouble.
Let him out for walks and play with and his favorite toy. Let him run around to burn some of that energy he has.
Last but not least: Grooming your puppy at least once a week is very important. You may have been charged a security deposit because of your pet and keeping your puppy groomed will help you keep the apartment and landlord happy. Brushing him prevents mats and trimming his nails will keep you and your puppy happy.
Things that you will need:
- Crate
- Dog bed
- Toys
- Collar
- Leash
- Housebreaking pads
- Puppy food
- Grooming tools
Tip:
- Let your neighbors meet your new puppy. This way it will keep him from barking when he sees them in the hall or walking past your apartment door.
Warning:
- Always have your puppy on a leash, never let your puppy go alone outside your apartment. He may get injured or stolen, and you could also face an eviction notice for violating pet policies.
I Hope That You Are Enjoying Our Series:
Let’s Talk New Puppy!
I hope that you will stay turned for our next episode:
Part 6: How To Travel With Your Puppy!
