Owning a big dog in an apartment can be a fantastic experience, offering companionship, loyalty, and endless cuddles. But, you need to be realistic about choosing the right breed. Not all large dogs are cut out for apartment life. Some breeds may be prone to excessive barking, destructive behavior, or require an extraordinary amount of exercise. This guide will explore some of the best big dog breeds suited for apartment living.
Key Considerations for Big Dogs in Apartments
Before diving into specific breeds, let’s consider some key factors that will determine if a big dog is a good fit for your apartment lifestyle:
Energy Levels: Big dogs need exercise, but some are more energetic than others. Choose a breed with moderate energy levels that can be satisfied with daily walks and playtime in your apartment. Avoid breeds known for being hyperactive or needing extensive outdoor runs.
Barking Tendencies: Some breeds are naturally more vocal than others. If you live in a building with close neighbors, consider a breed known for being relatively quiet. Look for breeds that are easily trained to bark only when necessary.
Trainability: A well-trained dog is essential for apartment living. Choose a breed known for being intelligent and eager to please, making them easier to train and manage. A well-trained dog is less likely to engage in destructive behavior or disrupt your neighbors.
Shedding: Large dogs can shed a lot. If you’re not a fan of dog hair, consider breeds that are hypoallergenic or shed minimally.
Size and Space: Even if a breed is generally considered apartment-friendly, remember that a large dog still needs enough space to move around comfortably. Ensure you have adequate space for your dog to lie down, play, and have some room to walk around.
Apartment-Friendly Big Dog Breeds
Now, let’s explore some big dog breeds that are generally considered suitable for apartment life:
1. Great Dane
These gentle giants are known for their calm and loving nature. While they’re big, they’re surprisingly low-energy for their size. They’re content with short walks and playtime inside your apartment. However, be mindful that they can shed quite a bit, so regular grooming is essential.
2. Bullmastiff
These powerful dogs are often mistaken for being aggressive, but they’re actually quite laid-back and enjoy lounging. They’re not excessive barkers, making them great for apartment living. Just remember to provide them with daily walks and some mental stimulation.
3. Greyhound
Greyhounds are known for their speed, but they’re surprisingly low-energy when not at the racetrack. They’re relatively quiet and often prefer to cuddle on the couch rather than run around. They require short bursts of exercise, like a couple of quick walks each day, and plenty of napping time.
4. Mastiff
Mastiffs are known for their calm and gentle demeanor, making them great for apartment living. They enjoy quiet time and are typically content with short walks and playtime indoors. However, they’re known for being droolers, so be prepared for some drool cleanup.
5. Irish Wolfhound
These elegant dogs are known for their gentle and affectionate personalities. They’re relatively low-energy and enjoy leisurely walks. They’re also quiet dogs, making them a good choice for apartment living. However, their size requires you to have enough space for them to move around comfortably.
6. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are known for their calm and gentle nature, making them great family dogs. They’re not excessive barkers and enjoy leisurely walks. Their size requires ample space, but they’re often content to relax indoors.
7. Bernese Mountain Dog
These beautiful dogs are known for their gentle and affectionate personalities. They’re not high-energy and enjoy spending time with their families. They can be a little more vocal than some other breeds on this list, but with proper training, they can be taught to bark only when necessary.
Tips for Big Dogs in Apartments
Once you’ve chosen your furry companion, here are some tips for making apartment living a success for you and your big dog:
Training and Socialization: Training is essential for any dog, but even more so for large breeds in an apartment setting. Enroll your dog in obedience classes, teach them basic commands, and ensure they’re well-socialized to prevent any behavioral issues.
Exercise: Even though your dog may not need marathon runs, ensure they get enough exercise. Take them for daily walks, play fetch or other games in your apartment, or use a dog walker when you can’t.
Mental Stimulation: Large dogs need mental stimulation as well as physical exercise. Provide puzzle toys, interactive games, and training sessions to keep their minds engaged.
Noise Reduction: Consider using soundproofing methods or white noise machines to help reduce noise from outside and prevent your dog from becoming overly reactive to sounds.
Potty Training: Potty training is crucial for apartment living. Take your dog out frequently, especially first thing in the morning and last thing at night.
Finding the right big dog for apartment living takes some research and consideration. However, with the right breed, training, and a bit of effort, you can enjoy a wonderful life with a large and loving companion in your apartment.