With pet’s being in about 70% of Aussie households, and living density increasing, it makes sense that there are more pets in cities and apartments. If you already live in a a city apartment with a dog or are thinking of getting a dog, there is a bit more to consider than just your average training.

Breed/s

You might think that only smaller dogs do well in apartments, but some large dogs can make excellent apartment companions. Breeds like greyhounds are a great example. They are the best couch potatoes! While there may be some dogs not suited to apartment living, remember that dogs are social animals, and some prefer companionship over a huge yard.

Whatever breed or mix you decide on, do your research. Research what your dog was bred to do and what may happen if you don’t provide a similar outlet for that job. For example, breeds that were bred to bark more will need a careful management plan, or breeds with a higher activity level (e.g. border collies) need an outlet for their energy. All dogs have their needs, so it is up to you to meet them.

Toileting

If your dog won’t have free access to a courtyard/yard, then an indoor toilet is essential. Most dogs can be trained to use an indoor toilet if you take the time.

Sound Desensitisation

Everything sounds louder in the city. Apartment living often includes hearing sounds from neighbours such as talking, doors shutting etc. Not only that, but festivals and parties are in closer proximity and things like fireworks can be very close. While dogs will habituate to some sounds, you will have to desensitise your dog from a young age to certain noises.

Fire drills

Living in an apartment building can have the added stress of desensitising your dog to the sound of fire alarms, plus navigating the stairs if lifts are out of action.

City life

Coming out of an apartment block in the city v apartment block in the suburbs can be a whole different experience. Some dogs may do better going to the car park (usually underground) and being taken out in the car rather than using the lobby/busy entrance.

Stairs and Lifts

If your apartment isn’t on the ground floor, how will your dog cope getting up and down in the building? Stairs and lifts need to be taught slowly and safely.

Window Cleaners

Something you may not have thought about is how your dog will react to window cleaners if you live in a high rise block with lots of glass! It can be a very scary thing if suddenly someone appears in a harness outside your window. Your dog can be trained to cope with this – the easiest way is window cleaners appear = treat party!

City Traffic/Roads

Your dog needs to know how to walk close to you for safety in busy traffic areas. They also need to be tolerant of loud vehicles, horns, E Bikes/scooters and courier bikes. Putting in place a desensitisation process for these types of distractions is important for city dogs, as is being proactive and giving your dog space where possible.

Socialisation to People and Other Dogs

Living in such proximity to other people and possibly other dogs can be hard. Make sure you socialise your dog in a positive way to a busy city life. Avoid too much exposure at once (flooding) but a gradual, positive process.

Barking

Also being in close proximity to neighbours, barking does need to be kept to a minimum. Teach quiet and calm behaviours from a young age, also adding a ‘quiet’ cue can be helpful. Monitoring cameras are a must for apartment dogs.

Exercise

A balance of mental and physical exercise is important. Most dogs need to be taught an off switch, so helping them relax with plenty of calming enrichment like licking, scenting and chewing is important. Having regular outdoor adventures in different environments is important too.

Our video Practical Alternatives to Walks can be useful for city dogs. 

City dogs can have an awesome life! Just include some extra consideration for their training and wellbeing.

Our Junior Out & About and Community Skills classes visit lots of busy city and suburban environments. Contact us for more info.