We posted a blog in August of last year, about how to find the right dog for apartment living. In it we provided some tips on what to consider before getting a dog, such as daily schedule, children, environment, etc. We cannot stress enough how important it is to be completely aware of all the information before deciding to care for an animal. So here are a few more tips before you bring Beethoven home.
Tip 1: Are there any size or weight restrictions on dogs within your apartment community? A majority of apartment homes allow dogs between 30-50 lbs. Very few allow those above the 50 lb. marker. So you need to take that into account before you go searching for your animal. I’ve also heard that in many communities prefer heavier dogs live on the first floor. So be sure to read your lease.
Tip 2: How much exercise does the dog need? This goes hand-in-hand with your daily lifestyle as we mentioned in our previous blog. Are you able to give a high energy dog the necessary attention and physical exercise it requires? Or would you prefer a low-energy dog that could make due with exercise inside an apartment? Research various dog breeds to find out which would be most suitable for you.
Tip 3: Is the breed’s temperament a good match for you? The level of energy is an element in the breed’s temperament. A Chihuahua, for example, has a high level of energy and enjoys activities with its owner. However, other breeds are more mellow and would require less on your part to entertain. Again, research would need to be done to determine which breed is best for you.
Tip 4: Are you prepared for the costs of dog ownership? We touched on this in last year’s article about finding the right dog, but it deserves to be mentioned again because I cannot stress enough how important it is to be informed. Assume the bare minimum for owning a dog is around a $1 a day. So figure about $365 a year worth of expenses with food, vet visits, shots, toys, hygiene care, etc. that you would have to pay.
Tip 5: Have you considered what happens to your dog if you can’t care for him/her? A dog is a responsibility. He or she is going to be around for up to 15 years. Before you take on that responsibility, think about what would happen if you suddenly find you can’t take care of him/her. What would you do? Go to the shelter, find someone to adopt, what? If you know that taking on a dog is a responsibility and not something you can give back, then maybe you’ll be more aware of what’s in store.
The main reason why animals are brought to shelters is because people are not informed of the lifestyle change that comes with caring for an animal. They will require exercise, money, time, patience, etc. So do the research. You will be a lot happier loving a dog you’re ready for than saying good-bye to one you’re not.