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Providing Exercise
- Daily walks are essential, even for low-energy breeds. Walk longer on weekends if less time on weekdays.
- Playing fetch down hallways or in open stairwells can burn energy.
- Puzzle toys and chews provide mental stimulation when inside.
- Off-leash dog parks are great outlets on days off work.
Training Tips
- Crate train dogs early to teach good potty habits and prevent accidents when gone.
- Use positive reinforcement to master basic commands like sit, stay, and quiet. Makes dogs better apartment residents.
- Socialize dogs young to be comfortable with strangers, noises, and other pets. Prevents unnecessary barking.
- Consider obedience training classes to nip problem behaviors like jumping, nipping, or anxiety in the bud.
Creating a Comfort Zone
- Provide dogs with their own corner of a room or crate with bedding. This safe space reduces stress.
- Place water, toys, and chews in the comfort zone for enrichment.
- Playing calming music and using pheromone diffusers can also ease anxiety when alone.
- With some creativity and commitment, any dog can thrive in apartments.
Chihuahua
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One of the tiniest breeds available, Chihuahuas weigh 5-6 pounds and stand just 6-9 inches tall. They require minimal exercise beyond short walks or indoor play. Their smooth coat needs occasional brushing and sheds very little. With proper training, these confident pups can adapt well to apartment living.
Papillon
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Known for being easygoing companions, Pugs are content with short daily walks and quality time with their owners. Their short coats shed moderately but need little grooming beyond weekly brushing. At 14-18 pounds, these low-energy dogs make great apartment pets.
Pug
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Known for being easygoing companions, Pugs are content with short daily walks and quality time with their owners. Their short coats shed moderately but need little grooming beyond weekly brushing. At 14-18 pounds, these low-energy dogs make great apartment pets.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
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Weighing 13-18 pounds, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel adapts well to apartments with moderate exercise needs. Their silky coat requires weekly brushing but is non-shedding. These affectionate dogs get along great with other pets and children. Early socialization and training are key.
Bichon Frise
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Bichon Frises are lively but gentle dogs under 18 pounds. Their hypoallergenic coat needs regular grooming but doesn’t shed much. Short daily walks and playtime keep these affectionate pups content. Bichons should be crate-trained to prevent separation anxiety.
Cocker Spaniel
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The merry and gentle Cocker Spaniel weighs 24-30 pounds. They need 30+ minutes of daily exercise but are otherwise relaxed indoors. Their luxurious coat requires brushing several times per week. Early socialization is important for these sensitive dogs.
Greyhound
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Despite their size of up to 70 pounds, Greyhounds are gentle companion dogs requiring just one daily walk. Their short coat needs minimal grooming. Retired racing Greyhounds are often well-trained and relaxed indoors.
Great Dane
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Great Danes can weigh over 100 pounds but are surprisingly low maintenance. They only need moderate exercise like short walks. Their short coat requires weekly brushing. A crate helps housebreak these gentle giants and prevent accidents when alone.
Bullmastiff
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Bullmastiffs are large yet inactive dogs that reach 130 pounds. They do best with a daily walk and some playtime. Their coat needs brushing 1-2 times per week. Early obedience training is recommended for these strong-willed dogs.