Having a dog for a roommate can make apartment living a lot more fun. After all, a pet in the house is supposed to bring positive vibes. But before you adopt your dog, you'll need to plan carefully to avoid complications and unfortunate incidents. Below are some tips:
1) Check your lease and insurance.
Go over the provisions of your lease first and see if there are any policies regarding pet-ownership. If dogs are allowed in your apartment, find out if there are any other restrictions or additional fees by having a good talk with your landlord.
Also, check with your home or renter's insurance company, as some consider certain dog breeds high risk. Pit bulls & Staffordshire terriers, doberman pinschers and rottweilers are just some of these breeds, according to Forbes.
2) Set realistic expectations.
The reason for the restrictions is simple: some dogs aren't suited for apartment living and might have a hard time adjusting to a small and confined space. If you're looking for a pet to bring home, take an honest look at your living space and consider the well-being of the dog. If a playful and energetic terrier won't have space, there are enough breeds to choose from for living in an apartment, including shih tzu, bulldog and Maltese, according to the American Kennel Club.
3) Consider expenses for dog's vaccinations and parasite preventive medications.
Since you share the apartment complex with other families, you'll need to keep your pet parasite and disease free to prevent infection. Additionally, you'll also need to keep yourself and your dog protected. In the rare instance that your dog might be accused of biting, you'll have proof that the dog's medications are up to date. Many states require dog vaccinations, but there are different protocols and rates per state, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
4) House-training should be a priority.
Do you have the time to teach your dog to be the best roommate? Training will require your utmost commitment, so also consider how this will affect your lifestyle. You'll also have to teach him to socialize with your neighbors. Apartment-living can be busy, noisy and distracting for dogs, but with proper guidance, you can condition him to be safe, calm, comfortable and friendly.
For more on dog training, read: Using Polite Phrases Teaches Your Dogs To Be Well-Mannered
