It is not uncommon to wonder whether large dog breeds are suitable for apartments. Some shelters also require a yard in your house to adopt certain large dog breeds. Regardless of all the myths and assumptions, the size of a dog breed is only one of the important factors to consider when living in an apartment.
Larger dogs have fewer bathroom trips than smaller ones, meaning fewer potty trips outside. However, you must consider their activity needs. Having no yard means taking them on the run or arranging playful activities to tire them out.
There are a lot of ifs and buts when it comes to suitable dog breeds for apartments. That’s why, we have compiled a list of the best large dog breeds for apartments. We also discuss several factors you should consider to know which large dog breed will suit your needs best.
Whether small or large, dogs are a great bundle of joy that brings us happiness, calm, and a daily dose of exercise. Bringing a large dog into your apartment life means sharing space with a new roommate, one that comes with a fair share of considerations and responsibilities. Here are some key points to think over to ensure you both live happily in your shared space.
Yes, it’s possible to have a large dog in a smaller living space, but you’ll need to think about how much room your dog will need to stretch out, play, and just be a dog. Some large breeds are surprisingly low-energy and can thrive in smaller spaces as long as their other needs are met.
But remember, every dog needs a spot to chill, whether a cozy corner with a bed or a specific spot on the couch.
Exercise is non-negotiable. Large dogs typically come with a lot of energy. Daily walks are a must, but they also need mental stimulation. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and playtime are common activities to tire them out.
If you’re a jogger, a large dog might be the perfect companion to take on your runs. The key here is commitment; your dog’s exercise needs will become a regular part of your daily routine.
Not all large dogs are created equal when it comes to their temperament. Some breeds are more laid back, while others are protective or have high energy levels. Researching and understanding the typical temperament of your chosen breed is crucial.
Consider whether their natural behavior is a good fit for an apartment setting. For instance, a dog known for being vocal might not be the best neighbor in an apartment complex.
Speaking of neighbors, you’ll want to consider how a large dog fits into your apartment community. Larger dogs can be louder, from barking to just moving around. It’s essential to think about how sound travels in your building and what you can do to minimize any disruption.
You can teach your dog when to speak and be quiet through training and socialization. This goes a long way in ensuring your dog is well-behaved and quiet.
Large dogs require significant time for exercise, grooming, training, and socialization. Make sure you’re ready for the commitment. If you work long hours or have a busy social life, consider how a dog will fit into your lifestyle. Some large breeds require more attention and companionship than others.
Easy access to outdoor spaces is a game-changer for large dog owners living in apartments. Whether it’s a nearby park or just a safe area for daily walks, consider how to provide your dog with ample outdoor time.
Also, many apartments in the metropolis cities have walk-ups. If that’s your case, consider the logistics of getting a large dog in and out of your apartment, especially if you live on a higher floor.
Last but certainly not least, check your apartment’s pet policy. Some buildings have restrictions on dog sizes, breeds, or the number of pets you can have. Also, check pet rules with your landlord, as some do not allow larger dog breeds due to the greater financial risk.
It’s better to know these rules inside and out before bringing a new furry friend into your home to avoid any heartache.
Here are 16 large dog breeds best suited for apartments.
Greyhounds are known for their racing prowess but are surprisingly low-key at home. They love a good sprint but are mostly content with sleeping on the couch. Their short coat is easy to maintain and incredibly gentle and quiet, making them ideal for apartment living. Just ensure they can stretch their legs in a safe area periodically.
Great Danes might tower over others but have a calm and affectionate nature. They need more space to get comfortable — think of getting a larger couch or bed. While they enjoy walks, they’re not demanding in terms of exercise. Their short coat is easy to care for, though you might find yourself cleaning up drool now and then.
Mastiffs are massive and can be a bit intimidating, but they’re incredibly loyal and laid-back. They prefer lounging around to long walks, making them surprisingly suited to apartment life. Their coat is low maintenance, but they are known for drooling. So, be sure to keep up with their dental hygiene.
Newfoundlands are big, sweet-natured dogs that are best suited for cooler climates. They’re excellent with children and make fantastic family pets. Their love for water means you might have more grooming on your hands, especially to keep their thick coat in top condition. They’re not overly active indoors, making them good apartment dogs in the right conditions.
Standard poodles are not just stylish, they’re also highly intelligent and energetic. They thrive on mental stimulation and regular exercise. Their curly coat is hypoallergenic but requires regular grooming to prevent mats. Poodles adapt well to apartment living, provided they get enough exercise and mental challenges.
Bernese mountain dogs are known for their friendly nature and patience, making them great with kids. They have a thick, long coat that requires regular grooming, especially in warmer climates. While they enjoy being active, they’re also comfortable relaxing at home, making them suitable for larger apartments.
Bulldogs are great for apartment dwellers looking for a low-energy companion. They enjoy short walks and are comfortable indoors. Their distinctive skin folds need regular cleaning to prevent issues, and they can be sensitive to heat, so keeping your home cool is important.
Adventurous and Adaptable: Labs are friendly, outgoing, and fit well in almost any setting, including apartments. They’re known for their adaptability, though they shed and require regular exercise to stay happy. Labs are great companions for those who can provide daily walks and playtime, ensuring they’re well-exercised and mentally stimulated.
Clumber spaniels are the laid-back members of the spaniel family. They’re known for their gentle demeanor and are less active than their spaniel cousins, making them great for apartment life.
Clumbers do shed and require regular grooming, but their relaxed nature and love for cuddles make them perfect for those looking for a low-key buddy. Just keep them on a healthy diet to prevent weight gain.
Afghan hounds are elegant, with their long, silky coats and dignified demeanor. They’re independent and can be a bit aloof, but they form strong bonds with their families. Their grooming needs are high, requiring regular brushing to keep their coat tangle-free. They enjoy a good run, so access to a secure area where they can stretch their legs is ideal.
Saint Bernards are famous for their size and gentle nature. They’re fantastic family dogs, patient and loving with children. Due to their size, they need a bit more space, even though they’re not particularly active indoors. They drool and have a thick coat that needs regular grooming. They’re best suited to cooler climates and require moderate exercise to stay healthy.
American Staffordshire terriers are muscular and confident, known for their loyalty and love for their families. They’re energetic and enjoy being active, making daily exercise important. Their coat is low maintenance, needing only occasional brushing. With proper socialization, they’re great with children and make reliable companions.
Boxers are known for their playful nature and boundless energy. They’re great with kids, always ready to play and protect their family. They need plenty of exercise to manage their energy levels, making them suitable for active apartment dwellers. Their short coat is easy to care for, but they can be prone to overheating, so keep them cool during hot weather.
Irish wolfhounds are the gentle giants of the dog world, known for their calm and friendly nature. Despite their large size, they’re surprisingly good apartment dogs, as they’re relatively inactive indoors. They do need space to stretch out and enjoy leisurely walks. Their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting, and they thrive in a loving, calm environment.
Shar-peis are unique with their wrinkled skin and aloof demeanor. They’re loyal to their families but can be wary of strangers, making early socialization important. Their coat is short but requires special care to keep their wrinkles clean. They’re suited to apartment living due to their moderate energy levels but need regular walks to stay happy and healthy.
Cane corsos are powerful and protective, with a deep loyalty to their family. They’re intelligent and require firm, consistent training from an experienced owner.
Despite their size, they can adapt to apartment living with enough exercise and mental stimulation. Their short coat is low maintenance, but they need space to move around, making them better suited for larger apartments.
All the breeds above are excellent choices for apartment living. But you can provide them with more comfort and keep them healthy. Here are some tips to do that.
Living with a large dog in an apartment isn’t just about making space to roam and sleep; it’s about creating a space that caters to their needs. It starts with dog-proofing your home to make it safe, which means tidying away anything they might chew or knock over.
Dogs love a space for themselves. You can make a cozy corner just for them, with a big, plush bed that fits their size and toys that keep them engaged and entertained. It’s about transforming your apartment into a shared haven that respects your needs and theirs.
The notion that large dogs can’t thrive in apartments because they can’t run around as much is a myth. Yes, they need exercise, but it’s more about the quality than the quantity. Inside, you can turn exercise into a fun game, like hide-and-seek with their favorite treats or a challenging puzzle toy that rewards them with snacks.
Outdoors, the adventure continues with daily walks or jogs, exploring every nook of your neighborhood, or making trips to the dog park for some off-leash freedom. Physical and mental engagement keep their tails wagging.
Good behavior is crucial in a small space. That means consistent training from the get-go. Large dogs have an intimidating aura, so train them to greet humans and other animals with calm. Achieving this level of social ability comes from early and positive exposure to various sights, sounds, and experiences.
On the other hand, training is where you and your dog learn to communicate. While communicating commands is the apparent purpose of training, it’s more about creating a stronger bond. Our professional training courses are a great way to strengthen your bond with your pup, offering structured environments for both learning and socializing.
Large dogs are more prone to physical health problems, typically regarding their joints and muscles. Their diet from an early age impacts their long-term wellness. It is crucial to feed them high-quality food that suits their breed, size, and energy level.
Regular vet visits are essential, ensuring they’re on the right track health-wise and catching any issues before they become problems. It’s a proactive approach to their well-being, where you play the lead role in ensuring they live a long, happy life.
Living with a large dog in an apartment is challenging, but you can easily manage them with basic know-how. Ample exercise and mental stimulation keep them from boredom, keeping the barking at bay.
Also, understand their triggers and work through them together. Shedding can be a real problem, but with a good grooming routine and the right tools, it becomes part of the bonding experience, keeping your home hair-free and your dog comfortable.
While keeping a large dog in an apartment might seem daunting to some, it’s entirely possible and an exciting experience for you and your furry friend. As we’ve explored, the key to a harmonious apartment life with a large dog lies in understanding and meeting their specific needs, from space and exercise to breed temperament and beyond.
Space considerations, exercise requirements, and the temperament of your chosen breed play crucial roles in ensuring your large dog can live comfortably in an apartment setting. It’s important to remember that, despite their size, many large breeds are well-suited to apartment living thanks to their low energy levels or laid-back nature.
Exercise and mental stimulation are non-negotiable aspects of caring for a large dog in an apartment. Daily walks, puzzle toys, and regular playtime can help keep your dog healthy and happy, preventing potential issues like boredom or disruptive behavior.
Breed temperament and compatibility with apartment living are also critical factors. Choosing a breed that fits well into your living situation and lifestyle can significantly impact your shared happiness and well-being.
Additionally, considering your neighbors, the logistics of apartment living, and the rules and restrictions of your building are essential steps in ensuring a smooth experience for everyone involved.
The joy and companionship a large dog brings to your life can far outweigh the challenges of apartment living. By making thoughtful choices about the breed, preparing your space, and committing to your dog’s care and exercise, you can create a loving, fulfilling home for your large canine companion, regardless of your living situation.