Living with a Pet

Keeping your living space neat, clean, and organized is the key to happy living for both you and your pooch.

Organize Your Pup's Toys

Designate a specific box, bin, or area of the apartment to store your dog's toys, balls, and other items. Avoid tennis balls and other small toys that may cause choking. This is especially important if you plan on leaving your dog home alone.

Keep Food and Snacks Sealed

To avoid unwanted infestations, seal your dog's food and treats properly. Store your dog's treats in plastic containers with sealed lids … this keeps your pup's food safe and healthy, and saves you money in the long run.

Potty Train Your Pooch

You will need to train them on how, when, and where to use the bathroom. Depending on the age and where you got your dog, they may already be trained. Your dog may go to the door and bark or scratch, while others may grab their leash and bring it to you. If you have a puppy, you may need to teach these things using plenty of patience, practice, and treats. Creating a routine helps too.

Keep Barking to a Minimum

This isn't always easy. After all, barking is one way that dogs communicate. There are a few ways to minimize the amount your dog barks. When it comes time to play, don't get your dog too riled up or excited which may cause them to bark loudly. Training your dog not to bark using treats, and command words like "quiet", and other methods also work well.

Decorate Your Dog Apartment Carefully

Even the most well-trained dogs make mistakes and have accidents. Your pup might accidentally go on the carpet, jump on the couch, or chew your favorite shoe. Decorate your apartment as a dog owner. Don't invest in expensive furniture for the rooms your dog likes best. Keep valuable items and clothing on high shelves or in closed closets. Purchase inexpensive rugs that can easily be replaced.

Hide Your Trash Can

Dogs are notorious for going through the trash. Help your pooch avoid temptation by storing your trash can somewhere safe and secure. The most common spot is underneath the kitchen sink. If you don't have space beneath your sink, try a nearby closet or pantry. When all else fails, purchase a trash can with a tightly-fitted lid. Secure your bathroom and bedroom trash cans as well. Whenever possible, take the garbage out before leaving your dog home alone.

Establish Rules About Furniture

Some pet owners love for their dog to snuggle up beside them on the couch or in bed. Others have a strict "no dogs on the furniture" policy. Whichever describes you, choose a side and stick with it! There are pros and cons to allowing your pup on the furniture. Whatever you decide, be consistent … dogs are easily confused when one minute it's okay to pounce on you and the next minute they're being scolded for it.

Balancing Dog Ownership and Apartment Living

Apartment living with a dog is all about mutual respect – respecting your neighbors and guests and your pup's needs. If you have a roommate, make sure they're comfortable with the living situation as well.