Small apartments can be challenging enough just trying to fit your belongings into their miniature spaces. But when do you want a pet to accompany you? That becomes a completely different matter. So how can you choose a perfect furry companion to join you? Read on for some tips; some may surprise you.
Closeness is a factor
Two things to consider are how close you are to your neighbors and how thick the walls are. If you have a corner apartment and you really don’t border on anyone, even in a studio apartment, you may have a slightly louder pet than in a dense building with thin walls. Dogs are usually territorially protective and will bark to ward off potential intruders. Keeping curtains closed on exterior windows is one way to prevent them from feeling the need to be defensive.
Small dogs aren’t always perfect
Some dog breeds such as terriers are highly intelligent and active dogs that need a lot of space and stimulation on a regular basis. Parson Russell Terriers, Pomeranians, and Chihuahuas are just a few of them. Others are ideal for apartments, breeds such as Boston Terriers, Pugs, French Bulldogs, and Maltese. They are called brachycephalic, which means they have a flat nose and have trouble breathing in hot conditions or after strenuous exercise. They are excellent small space companions.
Often older is better
A puppy has a lot of energy that he needs to expend. A small apartment is not always ideal for a puppy despite its perfect size, as it can become destructive without an outlet for its energy. You must have plenty of space to exercise. Retired service dogs or racing dogs like Whippets and Greyhounds are just looking for a good home with a loving parent and don’t need a lot of walking.
Don’t discount the greats
A large dog could be a great companion. As long as you can take him for a long walk or run with him in a nearby park, you can have a large dog like a Greyhound, as they are actually big addicts to television.
Pets other than dogs
Cats are usually fine with a small space, but this is not true for all breeds. Some breeds such as Siamese and Abyssinian are extraordinarily energetic and require a lot of space and vertical climbing structures in which to exercise. Most breeds, however, sleep and spend up to 18 hours a day resting. Rag dolls and Persians are well known for their gentle natures. If you choose to get a pet from a shelter, you can ask the workers for a quiet furry baby and explain that it will be in an apartment. They will have behavior charts and can help you find the right one.
Birds can be good choices as long as they are not loud and prone to chattering during hours that may disturb your neighbors. Its size, however, is perfect.
Pets in tanks are usually great options for small apartments and don’t require a lot of attention to thrive. Fish, lizards, and turtles are great, but just check with the apartment manager so you don’t violate any rental policies.
The most important thing is to check with the building owner or apartment manager for the pet guidelines. Will there be a pet deposit to pay? Are there any noise or weight restrictions? By asking for permission first instead of asking for forgiveness later, you can maintain a good relationship with the manager and not have to give up on your new family member.