You love your dog. You love your apartment (or maybe not, but either way you’re there). Still, there are many challenges you’ll encounter while living in an apartment with your dog that you might not otherwise face.
But your life doesn’t have to be a constant worry about your dog being noisy or making a mess, or trying and failing to keep your dog happy and satisfied while living in cramped quarters. (Unless you’re on TV and can afford a massive apartment on the wages of a coffee shop waitress, of course.)
You’re in luck, however, because today we’ve got some simple but very effective dog apartment hacks that will make life more pleasant and worry-free for both you and your four-legged friend.
And perhaps you neighbors too, but if they’re the type to stomp around at 4 am don’t worry about them!
Buy sealed food storage containers for treats.
Rodent and critter infestations are very common in apartment buildings. Rats in particular are known for chewing through cardboard pet food boxes to gorge on your pup’s grub.
Putting treats and other food items in sealed storage containers will keep out unwanted invaders – including your pup himself. These keep treats fresh for longer, which works especially well for the loose treats you can buy at the pet store.
Just make sure to place the containers in a high place out of your dog’s reach, such as on top of the refrigerator, on a shelf, or in a cabinet.
Invest in a basket or box for all your dog’s toys.
This is one of the simplest and most inexpensive dog apartment hacks. The toy box should be placed on the floor so your pooch has access to their toys at all times.
Be sure to include a wide assortment of toys, including balls, and “puzzle” toys to keep your dog occupied while you’re away.
Be careful with tennis balls, as they can be a dangerous choking hazard especially for large breeds. Dog balls that have an open, lattice design are a safer option.
Put your pup in a separate room when you go out.
Apartment living is often cramped and cozy, and neighbors won’t take too kindly to a dog that barks by the front door when their owner is away.
Prevent your pooch from having free roam of the house by shutting them in the bedroom or kitchen before you leave your apartment. Be sure to place their food and water bowls, toys, grass litter tray, and doggie bed in the room.
If you live in a studio apartment and don’t have a separate room, consider crating your dog while you’re away. If you’re worried about your dog getting on the furniture, check out our article on how to keep your dog off the couch.
Establish a bathroom routine.
Training your furry friend not to do their business in the house is one of the most challenging parts of being a pet owner. This is definitely true for pet owners in apartments.
Take your dog out at the same time each day to help them grow accustomed to a routine. This will help minimize in-house accidents. Still, it may be a good idea to purchase a “grass potty”, which is essentially a grass litter box for dogs.
They’re natural, handy, and easy to clean – perfect for potty training any puppy.
Use a Citronella collar to prevent excessive barking.
These are far more humane than shock collars or muzzles, and are certified as safe by the ASPCA.
Studies show that citronella collars are much more effective than shock collars – dogs respond better to strong odors as opposed to painful shocks.
Most citronella collars have a built-in microphone and/or vibration detection.
They’re designed to only activate when your dog barks (not other external noises or barks), which prompts the collar to spray a small amount of citronella.
This distracts your dog from their barking, and the smell is non-offensive for humans.
If you don’t have a broom closet or adequate space in your kitchen cabinets, make sure your trash is secured with a tight-fitting lid. Try to place the trash can in a tight space where your dog can’t easily knock it over.
Also ensure small trash cans, like those in your bathroom, are secured with a snug lid. Changing your trash – particularly trash cans with food waste – regularly will help reduce your dog’s urge to raid.
Is Your Home Pet-Friendly?
I hope this has given you plenty of ways to make things easier around your abode for you and your dog.
A pet-friendly home is one that makes living in it with a dog easier. It’s also one where your dog is comfortable and safe!
Keep your home pet-friendly by using sealed food storage containers, putting your pup in a separate room when you go out, and following all our other tips!
