How to Live Comfortably in a Small Space -Pet owner edition -
dog apartment hacks.250 square foot. 2 adults. 1 dog.
For centuries dog ownership has been on the rise in households around the world. Recent surveys found that pet ownership significantly increased during the pandemic. An article in The Guardian.com discovered that 9 million dogs have been acquired by households since the start of the pandemic in the United States ALONE!
Households are now facing the challenge: How can I live comfortably in my home while providing my dog with a quality life. Majority of the population does not live in a home equipped with a spacious yard covered in lush green grass — I know I don’t! Thankfully, large amounts of space is not a requirement in the pursuit of living an enjoyable life with your fur friend!
Here are the tips and tricks I learnt in my 2 years living in a 250foot studio apartment with my Jack Russell and partner. These apartment hacks can help you reach your pet parent potential in a smaller home.
- Choosing the right breed for YOU
Let’s get the obvious out of the way. When deciding on which breed to get you MUST consider the dog’s physical size relative to the space you have AND the breed’s energy level compared to yours. E.g. it is probably not wise to get a German shepherd if you live in a studio apartment. As well as getting a French bulldog if you live an (extremely) active lifestyle and intend to go on long hikes with your furry friend.
Personally we went for a Jack Russel Terrier. One of the first characteristic traits of a Jack Russell is ENERGETIC, we felt like that was a good fit for us (a household of 2 active adults in their 20’s).
Tip: There are a plethora of ‘dog breed selector quizzes’ available online to find the ideal dog breeds for your home, lifestyle and family structure.
2. Mentally stimulate your pooch
A mentally stimulated dog is a tired dog, a tired dog is a calm dog and a calm dog = happy human.
A great way to stimulate your pet is through sniffing! Sniffing is an ideal way to mentally stimulate your dog. Fun Fact: 15 minutes of sniffing is equivalent to an hour long walk for dogs! Mental stimulation is an important way in burning excess energy. Sniffing helps dog learn, lower stress, ward off boredom and curb unwanted behaviour at home. There are dog toys specifically made to stimulate your dog by encouraging them to sniff. These include: sniffing mats (also called snuffle mats) as well as dog activity puzzles. By hiding food or treats in these toys your pooch is enticed to sniff out all the goodies.
When I am not able to go on a long walk or make a trip to the dog park then my dog gets her dinner served in a snufflemat!
Tip: Prepare your dogs sniffing toys before leaving the house. This will keep your dog distracted and busy while you are away
3. Private area for your dog
Although your pooch may be ecstatic to see you when you walk through the door, the truth is that sometimes they need their alone time. Time to recharge, nap and rest. This will be an area your dog can retreat to when relaxing is necessary.
Make this area as comfortable as possible for your apartment dog! Our pup, Oeki, loves to be covered up with a roof over her head; her sanctuary is a mini house-bed (see image below). She often retreats to her little house whenever she needs alone time
Tip: From my personal experience I prefer not to forcefully remove my dog from her private area. This area is meant to be a safe space for your dog where they can retreat to peacefully. Instead if I want her to exit her private area I use commands such as ‘come’ or ‘approach’.
4. Make fur friends
Yes, dogs can get lonely. Dogs are capable of feeling various emotions, and loneliness is one of them. Dogs are capable of feeling lonely as they are a social species that thrive on socialization. Give your pup the gift of friendship, they are sure to enjoy it.
Make connections with fellow dog owners and get to know some fur friends in your neighbourhood. This way your dog has a friend to play with when they are outside. More playing outside leads to a tired dog, and a tired dog is less likely to engage in troublesome behaviour at home.
Lucky us! In our apartment building there are 2 other Jack Russells that my Oeki can play with. Other fur friends in our building include a energetic daschund, a playful french bulldog and a curious pug! Plently of friends to socialize and play with.
Tip: Find a fur friend for your pooch that has a similar energy level. This way they can play until they are both tired
5. Routine, Routine, Routine
A routine is important for a dog’s wellbeing. With a routine, dogs are accustomed to the same things happening at the same time, this helps them to avoid them feeling anxious. Your dog is more likely to remain calm and happy when at home because they know the next trip outside is happening again soon.
Tip: take your dog around the same time everyday. This way they look forward to going outside and releasing their pent up energy
6. Prepare before leaving the house
When leaving your dog home alone for an extended period of time it can be helpful to prepare in advance. To prevent your dog from becoming bored and displaying unwanted behaviour (r.i.p headphones) give them a mental and physical challenge!
One method that is tried and true is through hide and seek! I scatter items (toys or small treats) around the house for her to sniff out and collect while home alone. I have noticed that upon returning home my dog is much more calm and mostly just waking up from a nap. Eating and playing can be so tiring!
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Hopefully these apartment hacks can help you in creating a more comfortable home environment for you and your pet!
