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With approximately half the population of the United States owning a pet, there can be no doubt, it is an animal loving nation. However, with many people living in apartments, the well-being of the animal should be placed above an individual's desire to own a pet. I am obviously not suggesting that apartment dwellers should not own a pet, but it is important to ensure that your animal of choice is suitable for life in an environment of limited space.
Dogs
If you live in an apartment, especially one with no garden or yard, it is probably best not to purchase a large breed of dog, such as a Great Dane, St Bernard or an Irish Wolfhound. Of course, from the dog's point of view, if you are in a position that allows you to take the dog out frequently and regularly throughout the day, then it may be possible to live with a large dog in an apartment. On the other hand, from your point of view, it is always worth considering how much space in your home the dog will take up.
Therefore, I would recommend small breeds of dog for apartment living. Some dogs you may wish to consider include Chihuahua, Toy Poodle, Jack Russell, Pug and Yorkshire Terrier. Obviously, there are many more small breeds that would be equally suitable for apartment living. However, I would particularly recommend the Pug, because not only is it a small dog, but it is also generally very quiet. Pugs are not known for being yappy, which, unfortunately, many toy breeds can be.
Cats
If you plan to keep your cat as an 'indoor cat', then it is advisable to ensure that you have lots of toys and climbing equipment for your cat. Cats that do not have this kind of stimulation tend to get bored and can easily put on weight. Consequently, many indoor cats suffer from a variety of obesity related health problems.
However, as long as a cat has plenty to keep him, or her, occupied, it can make a wonderful apartment pet. Some owners choose to have their cats de-clawed, which is a contentious issue. Obviously, the aim is to ensure that the cat can not damage any furniture or other household objects. However, this should not be necessary, if your cat has enough toys of its own, it will not begin to treat your expensive furniture as a toy. Of course, it is important that your cat is litter trained and that you clean your cat's litter box regularly.
Smaller Pets
Obviously, smaller animals make the ideal apartment pets, because they do not take up too much room and, typically, do not make much noise. I say 'typically' because some birds can sound like a foghorn since their small stature.
Small pets that you may like to consider for your apartment include hamsters, mice, rats, rabbits, guinea pigs, fish and small birds. It is important to do your research on any pet before you purchase it, but this is especially true of exotic pets, such as birds, lizards and tropical fish. In addition, some small animals dislike living alone, for example, rats and guineas pigs are very social animals, so, it would be cruel to keep just one of these animals on his or her, own. Conversely, most breeds of hamster live solitary lives in the wild and, therefore, should not be kept in pairs or groups.
Whichever pet you choose to own, it is wise to ensure that you can supply all of its needs. The amount of space in your apartment and the time you can offer your pet should be your first considerations.
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Source by Samantha Markham
