Start with the lease and the right dog
Check your lease or building rules before you bring a dog home. Look for pet deposits, monthly pet fees, weight or breed limits, and the number of pets allowed. Get approvals in writing.
Size matters less than energy. A calm adult dog may adapt to a small home better than an active young dog of any size. Think about noise (some dogs bark more), exercise needs, and how long the dog would be alone each day. Shelters and rescues can often tell you about an individual dog’s temperament, which is more useful than breed generalizations.
Set up your space
- Create a dog zone. A bed or crate, water, and toys in a quiet corner gives your dog a place to settle.
- Protect floors. Washable rugs can cushion nail noise on hard floors and protect your deposit. Keep nails trimmed.
- Dog-proof. Store cords, shoes, medications, cleaning products, and trash where your dog cannot reach them.
- Keep an eye on plants. Some common houseplants are toxic to dogs. Check with your vet or a poison helpline if you are unsure: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, (888) 426-4435, or Pet Poison Helpline, (855) 764-7661. Both are open 24 hours a day and may charge a fee.
Potty training in an apartment
Consistent routines matter more than the apartment itself.
- Take puppies out often, including after waking, eating, and play, and reward right after they go in the right spot. Your vet can tell you how often a puppy of your dog’s age needs breaks.
- Choose one regular outdoor spot and take your dog there on leash.
- For high floors or bad weather, some owners use pads or a grass patch. Decide on a plan early, since mixing methods can confuse dogs.
- Clean accidents with an enzymatic cleaner made for pet messes. Scents left behind can encourage repeat marking, which is partly why people ask what smell attracts dogs to pee.
- Never punish accidents. It tends to make dogs hide when they need to go.
If a house-trained dog suddenly has accidents, drinks much more, or strains to urinate, call your vet, because a medical problem could be involved. Our guide to blood in a dog’s urine explains why changes in urination should be checked.
Young puppies also need vaccinations before they visit shared outdoor areas, so ask your vet what is safe. Our guide on when to take a puppy to the vet explains more.
Exercise and mental stimulation
Plan on regular daily walks for bathroom breaks and fresh air, and adjust length to your dog’s age, health and breed. Many vets suggest asking about exercise needs, especially for puppies and seniors.
Add indoor enrichment:
- Puzzle feeders and snuffle mats
- Hiding treats for a sniffing game
- Short training sessions
- Rotating toys so they stay interesting
Mental work can tire a dog as much as physical activity.
Noise and neighbors
- Teach quiet and settle cues, and reward calm behavior.
- Use white noise or soft background sound to mask hallway and street noise.
- Avoid leaving a dog alone for long periods that they are not ready for.
- Keep your dog under control in hallways, elevators and shared spaces, and pick up after them.
If barking is persistent, talk with your vet to rule out pain or anxiety, then consider a qualified trainer or behaviorist.
Alone time and separation stress
Build alone time gradually, starting with short absences. Signs of distress include constant barking or howling, destruction near doors, drooling, or pacing. These can mean separation anxiety, which is best discussed with your vet (see also dog mental health issues). Midday visits from a walker or neighbor can help for puppies and dogs who struggle with long days.
Balcony, door and hallway safety
- Check that balcony railings have no gaps your dog can slip through, and never leave a dog unsupervised on a balcony.
- Keep windows secured, especially above ground level.
- Use a leash at the door, since dashing out is a common risk.
- Make sure your dog’s ID tag and microchip details are current.
Keeping the home clean
Brush regularly to reduce shed hair (our dog shedding solutions guide has more ideas), wash bedding, and wipe paws after walks. Keep up with parasite prevention as your vet recommends, since fleas can spread inside multi-unit buildings.
Frequently asked questions
How do you potty train a dog in an apartment?
Use a regular schedule, take your dog out often, reward success, and clean accidents thoroughly. Stay consistent with the method you pick.
How do people live with dogs in small spaces?
By matching the dog to their lifestyle, committing to daily exercise and enrichment, and setting routines for rest, play and alone time.
What month is hardest with a puppy?
There is no single answer. Many owners find the first weeks, when sleep and house training are demanding, or the teenage months, when behavior changes, the hardest.
Can I have more than one dog in an apartment?
Possibly, depending on your lease and space. See our multi-dog household tips for what to consider. For other basics, read how to care for your pet.