There’s no question that large dog breeds are awesome. They’re loyal, loving, and make great protectors. But owning a big dog comes with its own set of challenges – especially if you live in an apartment.
In this article, we will be discussing large breeds that make the best apartment dogs. We will outline the pros and cons of owning each breed as well as provide general information on each one. Whether you’re looking for a cuddly companion or an energetic workout partner, we’ve got you covered.
Contents
Is It Cruel To Have A Large Dog In An Apartment?
It’s a question that often comes up – can large dogs do well in apartments? The answer, of course, depends on a number of factors.
For starters, it’s important to consider the size of your apartment. If you have a small apartment, it’s probably not ideal to get a Great Dane.
Another important consideration is whether or not your dog will be spending time alone in your apartment. If you work long hours and your dog will be left alone for extended periods of time, he or she may become bored and destructive due to the lack of mental stimulation. In this case, a breed of dog that is content to lounge around the apartment might be a better option.
Finally, it’s worth thinking about your lifestyle. If you’re an active person who likes to go on hikes and runs, a large dog will likely be a good fit. But if you’re more of a homebody, a less active dog might be just what you need.
At the end of the day, there’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing the right size dog for your apartment. It’s all about finding the animal that best fits your individual lifestyle and apartment life.
Can I Have A Big Dog In An Apartment?
For many of us, our four-legged friends are part of the family, and we want them to share our home with us. If you’re considering adding a big dog to your family, be sure to do your research and choose a breed that will be compatible with your lifestyle and living situation. And remember, no matter what breed of dog you choose, they will need plenty of love and attention to be happy and healthy.
So, what do potential dog owners need to know if they’re considering getting a big dog while living in an apartment?
Your Apartment Building
It’s possible to have a big dog in an apartment, but it requires some extra considerations. The size, type, policies, and neighborhood of the apartment building you reside in will have an impact on whether you are able to keep a bigger dog.
Pet Policy
First of all, it’s important to check with your landlord or building management about their pet policy. Some buildings don’t allow pets at all, while others may not allow dogs over a certain weight or a specific breed of dog, so it’s important to get this information upfront.
Before adopting a big dog, be sure to check with your landlord or condo board to find out if there are any size restrictions in place. Some buildings have weight limits for dogs, so it’s important to make sure your furry friend is within the allowed range.
You should also find out if there are any breed restrictions in place. Unfortunately, some landlords and condo boards have “Breed Bans” in place that prohibit certain types of dogs, often based on preconceived notions about their temperament or behavior.
If you’re set on adopting a big dog, try reaching out to your landlord or condo board to see if they’d be willing to make an exception. Many people are more open to the idea of renting to tenants with bigger dogs if they’re able to meet the animal in person and see that they’re well-behaved and friendly.
Your Neighbors
Even if your landlord does allow large breed dogs in the apartment complex, there may be additional rules in place regarding where your dog can be taken within the complex. For example, some landlords may require that dogs be kept on a leash at all times while on the property. Others may have designated areas for dogs to use the restroom or play.
These rules are in consideration of your neighbors because some of them may not be comfortable with a big dog living in the building. Some people are afraid of dogs, while others simply don’t like noise.
Also, apartment dwellers who have small children may be concerned about a huge dog’s desire to become buddies with their youngster. A long time ago, I knew a lovely and gentle Saint Bernard named Coco. My friend’s two-year-old daughter smiled whenever she caught sight of this gorgeous big dog around the building. She loved Coco and would toddle over to pat him.
Unfortunately, with Coco’s size, most of the time he knocked over his special friend, and then this concerned dog would insist on inspecting the little girl to check that she wasn’t hurt. So whenever we saw Coco, my friend or I would pick the little girl up and approach Coco so we could let her say hello without getting knocked over. The little girl is a teenager now, and she still speaks fondly of Coco.
Apartment Size
If you’re lucky enough to live in a pet-friendly apartment, the next thing to consider is your apartment’s layout and whether your apartment is physically large enough to comfortably accommodate a big dog. Even the most well-behaved big dog can be a handful in a small space. You need to make sure you have enough room for them to move around and play, and that your furniture can withstand a little wear and tear. Plus there’s the dog’s bed and all their paraphernalia to find space for.
If you have a small studio or one-bedroom apartment, for example, it might not be ideal for a large breed of dog. If your apartment is on the small side, you might want to consider adopting a smaller breed of dog, or even a cat instead.
Building Access
Does your building have good access for a big dog? Is there an elevator, or will the dog need to be able to climb lots of stairs? Also, which floor do you live on? If you’re on a high floor, it may be more time-consuming to take your dog outside for walks.
Access To Green Space
Another important factor to consider is whether your building and the surrounding neighborhood have adequate green space or dog parks for walking and exercising your dog. Big dogs usually need plenty of exercise, so it’s important to make sure they’ll have access to a nearby park or other open areas where they can run and play.
If your building doesn’t have a green space, see if there’s a dog-friendly park nearby that you can walk to on a daily basis.
Or, look into doggy daycare options in your area where your pooch can run and play while you’re at work or running errands.
You And Your Lifestyle
Before you get a big dog, it’s also important to consider your own lifestyle and whether or not you’re able to care for a pet of this size.
Your Time
First, you need to have enough time available to care for the dog properly. This includes walks, playtime, and training. If you work long hours or don’t have access to green spaces nearby, it might not be the right fit.
It’s important to make sure you’re giving your dog enough time to run and play every day. If you don’t have a lot of space in your apartment, you may need to get creative with how you provide exercise – things like going for multiple walks throughout the day or taking your dog to a nearby park or dog run.
If you’re someone who likes to entertain often or go out frequently, a big dog may not be the best fit for you. But if you’re looking for a loyal companion who will always be by your side, a big dog could be perfect for you.
If you’re thinking of getting a large dog, there’s something else to consider – whether or not you work at home. This can have a big impact on the amount of time you can give your dog for exercise and play.
If you don’t work at home, you’ll need to choose a dog that doesn’t mind being left alone for long periods. Otherwise, your dog may become restless and destructive.
Controlling Your Large Friend
Having a big dog in an apartment can be great if you are willing to put in the extra effort for obedience training and apartment training. Both of these things are essential for a big dog living in close quarters with humans and other animals.
A big dog can be strong and willful, so you need to be confident in your ability to manage them. If you can commit to making sure your big dog is well-behaved and housebroken, then you will have no problems having a furry friend in your small space.
If you’re unsure about your ability to keep your big dog under control, then it’s probably not a good idea to have one in an apartment. If you’re sure you can handle your large dog, be sure to take some extra precautions to make sure that your big dog doesn’t cause any damage to your apartment.
Apartment Dog-Proofing
Another thing to consider is how you’re going to dog-proof your apartment. Dogs can be destructive, and big dogs can do a lot of damage. You’ll need to make sure your furniture is sturdy and that any valuables are out of reach. You should also look into getting some kind of insurance in case your dog does cause any damage.
Also, you may need to invest in some dog-proofing items like gates or baby fences to keep them contained in one area of your home.
Be Prepared For Extra Costs
Finally, keep in mind that owning a big dog comes with some additional costs and responsibilities. For starters, you’ll need to buy extra-large food and water bowls, as well as a bigger bed or crate. You might also need to invest in some baby gates to help keep your dog contained in certain areas of your apartment.
You’ll also need to make sure you can supply enough of the right foods for your large friend. They can eat a lot!
If you need someone to walk your dog or if you place your friend into doggy daycare, these costs will need to be factored into your budget.
Additionally, you’ll need to be prepared to pay higher pet deposits and monthly pet fees, as well as increased insurance premiums. Some landlords also require that tenants with big dogs get additional liability insurance to protect against any potential damage the animal might cause.
Extra Work
Finally, you need to be prepared for some extra work. Big dogs can need more grooming than small ones, and if they shed, there is more hair available to drop! It takes a little bit more work to have a big dog in an apartment, but it is definitely worth it! If you’re not up for the challenge then it’s best to stick with a smaller breed.
The Dog’s Qualities
It’s also important to consider the personality of your dog when making this decision. Some dogs are simply more laid back and less active than others, and they may do just fine in an apartment setting. Other dogs, however, are very active and need a lot of space to run and play.
Personality
When choosing a large dog, it’s important to consider the dog’s personality and emotional needs. A very energetic dog may not be the best choice for a family in an apartment. On the other hand, a calmer, more laid-back large breed may be a better fit. It’s all about finding the right dog for your family and lifestyle.
Exercise Needs
The first thing to consider is exercise. Every dog – no matter its age and situation – must receive adequate exercise to ensure its happiness and health.
While all dogs need proper exercise, some breeds need more than others. It’s important to do your research and make sure you’re getting a dog that will be a good fit for your space. Depending on the breed, a big dog needs plenty of it, and if you’re not able to provide that then you need to be prepared to pay for doggy daycare or a dog walker.
Barking
If you’re considering getting a large dog, one factor you may want to take into account is how much they tend to bark.
While all dogs bark to some extent, some breeds are more prone to it than others. If you live in an apartment or have close neighbors, a dog that barks a lot can be a nuisance.
Working from home may be something to consider when deciding how much your dog might bark. If you’re gone most of the day, they may become bored and might choose to tell the world about it. On the other hand, if you work at home, your dog will be less likely to bark, plus you’ll be there to control the situation.
Maintenance
If you pick a breed that requires a lot of grooming, you must ensure you have the time or the money to care for them.
If the breed you choose tends to shed more heavily than other breeds, that means more vacuuming and lint rolling for you! And if someone in your household has allergies, that dog might not be the best fit.
If your breed drools a lot, you’ll have to be able to wipe up after them.
What Is The Best Big Dog Breed For An Apartment?
Picking the right dog breed for your lifestyle is important for a happy and harmonious relationship. If you live in an apartment, you’ll want to choose a breed that is compatible with small living spaces. Bigger isn’t always better when it comes to dogs and apartments. Some big breeds are actually quite well-suited to life in an apartment, as long as they get plenty of exercise.
If you’re looking to adopt a big dog, there are plenty of breeds that would make great apartment pets. From low-energy breeds like the Greyhound to athletic dogs like the Labrador Retriever, there’s sure to be a breed that’s perfect for you and your lifestyle.
Please keep in mind, that every dog is different, and some may not be typical for their breed.
Plus, while all of these dogs will do well in apartments with some planning and preparation, some will definitely do better if someone is home during the day. So, we’ll let you know if this is the case with this breed so you don’t fall in love with them and then find that you can’t leave them alone.
Choose one of the best big dog breeds for your apartment and lifestyle and you’ll be set up for success! With those things in mind, here are a few of the best big dog breeds for apartments:
Bernese Mountain Dog
This family-oriented dog suffers from separation anxiety if left alone for too long.
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, loyal breed that makes a great companion for families. They are known for their thick, beautiful coat, their calm and mellow outlook, and their friendly nature. While they do require some exercise and grooming, they are generally well-behaved dogs that make good apartment pets. They’re not too active while indoors and they love to cuddle.
Bernese Mountain Dogs have a thick, double coat that is resistant to the elements. Their coat can be black, brown, or white with markings of any of these colors. They shed moderately throughout the year, but more heavily during shedding season. Grooming them regularly will help to reduce the amount of hair around your home.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are notorious for their drooling. They have large, floppy jowls that collect saliva, and they tend to drool more when they are excited or nervous. If you are not a fan of dog drool, this may not be the breed for you!
Bernese Mountain Dogs can be vocal dogs, but only when they have something to say. They may bark to alert you of strangers or animals or just out of excitement if they catch sight of a friend.
If you live in an apartment, you will need to make sure your dog is not disturbing your neighbors with their barking. Proper training and socialization can help reduce excessive barking.
Bernese Mountain Dogs need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. A long walk or a game of fetch in the park will suffice. If you live in an apartment, you may need to get creative with your dog’s exercise routine. Indoor fetch or a dog treadmill are great options for getting your Bernese Mountain Dog the exercise they need while living in an apartment.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are loyal and loving dogs that enjoy being around their family. They are gentle giants that do well with children and other pets. They may be wary of strangers at first, but with proper socialization, they will warm up to new people.
Bernese Mountain Dogs do not like being left alone for long periods of time. If you work long hours or often travel, this may not be the breed for you. They can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for too long, so it’s important to make sure you can provide them with the companionship they crave.
Bernese Mountain Dogs have a lifespan of 8-10 years. While this is shorter than some other breeds, it is still a good amount of time to enjoy your furry friend’s company.
Golden Retriever
Goldies can be left alone for a short while but may quickly become destructive and loud due to boredom and the need to burn off energy.
Golden Retrievers are a medium to large breed of dog and are one of the most popular dogs in America. They make a loving and loyal friend, as well as being gentle and obedient companions. They are often used as therapy or service dogs. They’re also relatively quiet, making them ideal for apartment living. (And they always look like they’re smiling!)
They have a thick, water-repellent outer coat and a soft, dense undercoat. Goldies come in a range of colors, from light gold to dark golden brown. They shed moderately throughout the year and will need regular brushing to keep their coat healthy and free of mats. They shed more heavily during shedding season (twice a year).
Golden Retrievers are also notorious for drooling, so you’ll need to be prepared for some extra cleanup if you live with one of these pups.
Additionally, Golden Retrievers require a lot of exercise – at least an hour per day – so you’ll need to be sure you have the time and energy to commit to taking them on long walks, runs, or hikes. They are high-energy dogs and need to burn off that energy somehow!
Finally, they are very loving and loyal dogs who will quickly become part of the family. However, they don’t like being left alone, so if you work long hours, this may not be the right breed for you. If left alone for too long, they may become destructive. Golden Retrievers typically have a lifespan of 10-12 years.
So, if you’re thinking of getting a Golden Retriever, apartment living is definitely possible. Just keep in mind their exercise needs. Otherwise, you’ll have a loyal, loving companion for many years to come!
Great Dane
You are the center of this gentle giant’s life, and they do not do well if left alone all day.
If you are looking for a big dog breed that is a little less active, the Great Dane might be a good fit for you. The typical Great Dane is a gentle giant and makes a great couch potato. These gentle giants are calm and quiet, making them ideal for smaller living spaces. Here is what you should know about this large and lovable breed:
Great Danes are one of the tallest dog breeds in the world. But despite their size, they’re actually pretty calm and gentle. They are also very patient with children, making them excellent family dogs.
They don’t need a lot of exercise, making them ideal for apartment living. They need daily walks or runs to stay healthy and happy, but they’re content to spend most of their time indoors. Their sheer size means that they’ll need a bit more space than some of the other breeds on this list. If you live in a cramped apartment, a Great Dane may not be the best choice for you.
Great Danes come in a variety of colors and coat types. Some of the most popular coat colors include black, blue, fawn, and brindle. The two primary types of coats are short and smooth or long and wiry. Regardless of coat type, all Great Danes require regular grooming to maintain their healthy coat and skin.
One thing that all Great Danes have in common is their tendency to drool and shed. If you’re not a fan of dog hair on your furniture or floors, this may not be the breed for you. I would suggest that due to these tendencies and their size, they might like to have a couch that is just for them.
When it comes to behavior, Great Danes are generally gentle and loving with family members. However, they can be suspicious of strangers and may bark excessively if not properly socialized.
Also, if you’re gone for long periods during the day, a Great Dane might not be the best fit for your lifestyle. These sweet-natured dogs do best when someone is home to keep them company.
On average, Great Danes live between 8 and 10 years. With proper care and nutrition, your Great Dane can enjoy a long and happy life by your side.
Greyhound
This gentle dog would need specific and gradual training before being left alone during the day. After the training, you’ll need to leave them with something to do or play with when you go to work. They need to learn that your absence is temporary.
You might not think of a greyhound as an ideal pet for an apartment, but they can actually make great roommates. You can save one of these retired racing dogs and give them a well-deserved happy and healthy life. Here’s what you should know about living with a Greyhound in your home.
These lovely dogs present as very athletic, but surprisingly, they are actually quite content to lounge around the house all day. Of course, they do need enough exercise each day. A walk around the block or a trip to the dog park should suffice. But as long as they get their daily dose of activity, they’re perfectly happy to curl up on the couch and take a nap.
Greyhounds have very short coats. This means that they don’t require a lot of grooming, and they’re not likely to shed too much. They also don’t tend to drool or bark excessively.
And while they’re generally calm and quiet dogs, they may become excited when they see other animals or people. So if you have close neighbors, it’s important to be mindful of your Greyhound’s behavior.
Finally, Greyhounds typically have a lifespan of 10-12 years. So if you’re looking for a long-term pet, a Greyhound may be a good option.
Labrador Retriever
Labs can be left alone for a couple of hours, but then they’ll start to wonder where you are and begin to fret, so if there is someone home during the day they will be much happier.
Labrador Retrievers are known for being loyal, loving, and great with families. They are one of the most popular breeds in the world and are known for being friendly, outgoing, and trainable.
Labs come in three coat types: short, medium, and long. They also come in a range of colors including black, yellow, and chocolate. Labs have a reputation for being easy to groom, but that doesn’t mean they don’t require regular brushing, especially if you have a long-coated Lab. All Labs shed, though some shed more than others. Labs are not generally known for excessive barkers or droolers.
Labs are high-energy and playful dogs that need a lot of exercise. A daily walk is a must, and they’ll also appreciate opportunities to run and play. If you live in an apartment, you may need to take your Lab on extra walks or runs outside.
This doesn’t mean they need to run around indoors. When they’re at home they’ll be right next to you, even if there is a basketball court-size living room to run around in. If you have the time and energy to commit to a Lab, they make wonderful and loyal furry friends!
Labrador Retrievers can be left alone for short periods of time, but they do best with someone home during the day. They feel that their place is right beside you. If you get up for a cup of coffee, your lovely Lab will accompany you. If left alone for long periods, they may suffer from boredom and separation anxiety.
They have an average lifespan of 10-12 years.
So, if you’re considering adopting a Lab, apartment living is definitely doable – just be prepared to meet their exercise needs.
Mastiff
Mastiffs are very attached to their owners and feel that their job is to look after them. They can be left alone for a few hours, but they are subject to separation anxiety if alone for longer periods.
The Mastiff is an imposing and very large breed of dog that can make an excellent apartment pet. Here are a few things to keep in mind when considering a Mastiff as your next furry friend:
Mastiffs are one of the largest breeds of dogs, weighing anywhere from 100 to 200 pounds, and are quite often used as guard dogs. They have a short, thick coat that comes in a variety of colors, including brindle, fawn, and black.
Despite their size, Mastiffs are actually quite low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. A weekly brushing should suffice to keep their coats healthy and free of tangles.
Mastiffs are known for being gentle giants with a calm nature, and they love to cuddle. They’re loyal and protective of their family, but can be a little stubborn. They’re also patient and good-natured, making them great around children.
Mastiffs are relatively inactive indoors, but they still need a daily walk or run to stay in shape. But as long as they get their daily dose of activity, they’re content to spend most of their time indoors.
Mastiffs can be left alone for short periods of time, but they prefer the company of their family and can become anxious if left alone for too long.
Mastiffs have a lifespan of 8-10 years.
If you’re looking for a large dog breed that does well in apartments, a Mastiff is definitely worth considering. Just keep in mind that their size may require some adjustments to your living space, such as making sure there’s enough room for them to move around comfortably.
Newfoundland
They don’t mind being left alone too much, but they’ll expect some attention when you get home.
The Newfoundland is a large breed of dog that was originally bred in Canada to help fishermen haul in their nets. These days, they make great family pets and are known for being patient and good with children.
They are relatively inactive indoors, so they don’t need a lot of space to run around, but their size does mean that they’ll need more space to move around the apartment than some of the other breeds on this list.
Newfoundlands have a reputation for being very quiet dogs. They need daily walks or runs to stay healthy and happy, but they’re content to spend most of their time inside.
They have a thick coat that comes in a variety of colors, and they need to be groomed regularly.
If you’re considering getting a Newfoundland dog, be prepared for some drooling and shedding. Newfoundlands are known for their tendency to drool, especially when they’re excited or hot. They also shed a lot, so you’ll need to be okay with vacuuming often. But if you can handle a little extra cleanup, a Newfoundland can make a great addition to your family.
If you’re looking for a dog that can be left alone all day, the Newfoundland is a great choice. This breed is known for being independent and being emotionally low-maintenance, which means they’re perfectly content to spend time on their own.
Of course, this doesn’t mean that they don’t enjoy attention and companionship – they just don’t require it as much as some other breeds. So if you’re looking for a laid-back dog who can entertain themselves, the Newfoundland is a great option.
Overall, the Newfoundland dog is a great apartment companion. If you are looking for a big dog with a gentle personality, the Newfoundland dog may be the perfect breed for you!
Newfoundlands typically have a lifespan of 10-12 years.
Standard Poodle
Standard poodles are fairly independent and can be left alone while you’re at work, but they’ll be looking forward to your return.
Standard Poodles make great apartment dogs thanks to their low-shedding coats and moderate exercise needs. Here are a few things to keep in mind when considering a Standard Poodle as your next furry friend:
The Standard Poodle is a medium to large-sized dog, weighing anywhere from 40 to 70 pounds. They have a dense, curly coat that is low-shedding and hypoallergenic, making them a good choice for people with allergies. While most people think of Standard Poodles as being white, they actually come in a wide range of colors, including black, brown, cream, apricot, and red.
Standard Poodles need to be brushed and trimmed regularly to keep their coats looking neat and tidy. If you’re not up for the grooming task yourself, you’ll need to budget for professional grooming visits every few weeks.
While Standard Poodles don’t tend to drool as much as some other breeds, they can still leave a bit of a mess if they get excited or nervous. And like all dogs, they will shed some hair (though considerably less than most breeds).
Despite their reputation as pampered lap dogs, Standard Poodles are actually quite active and need plenty of exercise. A daily walk or run is a must, and they’ll also enjoy playing fetch or going for a swim, but they don’t require a ton of space to run around. A small backyard or nearby park should suffice.
They’re typically good with families. Standard Poodles are an intelligent dog breed and are loyal, and affectionate dogs that make great family pets. Just be sure to introduce them to any children in the household slowly and supervise their interactions until you’re confident everyone gets along well together.
Standard Poodles can be left alone for short periods of time. While they do enjoy companionship, they’re not the type of breed that requires constant attention. They’re relatively independent dogs that are content to curl up on the couch for a nap while you’re at work or out running errands.
Standard Poodles are fairly long-lived dogs, with most living to at least 12 years of age and some living even longer. This means you can expect to have your furry friend by your side for many years to come.
If you’re looking for a big dog breed that does well in apartments, a Standard Poodle is definitely worth considering.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed reading about the best big dog breeds for apartments! If you are considering adopting a large dog, please do your research to make sure you are prepared to commit to their needs. If you’re not sure whether or not a big dog would be a good fit for your apartment, it’s always best to speak with a veterinarian or animal behaviorist to get their professional opinion.
Adopting a big dog while living in an apartment is possible – it just takes a bit of planning. And, always remember to spay or neuter your pet to help control the population of homeless animals! Keep these things in mind and you’ll be on your way to being a responsible pet parent.
If you’re up for the challenge, do your research and then go out and find the perfect furry friend for your home.
