Finding a New Apartment for You and Your Dog

Posted by Robert Nicholson on January 5th, 2021

In the current market, finding a new apartment can be stressful, and it’s even harder if you have a dog. Nevertheless, it’s important to take extra time, if needed, to find a place where you are your 4-legged friend will be happy. Many apartments claim to be “dig friendly,” but few go the extra mile to create a comfortable environment for your dog.

First impressions count! The office staff should welcome your dog, and possibly even offer a treat. Your dog should be welcome when you view the apartment. Ask the manager if there are other dog owners in the complex you can talk to, to get their impressions.

Watch how your dog reacts while walking through the complex, and the apartment itself. Dogs may detect scents or sounds that you are unaware of, but can be an ongoing cause of stress for your furry buddy.

When you look at the apartment layout, think about how your dog will fit in. Is there a good place your your dog’s bed? A convenient place for food and water dishes?

Walk through the outside areas of the complex. Are there good places for your dog to do their business? (Bonus points if the complex has poop-bag dispensers!) Are there outside water bowls or fountains for dogs?

Extend your walk through the neighborhood. Are there good places to talk or run with your dog? Nearby parks, or dog parks?

Are there dog-friendly coffee shops or restaurants with outside seating?

Ask about the location of the nearest emergency veterinary clinic. Hopefully that’s something you’ll never need, but in an emergency, it’s important to know there’s help nearby.

Once you find an apartment, it’s also important to help your dog settle in. Dogs love routine, and changes can be very stressful.

People are often tempted to buy new pet beds and blankets when they move into a new apartment, but that’s a mistake. In fact, you shouldn’t even wash the bedding... the familiar smells will help your dog adjust to their new living space.

On the day of the move, if at all possible, take your dog for an outing and do something fun while the furniture is being moved. Do your best to tire your dog out... it will make it easier for them to settled down and sleep the first night.

Make your dog a priority when choosing a new place to live, and you’’ enjoy many happy years in your new home.

Apartment Friendly Dogs

Not all dogs are well-adapted to apartment living.  Although there are no hard-and-fast rules, the dogs that do best in apartments are usually small, quiet, and social.  To find dogs that are well-suited to apartment life, try the dog breed selector program at Gerogia Puppies.

These tips provided by 1200 Lakeshore - a pet-friendly, luxury, waterfont apartment in Oakland, California.