home › Children › Which dog is better to have in an apartment: advice for a novice owner. The best dog breeds for families with children for apartments and private houses: list, description

Which dog is better to have in an apartment: advice for a novice owner. The best dog breeds for families with children for apartments and private houses: list, description

Have you decided to have a dog in your apartment? How to choose a breed? Dogs for an apartment: list of breeds and care recommendations.

Selection criteria - what should you pay attention to before getting a dog in your apartment?

There is a fairly wide range of factors that should be taken into account when choosing a dog for an apartment. If you live in a small apartment, then you should think about whether your pet will be comfortable living in a small space. In this case, it is recommended to avoid choosing large dog breeds.

The pet's character also plays an important role. It is worth choosing breeds that have a measured temperament, will not get bored alone and will not bark at every occasion.

If you spend the lion's share of your time at work and there is no one to give your pet attention, you should give preference to independent animals that can occupy themselves in the absence of a person. Choose breeds that are not too energetic, otherwise you risk finding damaged items when you return home.

Pets that require careful care are also not the best option for a person with a lack of free time. You should not have dogs with long hair that needs regular brushing and grooming. Otherwise, the fur coat will become tangled and its appearance will lose its attractiveness.

If in your family there are members of the household who suffer from allergies, then you should choose hairless or pet ones. Families with small children should be especially responsible when choosing a dog. Children can injure the animal during play or, on the contrary, cause its aggression. Therefore, preference should be given to calm and balanced breeds.

size– the larger the pet’s size, the more space it needs for a normal life. Therefore, compact and medium-sized dog breeds are suitable for city apartments;
activity– many breeds are hunting or sporting; they have developed working qualities and require active training and long walks. It is recommended to abandon such dogs in apartment conditions, and especially when there is a shortage of free time;
safety– some large breeds can get along in apartments, but owners need to take care of the safety of others, paying special attention to the upbringing and training of their pet.

A particularly important factor in choosing is the size of the pet, so we will consider this point in more detail. A large dog is good because it will become a reliable guard at home. However, such a pet cannot be placed in the bed of its owners, it has a pungent odor, and also needs large portions of meat food.

Miniature breeds will fit perfectly into the spaces of a modest apartment, and at the same time they will feel comfortable. They are odorless; the basis of their diet is dry food, which pets consume extremely economically. The disadvantages of “glamorous” breeds are the lack of guard skills; they themselves need care and require careful care.

Top 5: dog breeds for apartments

1. Funny pug

Main characteristics:

shedding is practically absent;
the complexity of maintenance is minimal, suitable for inexperienced owners;
guard qualities are developed quite strongly;
gets along well with other inhabitants of the house, gets along well with children, protects children and looks after them in the absence of adults;
physical activity – moderate;
training – the breed is inclined to learn.

Bulldogs have a smooth, close-fitting coat, a strong, square body, a broad head and a prominent forehead. There are various colors, but the traditional ones include the following: spotted, fawn, cream, black, brindle, beige, black.

The French are distinguished by their affectionate and kind disposition. The dog adores all family members and does not single out the only owner among them. He loves children very much and enjoys participating in their games. Pets are quite active, but in the absence of household members they behave quietly and calmly.

Dogs are almost ideal for apartments. Animals perfectly sense the mood of the owner: if you are cheerful, then the bulldog will spin around you, entertaining you with tricks, if you are sad, then the dog will lie down next to you, expressing support with all his appearance. The Frenchman has developed guard qualities, warily greets guests and is ready to rush to defense at any second.

The bulldog loves to frolic outside, so you should spend at least half an hour a day walking the dog. It can be hostile towards other relatives, so you should keep your pet on a leash.

Content Features:

wool - does not require special care, it is enough to clean the fur coat once a month with a massage brush, which will not only increase blood circulation in the tissues, but will also affect the appearance of the wool;
bathing - no more than once a month, after the procedure it is necessary to dry the dog with a hairdryer;
claws - monthly circumcision;
eyes - no nitrous oxide is formed;
muzzle – care for folds; after eating, the dog’s “face” must be wiped with a napkin;
– cleansing of excess sulfur once a week with a cotton swab;
food – they enjoy eating dry food and homemade meals. When choosing the latter, the basis of the diet should be the following products: boiled veal, chicken, beef, cereals, sea fish, cottage cheese, eggs. You should not give bulldogs bones, smoked meats, beans, river fish, cabbage and flour products;

poodle;
chow-chow;
Shar Pei.

Small dogs for apartments

If you gravitate toward small dogs, we recommend paying attention to the following pets:

Chinese Crested;
dwarf spitz;
Pekingese;
dwarf dachshund.

The appearance of a dog in the house must be planned and thought out to the smallest detail. Future owners are not always puzzled by the question of how comfortable life together with an animal will become when it grows up. Choosing a four-legged friend requires a thorough study of information about the nature and characteristics of caring for representatives of specific breeds. By choosing a pet based on this knowledge and according to your lifestyle, you can be sure of a long friendly relationship with him, full of love and mutual respect.

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Choosing a pet

Main selection criteria:

size;
coat type;
character;
degree of intelligence;
Possibility of living in an apartment with allergy sufferers;
purpose.

One of the most important criteria is the character of the owner himself and his habits. Temperament, lifestyle, amount of free time and experience in dog breeding are of great importance. It is the kind of life a person lives that influences the choice of a puppy.

When choosing a dog, you should not forget about the working qualities of the animals: for each breed they are listed in the reference literature. Despite the fact that people rarely get pets to use their natural skills, they are nevertheless fixed genetically and are manifested in dogs in everyday life. The guards are always on guard when walking with the owner in the park, and often make the people around him and the owner himself nervous. Representatives of the burrowing hunting breed will be in constant search of prey, and hounds are not averse to running: they need a daily warm-up in the form of a 20–30-kilometer run.

Large breeds

Puppies evoke only sympathy, no matter how much they weigh. Often, a dog is adopted for the look in its eyes or on the principle that “the children liked it.”

As a large dog grows, it requires more space, and costs for maintenance, feeding, and veterinary care increase. The size of the animal must correspond to the owner’s capabilities and physical strength: if the pet is sick, it must be carried in one’s arms. It is correct when large animals live in a private house or cottage, and not in an apartment. Adding to the difficulties is the fact that large breed puppies up to a certain age must be carried for walks in your arms: they are contraindicated from walking up stairs due to underdevelopment of the musculoskeletal system.

If the advantages outweigh and your liking belongs to large breeds, then a Labrador, retriever or Newfoundland are suitable for keeping in an apartment.

Labrador (Labrador Retriever)

According to the owners, this is an ideal dog for keeping in an apartment: loyal, smart, kind, with an easy-going character and excellent training ability. Its balanced character and high intelligence are used in different areas of people's lives: Labradors are the best rescuers, guide dogs, and work as therapy dogs in hospitals.

The breed cannot be called very large, and in reference books it is even classified as a medium-sized breed, but it is still quite large in size - an average weight of 30 kg and 55 cm at the withers. Labradors come in three main colors: fawn, black and brown, as well as several shades of these colors. The coat is short and thick, requiring the use of a brush.

Advantages of representatives of the breed:

1. Love for children and all family members
2. Mental balance.
3. Friendliness.

In addition, Labradors:

1. Excellent walking companions: both on foot and on short runs.
2. Good swimmers and divers will be happy to keep company in the swim.
3. Fun friends and good partners in games.

Negative sides:

1. The constant presence of short, coarse hair in the apartment.
2. Problems with obesity. A regimen and proper feeding are required.
3. Tendency to allergic reactions. They often need special nutrition.
4. Excessive love of love, which is expressed in the desire to communicate with everyone you meet.

The Labrador will make a wonderful friend and will live a long, healthy life, given that, like any large dog, it requires exercise and training to correct its behavior.

Retriever (golden retriever)

The Golden Retriever is very similar in character and temperament to the Labrador Retriever, with the exception of some conformation features and behavioral skills. Representatives of this breed have long wavy or straight hair, and the color is mainly golden or cream. The dog is famous for its hunting skills, enjoys working with waterfowl, is an excellent swimmer and has excellent scent. Therefore, it is often started in houses where the owner prefers to spend his free time outdoors with a gun. This dog will be a wonderful companion in ordinary families and will make friends with children and adults. According to American testing, the Golden Retriever ranks 4th in intelligence among more than a hundred dog breeds.

Among other advantages, these dogs get along well with other animals - both dogs and cats. Caring for a retriever is not difficult, but it is important to accustom it to a routine and not forget about physical activity: walks should not be limited to going to the toilet.

Newfoundland

A good-natured giant nurse - this is a brief description of the Newfoundland, the main breed feature of which can be called boundless love for all living things and the desire to help people where physical strength and tender care are required. This dog is known for its passion for water and its ability to stay on it for hours thanks to its coat structure and natural endurance.

Many representatives of this breed live in apartments and feel great, despite their size, which you should not forget about when purchasing a puppy. Some individuals can reach 80 kg and occupy considerable space in the room. At the withers, Newfoundlands range from 70 cm and above, depending on their build and gender. The animals' fur is soft, thick, with a good undercoat. The breed standard allows for three main colors: black, brown and white-black.

Newfoundlands are excellent rescuers and are often trained in professional water rescue service. Bravery, a sharp mind and the desire to get everything that is there out of the water are the keys to the success of training. In critical situations, when it is not possible to swim to a person from the shore, these courageous animals jump into the water and from a helicopter without fear. Therefore, you can be calm for your life when you go swimming with such a four-legged friend.

Newfies are wonderful babysitters. They fuss with their children for a long time, condescendingly allowing them to do whatever they want with them, and when they’re tired, they’ll simply go elsewhere. Due to their strength and endurance, they are also used as sled dogs. Newfoundlands get along well with other animals and even parrots, allowing them to sit on their heads.

Like any large dog, the Newfoundland requires exercise. It is good if there is a body of water near the house, but if there is none, long walks in a park, field or forest are suitable. Their temperament is self-possessed and calm, they are not fighters, but they will not allow themselves to be offended. However, do not forget that this is not a guard dog and is potentially good-natured towards people and animals.

Advantages of the breed:

flexible character;
high degree of intelligence;
good learning ability;
communication skills;
obedience;
no noise;
omnivorous.

Minuses:

1. Wool requires care. If combing is not done regularly, it will be everywhere in the apartment and will fall on the dog - it will become difficult to comb the pet on your own.
2. The “slobberiness” of these dogs, the drool hanging from their mouths is not only from hunger, but also from the heat.
3. In the apartment where the Newfoundland lives, air conditioning is needed during the hot season.

Nowadays, many owners use the services of dog salons. Washing, drying, combing, haircut, trimming nails, cleaning ears and eyes - all grooming procedures will be performed by grooming masters. And although this is not a cheap pleasure, it is worth it: comprehensive services from a dog hair salon will allow owners to enjoy cleanliness in the apartment and a pleasant smell emanating from the fur for 2 months.

Medium breeds

Medium-sized dogs are preferred when the size of the living space does not allow having a large animal, but you don’t want to have a small one either. These dogs are courageous, loyal, able to protect their owner from an offender, are highly trainable and do not take up much space.

The versatility of these animals also lies in the quality of the coat of some dogs, the special structure of which, with good care, leaves the room clean.

Miniature Schnauzer

The Mittel or Medium Schnauzer is an excellent watchdog, a devoted friend, getting along well with all family members, including children. The Miniature Schnauzer also has another important quality: it does not shed as intensely as other animals. In the information literature on dog breeds it is written that mittels do not shed at all, but the experience of dog breeders shows that a small amount of hair still remains in the apartment. Trimming and clipping of their coarse coat should be done once every 2-3 months.

The height at the withers of adult dogs is approximately 40 cm, weight - 25 kg. The colors of the breed are black and pepper and salt. Character traits include energy, self-reliance and independence. These dogs are optimal for keeping in an apartment, but you need to take into account that they are not too gentle in character and active.

In addition to the listed qualities, there are additional advantages of keeping a Miniature Schnauzer. He:

1. Easily trainable.
2. Is a tireless playmate.
3. Gets along well with children.

Minuses:

1. Requires significant physical activity: long walks and active games are required.
2. Training is required: self-will and disobedience are the hallmarks of ill-mannered schnauzers.

German boxer

Among medium-sized dogs, the boxer is the best suited for keeping in an apartment. And although this breed was once used for guarding and hunting, nowadays its representatives are simply good companions and family friends. Approximately 50–60 cm at the withers and weighing about 30 kg, the shorthaired boxer will not cause any trouble in care and maintenance. Color - red, black, fawn, brindle and shades of these colors. Boxers are smart, loyal and fearless, have a good character, and love children very much - both their own and others. They adore all family members and do not tolerate separation well, even for a short time.

To maintain cleanliness and order in the house, the dog must be periodically brushed with a special brush, otherwise short, prickly hair will get caught in household items and cover upholstered furniture if the dog likes to sleep on sofas. You should also monitor the condition of your eyes and ears and clean them as needed.

Boxers are very active and playful. They are happy to splash out their excess energy on walks, which should be regular and long. A great way to raise a balanced Boxer is to engage in training and an active lifestyle from puppyhood.

Advantages of the breed:

ease of care;
calm, even character;
good interaction with children.

With proper training, this is an ideal dog.

Cons of a boxer:

1. Distrustful of strangers.
2. Willful, requires a special approach to training: not too soft, but not too harsh.

Small breeds

Increasingly, people's choice falls on representatives of miniature dog breeds, which is due to a lack of time for walks, financial aspects, the age of the owners and simply the love of small pets. A small dog is easier to transport if necessary, it fits well into a small apartment and will be a wonderful friend for all family members.

Small dogs sometimes resemble cats. They can constantly live in the house, go to the toilet in a tray, but at the same time they remain dogs with all their inherent traits: devotion and love for humans, the desire to always be close and protect the owner. These are little friends with big hearts. Often, owners do not train them, although any dog will bring more joy to its owner if it is well-mannered.

Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkies are wonderful dogs for living in any type of apartment. Affectionate, good-natured, very impressive. Owners are happy to give them different haircuts, which is facilitated by the fur of these cute creatures: its structure resembles human hair, and is easy to style (if it is taken care of - washed and combed).

Their small size and cute appearance did not prevent Yorkies from being excellent rat catchers, for which they were bred. However, this period in history ended quite quickly and since then their purpose has been to please the owner’s eye, visit salons, exhibitions and simply be pets. Yorkies have a wide variety of colors - from golden-silver to black-red.

Their character is flexible and even, although the dog can be stubborn. Dogs get along well with children, taking an active part in joint games. The presence of two or more representatives of this breed in an apartment is not uncommon; they get along well together.

On walks, these creatures feel unprotected, especially if they spend most of their time at home. In case of any potential danger, they ask to be held and calmly look at the world from above. It is not difficult to keep them: an adult Yorkshire Terrier weighs a maximum of 3 kg. In cool weather, they need to be worn, although there are also real “fighters” who walk in any weather without jackets and boots: this depends on the lifestyle of the owner and his attitude towards such things.

Advantages of representatives of the breed:

smart enough;
devoted;
amenable to training;
easily accustomed to the home toilet;
are allowed to live in a family where there is an allergy sufferer.

Minuses:

willful if deprived of proper upbringing;
picky eaters;
depend on temperature conditions;
their coat requires daily care.

Griffon

Nature has endowed griffons with an amazing appearance. Resembling both a child and an old man, these dogs are perfect for keeping in an apartment. The breed owes its name not to a mythical animal, but to the French word for “wire-haired.” These miniature dogs, which combine shyness and fearlessness, a sharp mind and eternal childishness, are also easy to care for. Coarse wool that has undergone a trimming procedure once every three months will not cause any special worries to the owner. All that remains is to periodically do preventive maintenance of the nose and eyes: these are the “weak” places in griffons, where secretions accumulate.

These are very sociable animals, good-natured and cheerful, ready to play with household members and other dogs at any time. Griffons are highly trainable, which makes their time in society much easier.

Pros:

love children;
open and simple-minded;
smart;
fearless;
can live in a family with allergies.

Minuses:

susceptible to colds;
can't stand loneliness.

Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested Dog is a decorative breed with an outstanding appearance and all the necessary qualities for keeping in an apartment. There are two varieties of the breed - hairless and powderpuff. With a variety of coats, amazing colors and weights of up to 5 kg, these adorable creatures have long been popular with people who gravitate towards small dogs with a brave heart.

These are wonderful companions, tenderly attached to the owner and all family members, kind and affectionate, but able to show strength of character and ready to defend their interests. Get along well with other pets in the house.

Their advantages:

easy care;
communication skills;
good health;
going to the toilet using a tray;
easy training.

Minuses:

clothes for walking are required;
early socialization required.

Pug

Pugs are very popular among lovers of small dogs: with a weight of about 8 kg, they reach 30 cm at the withers. The wise and slightly sad expression of the muzzle, charm, and devotion to the owner will not leave anyone indifferent. The colors are black and fawn, and many owners claim that temperament directly depends on the color: black ones are more mobile and active. The character of pugs cannot be called flexible, but their cheerful disposition, curiosity and desire to be in the center of events make their stay in the house significant and desirable.

Despite their peculiar appearance, pugs are full of self-esteem and it would be a mistake to treat them as toys. These are dogs full of respect both for the owner and for themselves. Pugs get along well with children and love to play and run, although they do not need excessive exercise. And although they can be trained to use a litter box, they are still not quite couch dogs: they love walks with their owner and communication with their own kind. We must not forget that pugs freeze in winter and suffer from heat in summer: at this time they need to be especially protected.

Their advantages:

friendliness;
tolerant attitude towards other animals in the house;
no need for long walks.

Minuses:

problems with the eyes and nose due to their special structure;
molting;
dependence on temperature conditions.

Regardless of what kind of dog you decide to get, there are general recommendations for upbringing and maintenance:

1. Socialization is a concept characteristic of pets of any breed. It means the development of behavioral skills from an early age, the adoption of general rules of living in the same territory, submission to the owner, who plays the role of “leader of the pack.” Experienced dog breeders claim that a dog that has accepted these rules is much more interesting in communication (in addition to being well-mannered), it is more intelligent and developed emotionally and physically.
2. Mutual respect is an important condition in the union of a pet and a person. Each member of the pack has rights and responsibilities. The dog is no exception. Respecting the interests of an animal is not a whim, but a guarantee of friendship.
3. Taking into account the interests of neighbors. When choosing a puppy, you need to take into account all aspects, including free time. It is wrong to have a dog that cannot stand being alone, as a result of which it will bark all day long while the owner is not at home. This will inevitably lead to conflicts with neighbors. As a rule, this applies to decorative breeds.
4. Nutrition is the basis of physical health. Each breed has something special that needs to be taken into account when choosing a puppy and seek advice from experts.
5. Timely vaccination of dogs exists in order to make the dog’s life longer and protect it from a number of diseases. Pets living indoors are no exception: many pathogens are carried through shoes.

Size does not matter if the dog is healthy, educated, socialized and does not cause trouble to family members and surrounding people.

So, you have finally decided to add another addition to your family. It doesn’t matter whether your child has asked for a new friend or it’s simply time to realize your old dream: in any case, this is a very responsible step. The main thing to remember is that a dog is not a piece of furniture or a fashionable toy. By planning to take home a dog, you are taking a step into the future, because it can become an important part of your life for the next 10-15 years. Agree that such an action requires a balanced approach.

Why a dog is good for a child

Photo: PuppiesAreProzac

When can you get a dog for children?

A picture familiar to many: a child, clinging to the sleeve of his mother (father, grandmother...), begs to buy him a dog, promising at the same time to walk, feed, clean, walk, etc.

Under no circumstances should you immediately give in to your child’s persuasion to get a dog. This decision requires a balanced approach

Return home, hold a “family council” and discuss the possibility of getting a dog with all members of your family.

Moreover, you will definitely need to discuss several obvious things that will affect every member of the household in one way or another. So:

Let's admit: we've exaggerated things a bit. Getting a dog is actually not that scary. Scary is when a living creature suddenly becomes unwanted in the house, turns into a burden, or finds itself thrown out onto the street.

It is very important to imagine the most likely difficulties in advance, and if fear of them does not allow you to get a dog, then it is better to refuse rash actions. It might be worth returning to the discussion of this issue in due course.

If you are not afraid of possible difficulties and you have firmly decided to get a puppy, then it is better, at the same family council, to divide the relevant responsibilities between family members, allocating the child a feasible, but obligatory part. For example, if his duties include walking the dog, then even occasionally he should be allowed to delegate his work to others only for truly good reasons.

Predicted participation of the child in raising the dog:

a child under 6 years old - the dog is definitely in the full care of the parents, the child only communicates and plays with the animal under the control of the elders;
6-12 years old - the child can partially take care of the animal (at first just put a bowl of food, comb it, etc., and at an older age - walk it and participate in training);
over 12 years old - the child can be entrusted with most of the upbringing and care of the dog.

Of course, these limits are very approximate and depend not only on the age, but also on the psychology of the child, because even a ten-year-old child can enthusiastically devote all his free time to his beloved dog, competently training him, while it will be impossible to force a teenager to go out with the dog for a walk.

Do not forget that a large dog can be difficult for an adult man to handle. If you are lucky enough to have such a giant, then you should not trust your child to walk him independently

An important issue is nutrition. Even if your little dog owner is old enough to feed his dog on his own, periodically check that the portion sizes and frequency of feedings correspond to the prescribed standards, and that fresh and clean water is always available to the dog. After all, it is often difficult for children to do routine work, and the price of an error or inattention is quite high.

What kind of dog can be for your child?

It is quite difficult to unambiguously form the image of an ideal dog: it is not for nothing that man has bred many breeds of dogs that differ from each other in appearance and temperament. But there are still a few details that you should pay attention to before a dog takes its place in a family with children.

Character

A dog for a child should not be aggressive. Photo: nejcbole Of course, the main criteria for a “children’s dog” are friendliness and patience, but often a stern-looking guard who will never offend a child can also become a faithful friend. But if a dog shows signs of aggressiveness, it definitely does not belong next to a child.

Size

Remember: dogs grow even faster than children. Before you know it, your miniature new pet will reach its natural size, so take this into account when choosing a breed (if you are getting a mongrel puppy, then there will be a certain element of surprise in its future height and weight).

It is risky to take both miniature dogs and giant dogs into a family with very young children: a three-year-old child can unintentionally injure a Chihuahua, and a grown-up Newfoundland with one accidental movement of the tail can easily knock down a too-small owner.

Male or female

A very personal choice. There is an opinion among dog handlers that bitches have a softer character, they are more gentle and affectionate, and are more strongly attached to their owner. Males usually look more impressive, and their well-being and psychological state do not depend on the period of estrus and pregnancy.

In fact, the gender of your future dog is not so critical: in any case, with proper upbringing, it will become the very close friend you are looking for for yourself and your child.

Dog for child allergies

An allergy diagnosis does not necessarily become a barrier between a child and a dog. If your child is allergic, it is necessary to determine whether dog allergens are causing the reaction (this is determined in the laboratory through a blood test). If the analysis does not reveal a specific reaction to dog allergens, then you can still think about purchasing a puppy. Before doing this, be sure to consult with an allergist.

Hypoallergenic Chinese Crested Dog. Posted by SheltieBoy There are dog breeds that are considered hypoallergenic. This does not mean that all of them do not have hair (it is a common misconception that allergies develop specifically to dog fur), but such dogs release fewer allergenic proteins into the environment.

In particular, the following breeds are considered hypoallergenic:

Bedlington Terrier
Miniature Poodle
Chinese Crested
Black Russian Terrier

Child protection dog

Most dogs tend to protect “their” people from a possible threat. Moreover, both a formidable Rottweiler and a miniature Pekingese can fearlessly rush at a perceived enemy - the size of the dog does not have much influence on the courage and desire to protect a loved one, but the effect produced on the offender may ultimately depend on it.

Dogs of hunting breeds rarely make good guards: such animals have been selected for centuries on the basis of the manifestation of the hunting instinct and instilled indifference to guard functions

There are methods of training dogs to protect people (so-called bodyguard dogs). If you think that your child may be in danger, then canine specialists will help prepare a reliable guard friend for him. This does not mean that you can simply buy a trained dog and assign it to your child: you will have to go to all training sessions with the four-legged student, learning to interact with him.

Excessive dog care has its downsides. Don't forget that dogs are often distrustful of strangers. If other people even accidentally suffer from the actions of a shaggy bodyguard, you will have to bear responsibility for it. For example: a dog may take another child’s attempt to catch up with its owner, slap him on the shoulder (“slap”), etc. as a threat. The dog can, without hesitation, rush to protect the “ward”, frightening or injuring the children. The situation is unpleasant and will not always be perceived adequately.

Small dogs for children

Often parents compromise with their child and allow him to have a small dog (Chihuahua, Toy Terrier, Miniature Pinscher, Chinese Crested Dog, etc.), hoping that maintaining it will be easier, including from a financial point of view. But don’t think that dwarf dogs differ from other dogs only in size.

Small breed dogs often have complex personalities. They are very characterized by slight excitability and even hysteria, but good nature (typical of their larger relatives) should not be expected from miniature dogs. A child may benefit from a calm, patient dog.

Also, dwarf dogs have a rather fragile body structure, so close contact with very young children can threaten the animals with injury.

If size still matters, consider candidates such as: Welsh corgi, dachshund, pug, miniature schnauzer, many terriers - they are quite miniature, but do not have the above-mentioned disadvantages.

Shelter dog

Taking home a dog from a shelter is one of the best examples of humanity you can give your child. Moreover, it is beneficial even from a practical point of view:

you will receive the dog for free, minus a small donation to the shelter;
you can choose a pet from a variety of animals, different in size, color and other characteristics, because sometimes just one glance is enough to understand that this particular dog is yours;
Most likely, you will not find a truer friend anywhere: animals know how to value goodness;
It is often safer to adopt animals from a shelter than from would-be breeders, of which there are more and more of them—at a shelter, dogs at least undergo treatment and vaccinations.

Photo: Trinagil Even if you are determined to get yourself a dog of a certain breed, it makes sense to look at a shelter: unfortunately, people often betray their friends and the dog you need may be there. Yes, she will not have a pedigree, but do we choose our friends only by purity of origin?

The best dog breeds for children

In many ways, a dog’s attitude towards children is formed during its upbringing. Initially, every dog can get along with a child, especially from childhood and with the proper attitude towards the animal. A mongrel can always be a child’s best friend, but every mongrel dog is individual and in puppyhood it is difficult to understand exactly what the character of the future adult dog will be.

It is believed that a number of breeds have genetically fixed qualities that make them ideal for keeping in families with children. From this point of view, we will evaluate several popular dog breeds.

Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retriever. Photo: Brian Timmermeister He doesn’t just love children - he adores them with all his soul, nurses them, entertains them and never hurts them. Surprisingly friendly and energetic, it is one of the most popular breeds for keeping with children. If you decide to get a Labrador when your child is still very young, be careful - Labradors are very active and quite large. Such a cheerful bubbly simply does not know how to behave with restraint and, in a fit of expression of love, can accidentally demolish a little person.

MirSobak's conclusion: a wonderful dog for children, but it is better to get one when your baby is over 4 years old.

Golden Retriever (Golden Retriever)

Golden retriever. Photo: Dirk Vorderstraße Friendly, active, but balanced and reliable, always happy to serve the owner, for example, bring a wand or toy on command. But the care will not be limited to play: an intelligent dog evaluates the surrounding environment and is always ready to help in case of trouble. The entire owner’s family will be under supervision, including, of course, children, whom these dogs love very much.

Conclusion MirSobak: a wonderful dog for children of all ages.

Welsh Corgi

Welsh Corgi. Photo: luckyno3 are friendly, cheerful, active, people-oriented and fearless. An intelligent and quick-witted dog, despite its small size, is a shepherd dog and will gladly look after your children like a sponsored herd.

Conclusion MirSobak: an ideal small dog for older children.

Irish Setter

Irish Setter. Photo: frame.fusion A very active, intelligent, affectionate and sociable dog with a spectacular appearance. She loves children madly and will be an excellent nanny for them.

MirSobak conclusion: an excellent choice for a family with children of any age, especially for people leading an active lifestyle.

Saint Bernard

Saint Bernard Photo: Thomas Hawk Just a mountain of good nature. This dog is traditionally considered an excellent family dog and loves to play with children. Quiet, outwardly calm and even relaxed, the St. Bernard constantly monitors what is happening around him in order to intervene if necessary - children will be completely safe with him.

MirSobak's conclusion: if you do not live in a one-room apartment, and your child has grown enough to withstand the pressure of an 80-kilogram dog, then the St. Bernard will not disappoint your expectations.

Newfoundland

Newfoundland. Photo: Matty Sides Another good-natured giant who rightly has a reputation as an excellent dog for children. He has all the necessary qualities for this: he is good-natured, patient and gentle with children, and vigilantly watches over them.

MirSobak's conclusion: it is better to get one for an older child, but this limitation is associated only with the large size of the dog.

Pug

Pug. Photo: jllane A small dog, very kind, affectionate and affectionate. moderately active, but very smart, trainable and sociable.

Conclusion MirSobak: a wonderful dog for calm children (over 4 years old), which does not require long walks, but depends on communication with a person.

Beagle

Beagle. Photo: Maskenfrei Fotografie Like most “hunters,” the beagle is a cheerful, good-natured and active dog that loves communication and games in a large company.

Conclusion MirSobak: a cheerful and energetic friend for active children over 4 years old.

American Cocker Spaniel

American Cocker Spaniel. Photo: Ryan Johnson Positive, charming, active, the American Cocker Spaniel is an excellent family dog and a wonderful friend for a child. This relatively small dog, despite its high decorative qualities, leads an active lifestyle.

Conclusion MirSobak: a good dog for families with children of any age.

German Shepherd

German Shepherd. Photo: Nina`H A versatile dog that not only has excellent service qualities, but is also incredibly kind and affectionate with its family members. His high intelligence, recognized by all, makes him a wonderful friend and protector for the child.

MirSobak’s conclusion: when raised together, the “German” will patiently endure antics and protect the foolish child, and for middle-aged and older children he will fully reveal his wonderful qualities.

Collie

Collie. Photo: Ultra DM It is very difficult to mention all the qualities of a collie, among them: activity, affection, curiosity, intelligence and high ability to train, loyalty and playfulness. Scottish Shepherds love children very much.

MirSobak's conclusion: you can get a collie at any time, the age of the child is not important, the main thing is to monitor his correct attitude towards the dog.

Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terrier. Photo: Mike A miniature, energetic, smart and affectionate dog. Due to its small size and delicate structure, it is better to get one when the child is already aware of his actions and will not harm the pet.

MirSobak's conclusion: the Yorkie is a wonderful dog for children (for example, a teenage girl) and family. If you want a decorative, “dwarf” breed dog and your child is already 6 years old, get a Yorkshire terrier, just keep in mind that their coat requires special, more frequent care.

Dogs less suitable for children

Let us repeat once again: a child should not come into contact with an aggressive dog. For the same reason, it is undesirable to have dogs that are not quite rightly called “fighting” dogs. Although these breeds were not originally intended to participate in dog fighting, they were nevertheless selected for them due to the presence of certain qualities (for example, viciousness). In addition, some breeds simply cannot boast of patience or special love for children.

Of course, there are exceptions to any rule, but we still cannot advise having dogs of the following breeds for children under the age of 12:

This is a very controversial list. In fact, most dogs of these breeds can get along well with children: if they do not allow themselves to be treated like a living toy, then at least they will not show aggression or discontent towards the child. The whole point, as always, is in proper upbringing: it’s just that training such dogs will require much more time, effort and experience. Well, if our goal is to find the ideal dog for a child, wouldn’t it be better to choose a more suitable breed?

Whatever dog you choose in the end, you will have a difficult stage ahead – raising it. The innate qualities of an animal alone may not be enough to grow into an intelligent and devoted friend to children. Unfortunately, any dog (even the most purebred) can be spoiled by incorrect and inconsistent attitude and training.
If everything is done correctly, the result will not be long in coming: you will get not only a smart pet, but also a loyal, reliable and sincere companion for your child, who will grow up with him, console him when he is sad and share his joys, and often become the reason for the fun.

Psychologists have noted that children who grow up with animals quickly develop a sense of responsibility for their own actions. This quality is the most valuable for a person and it most likely will not develop if a child plays with soft toys or a computer. This section of our website presents dog breeds for children that can become a true friend for a child.

Children and dogs

In addition, children willingly trust their pets with problems, secrets and fears. According to psychologists, many children think that the dog is always ready to listen to them, console them, and express support. However, do adults always have time for this? Or to notice that something happened to the child?

Based on experiments, experts noted that a dog in the house has an influence on the upbringing of the baby. They were able to prove that it is through the example of a dog that children learn such significant qualities as:

devotion;
honesty;
tolerance;
inability to meanness;
the ability to forgive and love.

For this reason, before refusing to allow a child to buy a pet, you need to think carefully about all the advantages and disadvantages of a dog for children. And our website will help you with this. This section presents the best dog breeds for children and apartments with detailed descriptions and photographs.

Reasons for purchasing dogs for a child

Some adults note that a child needs a dog solely for the reason that the child is afraid of these animals. But there are some nuances here too. If there is a pet, the child will naturally get rid of such fears. In addition, having a pet helps to increase self-esteem and a sense of pride in having such a wonderful companion. But here the question arises: what are the best dogs for children? You will find the answer in this section.

When choosing a breed, you need to remember the age of the child. Even if the child is already a teenager, we must remember that the weight of the dog should not be greater than the weight of the child. Otherwise, he will not be able to keep the pet in a critical situation.

You also need to know everything about keeping an animal. If the child is still very small, and adults want to buy a large dog, then in this case it is worth waiting a little until the baby grows up. Dogs, even trained ones, can, quite accidentally, hurt a baby.

Before you decide which dog to have in an apartment with children, you need to know that small pets are also not always an easy solution. Small animals don't like being rough. These dogs respond to such actions by growling and biting. In this regard, larger individuals are more tolerant. Also, small dogs are very fragile, for this reason they can be accidentally hurt.

There are many breeds, each with their own characteristics and skills. If your child likes to ride a bicycle, for example, then in this case you should choose a dog of the breed that will like the child’s hobby.

At the same time, we must remember that a dog for children in an apartment will in any case cause trouble for adults. Breeds that require minimal care and are not demanding on living conditions are presented in this section.

Updated: 07/04/2018 16:04:54

Pets are not only boundless pleasure and a source of positive emotions, but also work that involves caring for and raising a pet. Accordingly, the choice of a pet must be balanced and cannot be based only on human “want” - sometimes potential owners often underestimate the scale of future worries, and dogs turn out to be an unbearable “toy”. To prevent this from happening, experts from the online magazine EXPERTOLOGY found out which dogs are most suitable for a city apartment and compiled a rating of breeds with a brief description of habits and necessary care.

How to choose a dog

Dog size as one of the determining factors - the smaller the animal, the more comfortable it feels in the apartment. It’s hard for large dogs in a small one-room apartment or even a two-room apartment; they need territory for movement (a house, an enclosure).
Coat length and shedding tendency are also important: although dogs are less allergenic than cats, long-haired individuals and dogs with undercoat shed more often. But this does not mean that it is easier with short hair: it also falls out, but it is much more difficult to collect it from the carpet.
Activity and temperament often determined by breed. Active dogs need space to play and increased attention from their owners; the architectural features of the house (audibility between apartments on the landing and floor) must be taken into account so as not to spoil relations with neighbors. Do you really want a four-legged friend, but don’t have free time? You should buy a dog with a calm temperament.
Salivation different breeds vary from zero to abundant: bulldogs, mastiffs, boxers and some others secrete saliva almost constantly; you need to be prepared for its presence on any surfaces accessible to the dog, including carpets, beds, furniture, shoes. Note: the rating includes dogs of “non-drooling” breeds.
This is not to say that a small dog is necessarily easier to keep and care for than a medium or large dog. Also, one should not confuse temperament and character: if the first parameter is determined by the breed at the genetic level, then the second depends mainly on upbringing. So even a calm dog can become aggressive and dangerous if the owner does not approach it correctly.

Rating of the best dogs for an apartment

Nomination	place	Name of product	Rating
The smallest dogs for an apartment	1		4.9
	2		4.8
	3		4.8
	4		4.7
	5		4.6
The best small dogs for apartments	1		4.9
	2		4.8
	3		4.8
	4		4.8
	5		4.7
	6		4.6
	7		4.5
	8		4.5
Best Medium Size Dogs for Apartments	1		4.9
	2		4.8
	3		4.7

The smallest dogs for an apartment

Such dogs are often smaller in size than cats, which is good for their owners: they don’t require much space, have minimal hair, eat little, and can be picked up, especially on walks.

In first place was the Yorkshire Terrier (England) or simply York, which grows up to 20 cm. Recently, this is the most purchased and sought-after breed of miniature dog: with long hair, they hardly shed, eat relatively little, are physically moderately active and do not require long walks. The peculiarity of the breed is smooth hair, similar in structure to human hair; it does not trap allergens, which is why Yorkies are often kept by allergy sufferers.

Terriers have a calm temperament, the dogs are flexible, friendly to the owner and people they know, obedient and trainable, but you should not have them with children under 7 years old - there is a high risk of accidentally damaging the fragile dog.

A peculiarity of temperament is the so-called “Napoleon syndrome”, that is, the Yorkshire terrier can bark at an animal larger than itself in size.

Caring for long hair is the main difficulty in keeping a Yorkie: it needs to be combed every day, groomed (cut); You will also have to frequently bathe the dog, clean its ears and rinse its eyes, and dress it in cold weather before going for a walk. The diet requires attention: balanced dry food is welcome, and drawing up a “natural” menu will require precision - any deviation will be reflected in the dog’s appearance, or more precisely, on the quality of the coat.

Advantages

Calm temperament;

Can be carried with you;

Easy to learn and train;

"Hypoallergenic" dog;

Flaws

Difficult care;

Typical problems of Yorkies are tooth decay, dislocations due to the fragility of the skeleton;

"The Napoleon Effect";

The second place for mini-dogs was taken by the long-haired Shih Tzu, bred in Tibet. Individuals of the breed are larger than Yorkies - their height reaches 27 cm and their weight is 8 kg. Dogs have the longest coat relative to their body size and require appropriate care: combing, cutting, even styling before shows; bathing the dog once or twice a month is enough. You can simplify the procedure with a short haircut. Shih Tzus are not prone to shedding; hair falls out in small quantities; it is enough to comb them in a timely manner with a short-toothed brush. It is also necessary to clean the dogs' eyes and trim their claws and sanitize the oral cavity with tooth powder once a week.

The temperament of representatives of the breed is peaceful, the dogs are smart, get along well with the owner and familiar people, and calmly tolerate the grooming process. They get along well with children, because playfulness is one of the Shih Tzu's character traits.

Behind the love for a person lies a problem: dogs are very bored in the absence of their owner, they can whine all day long, but they almost never bark, with the exception of some individuals who show their voice at an early age.

The peculiarity of the breed is that it can be trained to be kept completely at home without being walked; the dogs are well accustomed to the litter tray and do not need to communicate with representatives of their “companions”.

Advantages

A small long-haired dog with a peaceful disposition;

Does not bark in the absence of the owner;

Can live without walking;

Does not require frequent bathing;

Flaws

The problem with dogs is tartar and inflammation of the gums; regular sanitation of the mouth cavity is required;

Long hair needs to be brushed every day, which is not always easy.

The Mexican breed of Chihuahua dogs is very popular among lovers of small, medium-haired, barking pets. The dog is very compact, its weight reaches 3 kg, often less than 2 kg, so you can take your pet with you everywhere, putting it in your pocket, bag or bosom.

Chihuahuas have a peaceful temperament: they get along well with people, but they show strong protective instincts when there is a danger to the owner or home - “ill-wishers” will be deafened by ringing and loud barking with an attempt to bite! To prevent such situations for the wrong reasons, it is necessary to start training in time, which dogs can do without much effort: responding to a nickname, the simplest commands will teach the dog to be disciplined.

Chihuahuas get along with children, but they cannot be brought together with babies due to the risk of injury to the animal due to its small size and fragile skeleton. It is not necessary to walk the dogs every day: they go to the litter box, and to be active they just need to run around the apartment.

Caring for your pet is simple: once every week and a half, bathe the fur that gets very dirty, then treat it with conditioner and comb it, and also trim the nails and clean the ears twice a month. For winter walks you will need clothes and shoes.

Advantages

Medium size coat, easy grooming;

Can be taken with you due to its compact size;

Peaceful character with a guardian instinct (more like an alarm);

Flaws

“Mole” syndrome - the dog buries itself under carpets, in bed, etc.

In the absence of education and training, they become willful and uncontrollable.

The Russian Toy has two coat options: short all over the body and combined with long coat along the edges of the large ears and paws, in different colors. The dog is harmoniously built and active.

The temperament of the Russian Toy Terrier is meek and peaceful, which often causes stress due to sharp sounds and certain situations, but in general the dog is not cowardly, non-aggressive, and requires training from an early age. Due to its size and character, it is not suitable for families with small children.

Caring for a dog couldn't be easier: you don't have to walk every day - the dog goes in the litter box; it's enough to periodically bathe the baby, comb and trim his nails. The terrier sheds seasonally, so there are no problems with the fur on the carpet throughout the year. Dogs are unpretentious in feeding, but, like everyone else, they are well kept on a balanced diet.

Advantages

Small sizes - convenient to take with you;

Compliance to training;

Playful character;

Easy care, especially for short-haired terriers;

Flaws

In cold weather, clothing is required for walking;

Tendency to stress at an early age and with improper upbringing.

The long-haired dog, bred in Germany, took fifth place in the rating in the category of miniature domestic breeds. She grows small - about 22 cm and 3.5 kg, but looks much larger due to her thick and long hair, which visually gives volume to the dog. On the one hand, it’s beautiful, on the other hand, it’s inconvenient: the orange can hardly tolerate the heat, and caring for its hair is very difficult, from bathing to combing.

The Spitz has an ambiguous temperament: the dog is smart and trainable, but problems with obedience often arise due to the individuals’ tendency to dominate even over humans. Pomeranians love to bark with or without reason; they are aggressive towards other dogs and strangers.

Care for the Pomeranian Spitz should be organized comprehensively: daily combing with breaking up tangles, checking the condition of the skin for cleanliness, cleaning the eyes and ears once a week (more often only if necessary), trimming the nails.

Advantages

Aesthetic exterior;

Playfulness;

With good upbringing, a peaceful character;

Flaws

Willfulness of individuals, tendency to dominate;

Difficult to care for long and thick hair.

The best small dogs for apartments

The stocky and powerful corgi from the shepherd family has always been in high demand since the breed was developed in Wales in the 10th century from the Swedish Vallhund or Icelandic dog. Animals have spread across many countries and were initially used as shepherds' assistants; today they are decorative pets, very peaceful, sociable and intelligent, easily finding a common language with adults and children, and with animals of other species. Corgis are smart and prone to training - they remember commands very quickly.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi dogs are medium-haired with a thick undercoat that requires frequent brushing. The colors can be different; a characteristic feature is light-colored markings on the back in the form of a saddle. The tail of individuals can be docked in puppyhood; supporters of natural beauty neglect this procedure, which does not prevent the animals from remaining within the standard.

Caring for a short-legged corgi should be daily, but the process is not tiring: after a walk, you should wash the llamas and belly if necessary, brush the undercoat 2-3 times a week, trim the claws and clean the eyes. The dog’s weak point is nutrition: corgis are prone to overeating, so the feeding regimen must be adjusted in both time and quantity.

Advantages

An exceptionally friendly dog;

Easy care;

Compliance to training;

Flaws

Paws and belly should be washed after each walk on the ground.

In second place in the ranking is one of the oldest dog breeds, bred in China several hundred years BC - Shar Pei. It is easily recognized by its blue-black tongue and deep folds in the skin, especially on the face. Short hair without undercoat in color from gray to deep brown, it hardly sheds, and requires only periodic bathing of the dog.

Despite their fighting, hunting and guarding background, Shar Peis are very peaceful dogs. They are inactive, sociable and calm, copy the behavior and temperament of the owner, so they are ideal for living with pensioners and single people, and get along well with children. It should be noted: despite all their peace-loving nature, dogs exhibit active guarding qualities, but they rarely raise their voices without a reason.

Caring for a Shar Pei consists of periodic bathing and trimming its nails; otherwise, the dog is clean and will not make its owners worry. Unpretentious when it comes to food.

The disadvantage of the breed is a tendency to hereditary diseases, therefore, even with the most correct and attentive care, they live on average 10-12 years, rarely crossing the threshold of 14 years.

Advantages

Peaceful character;

Suitable for single and elderly people;

Short coat and easy care;

Does not require active physical activity;

Security qualities;

Flaws

Tendency to hereditary diseases and short life span.

The Basenji dog is called a cat in a dog's body. This comparison is caused by similar habits - the dog likes to climb to high places, one of the few in the family that does not like water, but at the same time it is clean, very curious and willful. The small size of the Basenji with a height of up to 43 cm and a weight of up to 12 kg allows him to feel comfortable in a small city apartment.

The dogs have a friendly and playful character, they get along well with children and adults; other animals are accepted on the territory only if they have lived together since childhood. They require training and education - like cats, they are proud and stubborn, they make their own decisions, often against the wishes of the owner. Beginner dog owners may not be able to handle the Basenji.

Caring for representatives of the breed is simple: wash their paws after a walk if necessary, brush them once a week, and bathe them monthly. In general, Basenjis are clean, take care of themselves, avoid dirt, and avoid puddles. They need intense exercise, regulation of the amount of feed, and warm clothing for the cold season.

Advantages

Clean dog;

Easy care;

Short hair;

The breed is friendly, but willful;

Flaws

Requires an experienced approach and education.

A small dog bred in the mid-15th century in Great Britain, it is perfect for keeping in a city apartment. The Beagle is a short-haired dog with two or three colors, but requires frequent brushing - they shed actively, bathing the dog once a month is enough.

Beagles were originally bred for hunting and herding, which required them to be stamina and active throughout the day. This need continues today - the dog needs physical activity and long, regular walks. But we must not forget about safety - sensing an interesting target, the dog can get carried away and run off the leash at a decent speed. The Beagle is the ideal companion for joggers.

The temperament of representatives of the breed is not always flexible; they are freedom-loving and often willful, so difficulties may arise with their upbringing. In this matter, it is important to remain calm, restrained and pragmatic; with an aggressive approach and the use of the whip method, the beagle becomes aggressive, which is initially unusual for him.

It is important to carefully monitor diet: dogs of this breed have a high appetite, which can lead to obesity. Typical health problems for beagles are epilepsy, hypothyroidism, eye problems with age, and ear infections due to poor ventilation.

Advantages

High activity;

Relatively easy care;

Security qualities;

Friendly and compatible with young children;

Flaws

Tendency to obesity;

Willful and stubborn character;

The need for regular long walks;

Experts gave fifth place in the ranking of small dogs to the French bulldog, recognizable by its dense and powerful build, short muzzle with a forked nose and folded skin. Puppies' ears and tails are docked as early as childhood. The dogs' coat is short and dense, only brindle, white-brindle, fawn, white-fawn, (spotted) colors, all others are considered defective. It is necessary to bathe your pet once or twice a week.

The bulldog was actually bred in the UK for bull baiting, but the dog’s exterior was quickly appreciated by members of French society and the pack appeared with them at events more often than others, the aggressiveness was gradually bred by lovers of the breed and now pets are acquired as active and cheerful four-legged friends. Thanks to its small size and height of up to 33 cm, the bulldog feels great in a city apartment, but it still needs walks. Smart and trainable dogs are suitable for the whole family; they require increased attention from their owners, exhibit protective qualities and do not tolerate competition in the form of other pets.

Health problems for the French Bulldog include diseases of the eyes and respiratory system, including snoring.

Advantages

Active animals;

Trainable;

An exceptionally loyal dog for the whole family;

Security qualities;

Cheerful disposition and playfulness;

Flaws

Bulldog snores;

Careful care of the face (eyes, nose) is required.

One of the oldest breeds of decorative dogs, bred in Ancient China, which has survived to this day almost unchanged. Pugs have a dense build with a height of up to 32 cm, their weight needs to be controlled by proper nutrition - the weight of the animal should be less than 8 g. With small sizes, dogs leave short pile throughout the apartment, as if a large dog lives in the house - their shedding is so active that To avoid the problem, you will need frequent brushing. Such a coat does not provide sufficient thermoregulation and animals have a hard time withstanding food, unlike in cold weather.

The character is flexible, the pug is well trained, is naturally calm and non-aggressive, but adapts to the owner’s lifestyle. The dog is ideal for keeping in a family with children.

Most pugs are light-colored with a dark, flat face with folds that require grooming. Eyes and poorly ventilated ears and paws require attention after a walk. With age, breathing problems and snoring, characteristic of dogs with a flat, folded muzzle, arise.

Advantages

Calm and non-aggressive dog;

Playful disposition;

Suitable for families with children;

Flaws

Problems of obesity, eye and respiratory diseases;

Requires frequent brushing.

The dog of the Chinese emperors, the Pekingese (from the word “sacred”) was released two millennia ago and was intended for the imperial court, today it is available to all interested dog breeders, and occupies seventh place in the ranking.

The appearance of pugs cannot be confused with anyone else: they are dogs up to 25 cm tall, with a flat muzzle, long thick hair and large floppy ears. The upturned nose and expressive eyes make the Pekingese look pretty, but behind the apparent charm lies a stubborn disposition and difficult upbringing - characteristic features of aristocratic breeds. Dogs do not like active physical activity, they are not particularly playful, and make do with short walks. The Pekingese is suitable for aesthetes who are able to maintain a cool head when training an animal; for families with children it is better not to purchase a dog.

Long, thick hair needs to be looked after: brushed often (the dog sheds periodically), and trimmed. The flat muzzle needs cleaning and may cause breathing problems over time.

Advantages

Does not require long walks;

Not picky when it comes to food and not prone to obesity;

Relatively calm temperament;

Flaws

Frequent combing and grooming;

Not suitable for families with children and other animals;

Due to its thick coat, it does not tolerate heat well;

Willfulness and disobedience as signs of a royal aristocrat;

Rounding out the top eight in the ranking of small dogs for apartments is one of the smartest breeds in the world – the toy poodle. Its height reaches 35 cm with a weight of 6 kg, and its distinctive feature is thick curly or corded wool of black, white, apricot, brown, gray (silver) color, which requires timely care. You can do your poodle's hair - the dog sits obediently and enjoys the process.

The dwarf poodle is an intelligent dog, easy to train, at the same time playful and very active, in need of walking, adapts to the mood of its owners and even the rhythm of life, is jealous of other animals and sometimes of household members. Good with children, suitable for families and single people, but not for pensioners. He is careful with strangers, but does not show himself as a guard: he barks, but out of fear. By the way, during active games, barking is also inevitable, as for other reasons, so the apartment must have good sound insulation.

Care is determined by the nature of the coat: grooming, bathing, and haircuts must be regular; after walks, you will have to wash your paws and remove leaves and debris from the curls. The weak point of the breed is diseases of the ears, eyes, as well as a large bouquet of “breed” ailments from deafness to osteochondrosis. The miniature poodle is one of the sickest toy dogs.

Advantages

Playful dog;

Friendliness;

Well trained and trained;

Flaws

Need for careful grooming;

Frequent and loud barking;

Wide range of “breed” diseases;

Best Medium Size Dogs for Apartments

The hunting dog breed was developed in Canada in the mid-19th century. A strong build with a height of up to 56 cm and a weight of up to 40 kg, long hair, a neat elongated muzzle, large hanging ears - the Labrador cannot be confused with any other dog. The color is monotonous from light fawn and golden to rich black or chocolate - the standard allows for different color options. By the way, the Labrador sheds inactively, but requires combing for prevention.

Retrievers are very good-natured dogs, true companions and loyal friends for adults, children, the elderly and lonely people. Labradors are affectionate and can be trusted to look after children. There is no aggression or malice, despite the hunting purpose of these dogs - the need for long walks and physical activity (games, running) remains.

One of the problems of the breed is a tendency to overeat, so careful monitoring of the diet is necessary.

Advantages

An exceptionally kind and affectionate dog;

Compatible with children and even other pets;

Long hair does not require complex care and sheds little;

Flaws

Daily walks of several hours are necessary.

A medium-sized poodle for an apartment is a good option, one of the most common today. Like its younger brother, discussed earlier, it loves to play and be active, but will not impose itself, adapting to the rhythm of the owner’s life. You need to take your poodle for a walk, but on the street strangers he doesn’t like may bark in fear.

Caring for curly or corded hair is difficult - debris and fallen hairs constantly get tangled in the hairs, and tangles form. It is necessary to scratch the dog often and wash it with shampoo periodically. To prevent your dog from gaining weight, careful nutritional control is necessary. The bouquet of diseases in the average poodle is typical for the breed family, as well as in its younger brother.

It is worth noting that the dog is easy to train, very smart and, with proper training, will become an excellent companion for any person over 7 years old.

Advantages

Aesthetic dog;

Predisposition to training;

Lack of aggression;

Friendly and playful disposition;

Flaws

Difficult coat care;

A wide range of breed diseases;

Tendency to bark;

Shepherd dog from Scotland of the sheepdog family takes third place in the rating category of medium dogs for apartments. The breed has absolutely no gene for aggression, so the animal is completely safe for household members and others, but it will keep an eye on its “friends” everywhere, and can be trusted to look after a child. Dogs are smart and quick-witted, they need activity and long walks, they will like agility (a dog sport of overcoming obstacles without physical contact with the owner).

Collies have long hair; short-haired individuals with a thick undercoat are rarely found, but the latter are more suitable for keeping in an enclosure. In any case, preventive scratching with timely cutting out of tangles is necessary. The dog does not require any further special care.

Of the collie health problems, experts note only genetic mutations, due to which some individuals cannot tolerate a number of medications. These are identified by mandatory genetic tests to prevent further breeding.

Advantages

Complete absence of the aggression gene;

Suitable for communication and entertainment of small children;

Intelligence and protection of one's pack (family);

The dog is peaceful and friendly;

Flaws

Genetic diseases of collie breeds in some individuals;

Wool requires periodic combing;

Long walks and physical activity are required;

Attention! This rating is subjective in nature, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

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