Can a Big Dog Live in an Apartment? Yes, and Here’s How to Make It Work!

So, you’re dying to have a big furry friend but worried about your limited apartment space? I totally get it! The question “can a big dog live in an apartment?” has probably been keeping you up at night. Well, I’ve got great news – the answer is a resounding YES!

As someone who’s lived with a Saint Bernard in a one-bedroom apartment (and survived to tell the tale), I can confidently say that apartment size doesn’t determine your ability to give a large dog a happy, fulfilling life. Let’s dive into why this common myth needs busting and how you can make apartment living work for your big canine companion.

The Big Dog Apartment Myth: Busted!

First things first – let’s address the elephant (or rather, the Great Dane) in the room. Many people believe you need a huge house with a sprawling yard to properly care for a large dog. This simply isn’t true!

According to animal behavior experts, the idea that a dog can’t be happy in an apartment is completely a myth. As Mikayla Park, director of adoptions and education at Wags & Walks, explains “There is no one perfect environment in which to introduce a new dog Everyone has the ability to give a dog a happy and fulfilling life regardless of the size of their home, and the presence of an outdoor yard space.”

Most veterinarians agree that large breeds can be perfectly content living in whatever square footage you have – as long as you meet their other needs. It’s not about the size of your home but rather the quality of care and attention you provide.

Why Some Big Dogs Actually THRIVE in Apartments

Believe it or not, some large breeds are naturally suited to apartment living. Dogs in the guarding or sighthound categories, like Mastiffs and Greyhounds, were developed to work in short bursts and are content to relax for most of the day.

Here are some big dog breeds that adapt particularly well to apartment life:

• Greyhounds – Often called “40 mph couch potatoes,” these sleek racers love nothing more than lounging around
• Mastiffs – Despite their intimidating size, they’re generally calm, quiet, and happy to curl up at your feet
• Great Danes – These gentle giants are typically quiet and well-mannered indoors
• Saint Bernards – They’ll happily snooze the day away after getting proper exercise
• Standard Poodles – Intelligent and trainable, they adapt well to apartment settings

As one veterinarian puts it: “While it is true that big dogs require more space to move around and exercise, with the right care and attention, a big dog can thrive in an apartment setting. It’s all about finding creative ways to meet their physical and mental needs within a smaller living space.”

7 Essential Tips for Keeping a Big Dog Happy in Your Apartment

So you’re convinced it’s possible – great! Now let’s talk about HOW to make it work. Here are my top tips based on expert advice and personal experience:

1. Exercise Is EVERYTHING

This is the single most important factor in having a happy big dog in a small space. As dog trainers often say, “a tired dog is a good dog.”

Your large breed needs regular vigorous exercise – not just quick potty breaks. This means

• Daily walks (1+ hours for most large breeds)
• Trips to the dog park for off-leash play
• Hiking on weekends if possible
• Active playtime indoors

Remember, taking your dog outside just to do his business isn’t getting anybody’s heart rate up! True cardiovascular exercise means going for a run, taking a long walk, or engaging in active play.

Can’t provide enough exercise yourself? Consider:

• Hiring a dog walker or runner
• Finding a doggy daycare with scheduled playtime
• Using a 20-30 foot lead in open spaces to allow more freedom of movement

2. Create Mental Stimulation Indoors

Physical exercise isn’t the only kind your big dog needs! Mental stimulation is crucial for preventing boredom and destructive behaviors.

Try these indoor enrichment activities:

• Puzzle toys and treat dispensers
• Hide-and-seek games
• Scent and nosework activities
• Training sessions (teaching new tricks)

I’ve found that brain games like treat puzzles and Kongs are fabulous ways to create mentally stimulating entertainment. My big dog loves when I hide treats around the apartment for him to find!

3. Establish a Consistent Routine

Dogs thrive on routine! Set up a schedule that includes:

• Regular potty breaks
• Consistent feeding times
• Daily exercise sessions
• Playtime and training

Stick to this schedule every day, and your dog will quickly adapt. A predictable routine helps prevent accidents and reduces anxiety, which is especially important in apartment settings where neighbors might not appreciate canine surprises.

4. Create a Dedicated Dog Space

Even in a small apartment, your big dog needs a space to call their own. This could be:

• A comfy dog bed in a quiet corner
• A crate with a blanket over it (creates a den-like feeling)
• A designated chair or section of furniture (with a protective cover)

Having their own special spot helps your dog feel secure rather than confined in your small space. I’ve found that allowing my dog on certain furniture (covered with a blanket) actually helps him feel less restricted.

5. Plan for Potty Breaks

Apartment living means no quick backyard access for bathroom breaks. This requires planning, especially if you’re on a high floor or have to navigate stairs or elevators.

For housebreaking in apartments:

• Establish a strict schedule
• Consider carrying puppies outside until they learn to “hold it”
• For high-rises, you might start with puppy pads or artificial turf on a balcony
• Bring cleanup supplies for inevitable accidents

A dog trainer I know recommends teaching your dog to signal when they need to go out by ringing a bell or bringing a specific toy – super helpful in apartments!

6. Choose the Right Equipment

Living with a big dog in a small space requires some strategic gear:

• Raised place bed – Teaches your dog to stay in one spot
• Interactive toys – Keeps them occupied when you’re busy
• Treat puzzles – Provides mental stimulation
• Compact storage solutions – For toys, food, and supplies

I personally swear by my dog’s Kong toy – filling it with treats keeps him busy for hours when I need to work or clean.

7. Be a Good Neighbor

Let’s face it – apartment living with a big dog means being extra considerate of those around you:

• Train your dog not to bark excessively
• Practice good leash manners in common areas
• Clean up promptly after your pet
• Consider using a pet-safe carpet cleaner to prevent odors
• Introduce your dog to neighbors to build goodwill

Most complaints about apartment dogs relate to noise and messes. Being proactive about these issues will keep both you and your neighbors happy!

Common Concerns (And Why You Shouldn’t Worry)

Let’s address some typical concerns about having a big dog in an apartment:

“My dog will be bored and destructive”

Not if you provide proper exercise and mental stimulation! Most destructive behaviors stem from boredom and excess energy.

“The neighbors will complain about noise”

With proper training and enough exercise, most big dogs are actually quieter than small breeds. Many large breeds bark less frequently!

“I can’t provide enough exercise”

Get creative! Use dog parks, hire walkers, or find a doggy daycare. Even indoor games can help burn energy.

“It’s cruel to keep a big dog confined”

Not true! What’s cruel is neglecting a dog’s needs – regardless of home size. A well-exercised, mentally stimulated dog in an apartment is much happier than an ignored dog in a mansion.

“My landlord won’t allow it”

This can be tricky, but many landlords are open to negotiation. Offer a larger pet deposit, provide references from previous landlords, or even arrange a “meet and greet” with your well-behaved dog.

Real Talk: When It Might NOT Work

I gotta be honest – apartment living isn’t ideal for EVERY big dog. Some considerations:

• High-energy working breeds like Border Collies or Giant Schnauzers may struggle without a job to do
• Dogs with severe separation anxiety might disturb neighbors when left alone
• Some guardian breeds dislike crowded city life and constant stranger encounters
• If you work extremely long hours and can’t provide adequate exercise, reconsider

As one animal welfare advocate puts it: “It’s important for pet owners to be realistic about their living situation and whether or not it is suitable for a big dog. If a pet owner is unable to meet the needs of a large breed in an apartment setting, they may want to consider alternative living arrangements or a different type of pet.”

The Bottom Line

The size of your home doesn’t determine your ability to be a great dog parent – your commitment does! With proper exercise, mental stimulation, and lots of love, big dogs can absolutely thrive in apartments.

Remember what matters most to your dog: spending quality time with you, getting plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and feeling secure. Provide these things, and your big dog won’t care whether they’re getting them in a studio apartment or a mansion.

So if you’ve been dreaming of a big, lovable canine companion but worried about your apartment size – stop worrying and start planning! Your perfect large-breed buddy is out there waiting for you to bring them home.

Have you successfully raised a big dog in an apartment? I’d love to hear your experiences and tips in the comments below!

The best big dogs for apartments are often low-energy “gentle giants” and surprisingly laid-back breeds like the Great Dane, English Mastiff, Irish Wolfhound, Newfoundland, and Greyhound. These breeds can thrive in small spaces provided their owners meet their exercise and attention needs through daily walks and play, and they are not overly prone to barking.