Common questions about living with pets in apartments.
Yes, absolutely. A dog's happiness depends more on having their needs met—exercise, mental stimulation, attention, routine—than on square footage. Many dogs thrive in apartments when their owners commit to regular walks, play, and engagement. The key is matching the dog's energy level to your lifestyle and being willing to provide the care apartment dogs need.
There's no single best pet—it depends on your lifestyle. Cats are often well-suited because they don't need walks and use litter boxes. Lower-energy dogs can work well with committed owners. Fish, small rodents, and rabbits are also good options. Consider your time, activity level, and what you can realistically commit to. See our best pets for apartments guide.
The main concerns are noise and odors. For noise: ensure adequate exercise, address barking/meowing triggers, train actively, use white noise, and be aware of quiet hours. For odors: clean litter boxes daily, wash pet items regularly, and address accidents promptly with enzymatic cleaners. Proactive communication with neighbors also helps. See our noise management guide.
At minimum, adult dogs need 3-4 bathroom breaks daily—typically morning, midday (if possible), early evening, and before bed. At least one walk should be longer for exercise. Puppies and some adults need more frequent breaks. This is a daily commitment regardless of weather. See our dogs in apartments guide.
Use a combination of approaches: white noise to mask sounds, exercise to reduce excess energy, desensitization training (expose gradually with positive associations), and training a "quiet" command. Don't inadvertently reward barking with attention. Managing the environment (closed doors, background noise) while training helps. See our noise management guide.
Yes, many large dogs do well in apartments. Energy level and temperament matter more than size. Some large breeds are calm and low-energy, while some small breeds are very active. A calm Great Dane may be a better apartment dog than a hyperactive Jack Russell. Consider the individual dog's needs, not just their size.
Daily scooping is the most important factor—do it at least once, ideally twice daily. Use quality clumping litter with good odor control. Complete litter changes every 1-2 weeks. Ensure adequate ventilation around the box. Consider covered boxes or furniture enclosures. See our odor management guide.
Yes, vertical space is important for cats. They experience space in three dimensions, and height provides security, exercise, and territory. Cat trees, wall shelves, and window perches effectively expand your cat's perceived space. Vertical enrichment is especially important in small apartments. See our cats in apartments guide.
Cats are naturally crepuscular (most active at dawn and dusk). To reduce nighttime activity: play actively in the evening to tire them out, feed the main meal later in the evening, don't respond to attention-seeking behavior during the night, and provide self-entertainment options. Consistent routines help regulate their activity patterns.
Frequent vacuuming is key—every other day for shedding pets. Regular brushing reduces loose hair. Keep lint rollers handy. Washable covers on pet's favorite furniture help. Choose pet-friendly fabrics (microfiber, leather) that don't hold hair. See our cleaning tips guide.
Always use enzymatic cleaners specifically designed for pet accidents. Regular cleaners don't break down the organic compounds that cause odors. Blot (don't rub) to remove liquid first, apply enzymatic cleaner, let it work according to directions, then blot again. These cleaners also help prevent repeat accidents in the same spot.