Miniature dog breeds are created specifically for keeping in a city apartment, but many people prefer big and shaggy friends of a person who can be guards and protect from hooligans. But is it humane to keep a large dog in an ordinary apartment?
Who will fit in the apartment
All dog breeds can be categorized according to the tasks for which they were bred. And large breeds are no exception. Although they are all impressive in size, some of them are intended for protection, some for grazing livestock, and some large dogs are excellent companions. Deciding whether a dog is suitable for housing is based on these categories. Companion dogs will be happy with life in the apartment, for which the main thing is to be close to their beloved owner. These include the Labrador, Labrador Retriever, Dalmatian, Bernese Mountain Dog, Airedale Terrier. The Great Dane, despite its impressive size, is also suitable for an apartment. These dogs are quite phlegmatic. While the owner is at work, they will sleep, but after waiting for his return, they will happily go for a walk.
Some large hunting dogs are also suitable for housing. However, they are not as calm and docile as companion dogs. Frisky hunters need to give vent to their energy. These dogs require long walks. If you like skiing or cycling and can take your animal with you to provide it with a load, you can keep breeds such as greyhounds, hounds, setters at home. However, it is still better to own such dogs for people who at least occasionally go hunting and will be able to take their pets with them.
Hunting dogs are prone to escapes. Attach an address tag to the animal's collar so that people who find the dog can contact you.
Some service dogs can also live in the apartment. For example, the beloved German Shepherd can be content with several rooms. Its close relative, the East European Shepherd, is also suitable for similar housing. But these dogs need an owner who will constantly deal with them and subject them to stress.
The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is not the best choice for an apartment. This large and shaggy dog feels much better in a country house or aviary.
What problems can be with a large dog in an apartment
Keeping even a large dog suitable for an apartment is generally more difficult than a small animal. A shepherd or labrador needs much more food than a poodle or toy terrier. You will either have to buy giant bags of food or constantly cook pots of porridge for the animal. During the moulting of long-haired dogs, the apartment is covered with a layer of fur, even if you regularly comb your pet. If you have children, you will not be able to entrust them to walk the dog, as with an awkward movement, a huge dog can simply drop a small person. But if you are ready to endure all this, in return you will get a loyal and devoted friend to you.
