10 tips for dog owners on how to help a dog adjust to apartment living

Life with a dog in a city apartment can be joyful and fulfilling, but it also comes with its own challenges. Limited space, nearby neighbors, and city noise can be stressful for a dog if the owner doesn’t know how to manage it properly. Here are 10 practical tips to ensure your dog’s well-being in an apartment.

1. Get your dog used to stairs and/or the elevator

Many dogs may initially be afraid of stairs or elevators. Help them get used to these gradually with treats and positive reinforcement. Also, teach your dog to behave calmly in stairwells and while waiting for the elevator to avoid excessive barking or jumping on people.

2. Provide enough exercise

An apartment doesn’t provide as much space as a house with a yard. That’s why it’s especially important to ensure daily walks and active play. Longer walks or training sessions help your dog burn off excess energy and reduce behavior problems caused by boredom.

3. Train your dog to respect neighbors

In an apartment building, it’s crucial that your dog doesn’t create constant noise. Practice being calm when alone and teach your dog that doorbells or hallway sounds are not reasons to bark. This helps prevent conflicts with neighbors.

4. Get your dog used to city noises

Cars, sirens, crowds, and construction sounds can make a dog anxious. During walks, listen to city sounds together, encouraging calm behavior and rewarding silence. At home, you can also use sound recordings to help your dog adapt to different noises.

5. Walk in different places

Walks are the highlight of the day for an apartment dog. Change your routes and explore different parks or streets. New smells and environments provide mental stimulation and keep walks interesting.

6. Teach your dog to stay alone

Excessive barking or howling is one of the main concerns for neighbors. Gradually train your dog to be alone—start with short absences and increase the time step by step. When your dog learns that you always return, staying alone becomes much calmer.

If you’d like more practical tips on preparing your dog to stay home alone, read our post “10 tips for dog owners when the dog stays home alone”.

7. Pay attention to hygiene

Hygiene is especially important in an apartment setting. Wash your dog’s paws after walks to prevent dirt and bacteria from spreading. Regular grooming—coat care, ear cleaning, and dental hygiene—helps reduce hair, dirt, and unpleasant odors, keeping your home cleaner.

8. Provide mental activities

If your apartment lacks enough space for physical activity, you can tire your dog out mentally. Snuffle mats, treat-dispensing toys, and short training sessions keep your dog’s mind sharp and help reduce boredom.

9. Use the balcony or windowsill safely

Many dogs love to watch the outside world from a balcony or windowsill. If you have one, make sure it’s safe—use barriers or netting to prevent dangerous situations.

10. Create a safe space for your dog

An apartment has many potential stressors, but your dog should always have a place to retreat and rest. Provide a cozy bed or mat in a quieter corner with fewer distractions. This helps your dog relax and reduce stress.

Living with a dog in an apartment requires extra attention and planning, but with the right habits and environment, it can be a very positive and rewarding experience. By ensuring exercise, mental stimulation, and a safe environment, your dog can be just as happy in an apartment as in a house with a yard.