As urban housing turns significantly popular and with limited space to establish standard kennels within the homes, many dog parents have preferred having their furry friends under the same roof. One common breed that everyone has been researching and inquiring about is the Golden Retriever due to its popularity worldwide. For those who have been wondering, ‘Can Golden Retrievers live in an apartment’ then you’re in the right place.
Can Golden Retrievers Live in apartments?
Well, the shortest answer to that question is yes! Golden Retrievers can live in apartments but with strict requirements, which we will discuss as we proceed. Many prospective and current dog parents might think these relatively large dogs aren’t fit for apartment living- which is a lie. If you’ve been desiring to have a Golden Retriever in your apartment, you can confidently do so if you’re willing to follow the appropriate requirements.
What’s the ideal apartment size to bring in a Golden Retriever?
After acknowledging that Golden Retrievers can comfortably live in apartments, many dog owners proceed with the idea without considering the ideal apartment size to accommodate their hairy buddy. Being medium to large-sized dogs, Golden Retrievers are assumed to consume more space than their tiny counterparts. Furthermore, Golden Retrievers are high-energy dogs and will barely thrive in a small apartment.
For those who’ve been asking can Golden Retrievers live in small houses, the answer is simply no. If they do, you’ll have compromised many of their privileges, such as movement, exercise, and play space. That also answers the question of can Golden Retriever lives in a small apartment.
However, some experts have advised Golden Retriever parents to let their furry ones into their small apartments only if they allow plenty of outdoor time, among other considerations. Even so, it would be better to just have a medium/large-sized apartment to bring in a Golden Retriever for the best outcomes possible.
Factors to consider before allowing a Golden Retriever into your apartment
Several factors should be considered before allowing a Golden Retriever into their apartments. Assuming you’re in a medium/large-sized apartment, you should consider the following:
1. Physical and exercise needs
Generally, Golden Retrievers are higher-energy dogs than other breeds and therefore have more physical and exercise needs. As you ask yourself Are Golden Retrievers good for apartments, you must acknowledge their high exercise needs and be willing and ready to fulfill them. You can do so by ensuring an outdoor activity in the morning or evening every day, either with a play session across the compound, trips to the nearby dog area, or a nature walk across the neighborhood. All your dog needs is some time off the crib, and they will make the great apartment Golden Retriever you’ve always desired.
2. Noise level
Another crucial consideration to make before bringing a Golden Retriever into your apartment is the noise level. Although Golden Retrievers are best known for their high socialization and companion features, they aren’t attracted to much noise across their home. Therefore, it’s crucial to consider the level of noise in your apartment and the surrounding ones before letting your Golden Retriever in.
3. Training and socialization
Maybe you’ve been asking are Golden Retrievers good apartment dogs for years without the appropriate answer. Now that you’ve got the response, it’s best to learn another factor to consider before deciding. Training and socialization are ideal for every dog breed but more essential for parents seeking to bring up a Golden Retriever within their apartments.
You must properly train your Golden Retriever on how to socialize with kids, visitors, and other pets. Other essential training includes obedience, walking on a leash, crate, and potty training. You should start the training early enough for the best results possible.
4. Mental stimulation
For those who have been asking are Golden Retrievers good in apartments, the answer is yes, but are they ready for the mental stimulation needs that the breed comes with? Being high-energy dogs, Golden Retrievers can subject their owners to constant mental stimulation to reduce boredom and chances of anxiety. You can stimulate your Golden Retriever dog living in an apartment through training sessions, interactive games, puzzle toys, swimming lessons, and more.
5. Pet Policies and financial considerations
Every state or pet association has its unique regarding living with dogs in the same apartment. Therefore, prospective dog parents must find out what their local government says regarding allowing a Golden Retriever into their apartment, alongside other issues. Research on prevailing breed restrictions that could restrict you from living with a Golden Retriever; staying in the lawful line is key. Additionally, dog parents desiring to bring in a Golden Retriever must evaluate the financial requirements accompanied by the decision before settling for it.
6. Others
Other considerations to make before sharing a roof with your Golden Retriever include its age, whereby Golden Retriever puppies may require more space than their adult counterparts, and safety measure, which means your apartment should be hazard-free for your dog to live safely. Remember that Golden Retrievers have high grooming needs due to regular shedding and activeness. Hopefully, you’ve learned about raising a Golden Retriever puppy in an apartment.
Tips for letting a Golden Retriever live in an apartment
Having a Golden Retriever live in an apartment is relatively easy but more enjoyable with some tips and techniques, including:
- Dog-proofing your apartment for more safety.
- Offering adequate training (you can go professional for greater results).
- Keeping the balcony secured.
- Developing a routine for your apartment Golden Retriever.
- Having games and toys handy.
- Engage other dog owners, family members, friends, and a qualified vet.
With the above tips, you might wonder, ‘Can Golden Retrievers be left alone.’ Experts have confirmed that the highest number of hours you can leave your adult Golden Retriever alone is six hours, alongside the above tips and other safety measures such as CCTV monitoring and sound engagement.
Wrap up
While they are not the most obvious dog breed in your apartment because of their significant sizes and energy needs, Golden Retrievers still make ideal apartment dogs. Hopefully, you’ve noted down your to-do list as you strive to become a part of this remarkable journey with your furry friend. Remember to keep your vet informed about everything-absolutely everything.
FAQs
Is Golden Retriever good for first-time owners?
Yes! Golden Retrievers perform tremendously with novice owners due to their high socialization and companion personalities. They are also easily attached to their owners, kids, neighbors, and other pets.
Can a Golden Retriever live in a studio apartment?
While Golden Retrievers are huge and energetic compared to other dog breeds, they can successfully fit in studio apartments but with proper care, high mental stimulation, and exercise.
Can Labradors live in apartments?
Like Golden Retrievers, Labradors can live in apartments if their owners are willing and ready to meet their high exercise and mental stimulation needs. Living in an apartment shouldn’t stop you from acquiring a Labrador as a life companion and best friend.