For some dogs, apartment living can send them barking up the wrong tree. Or maybe it’s the lack of a tree – and other reasons – that get some dogs barking. However, with a bit of planning and strategy, it can be done comfortably and happily for both dog and owner, according to Amy Garabedian, dog trainer and owner of the Sit Means Sit location in Troy.
Just as some dogs’ personalities aren’t suited to some owners, some breeds make better apartment pets than others.
“A lot of apartments have size limitations and the smaller dogs tend to be the loudest,” Garabedian says. “If you’re thinking of getting a dog, research the breed. We recommend dogbreedinfo.com. If you’re dealing with a breeder or a rescue, go see the dog.”
Small living quarters and limited or access to a yard can be a challenge for some dogs, especially for owners that have 9-5 jobs.
“Sometimes dogs get loud because they’re bored,” Garabedian says. “Think about taking your dog to a doggie day care two or three times a week, as long as he or she plays well with others.”
Dogs bark for many other reasons. For an anxious dog that doesn’t like to be crated while their owners are away for extended periods, Garabedian suggests putting a blanket over the crate to make him or her feel more enclosed and secure. Sometimes, just leaving a TV or radio on a low volume can reduce stress and loneliness for a pet that’s left alone for long periods of time. However, Garabedian considers bark collars that emit an electronic signal to curb barking and citronella collars that emit a spray to discourage nuisance barking to be last resorts.
“Barking could also be a separation anxiety problem,” Garabedian says. “I recommend Rescue Remedy, which is a holistic approach to dealing with those issues.”
Sit Means Sit holds dog obedience classes in Sterling Heights and conducts in-home training. Contact Garabedian for more information at (248) 688-9450.
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