If you think a dog is out of the question just because you live in a Nashville apartment, think again. Just as some people can’t control the restrictions and space of Nashville apartment life, some dog breeds are likewise not well-suited for a Nashville apartment. But there are some dogs that will be your best friend and happily dwell in a Nashville apartment just because that’s where you’re going to be. Take a look at some of these breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club that will adapt to a Nashville apartment.
Cocker Spaniels for Your Nashville Apartment
Cockers are a popular breed because they’re relatively healthy and have been mixed over the years with a number of other breeds. Remember that this dog needs plenty of exercise. This isn’t the animal that’s going to be happy with a quick walk morning and evening unless you’re spending plenty of time at play in between. These little guys are also notoriously difficult to housebreak.
Poodles for Your Nashville Apartment
Poodles are brilliant - some say the smartest of the canine world. That sounds like a positive attribute until you consider that this dog is going to find entertainment - whether you’re at home to provide and supervise playtime or not. If you want someone who’s willing to spend time at the park, play and run on a regular basis and still cuddle up in the evening in front of the television, this could be your answer. Remember that grooming is a must and make this a more expensive breed than some others.
Yorkshire Terriers for Your Nashville Apartment
“Yorkies,†as they’re known, are very suitable for Nashville apartment life because they can make do with very little play time. These guys are small, weighing only a few pounds. Coats must be maintained though combing will allow longer spans between grooming appointments. The thing to remember is that the Yorkie is a terrier. He’ll claim your Nashville apartment as his home and is prepared to defend it fully. He’s a cuddler but will also be your best friend when you pick up a leash indicating that it’s time for an outing. With their small size, the Yorkie is a perfect traveling companion as well and can usually be trained to fit well into social situations.
Dachshunds for Your Nashville Apartment
Better known as a “wiener dog,†these are one-person dogs that tend to bond with a single person or possibly a pair but isn’t usually willing to share time and attention with anyone - or anything else. The upside of these canines is that they’re highly suitable for Nashville apartment life. The time you spend playing indoors may very well be sufficient exercise. Add a couple of brief walks each day and the Dachshund will be completely satisfied. Another point in this dog’s favor is that the short-haired version needs little in the way of professional grooming. Long-haired versions require more maintenance. The one downside is that these guys are often tenacious and may be stubborn when it comes to housetraining without a consistent trainer.
Boxers for Your Nashville Apartment
Small dogs are usually preferred by Nashville apartment dwellers but some large breeds may also make suitable Nashville apartment pets. The boxer is a perfect example. Though he needs lots of exercise, most boxers do very well as indoor dogs. They are smart and tend to adapt well to being part of the family, whether that’s a family of two or a larger group. The one thing to keep in mind is that boxers bond with their owners and may want to protect them from outsiders - even when that’s an invited guest. The other point is that boxers may be lonely when left for extended periods. That loneliness may lead to tearing up things - and a dog of this size can tear up a lot.
There are plenty of choices when it comes to selecting a suitable Nashville apartment canine. Take time to ask around and do a bit of research to choose a breed that will work best with your lifestyle.