Pet parenting is a long-term commitment as you need to invest time and money to raise a furry companion. When bringing home a dog, be prepared to spend a few hundred dollars every month on food, supplies, and vet fees.

Likewise, you need to set aside daily time for training and bonding. Studies suggest that canines need at least two hours of daily dedicated social time with humans.

That’s not all you need to consider as an aspiring dog parent. You must also have a safe and comfortable living space for your canine co-habitant. You may not think much about it as a first-time dog parent, but you need to ensure the right environment for your pet. Without it, you cannot expect to raise a healthy and happy dog.

Luckily, you can do your bit to create an ideal living space for your furry friends. Here are a few actionable tips dog owners can rely on:

Choose the Right Breed for Your Home

According to the latest statistics, the median size of homes across the US is 2,014 square feet. Things may vary according to location and home type. Apartments are much smaller, providing room up to only 900 square feet. Surprising as it may sound, you should choose the right breed according to the available space.

A dog needs space to move around, play, and rest, and the requirements may increase over the years. Big dogs can get enough indoor and outdoor space in large homes, setting them up for comfortable living. However, apartment dwellers must opt for smaller breeds that adjust to minimal space.

Research your options to choose wisely because there are plenty of perfect fits out there. You may even find smaller versions in specific breeds. A micro bully is an excellent alternative to an American bully if you love this breed.

New Pitbull notes that the micro breed is a mixed one, with animals reaching 15 inches or less. Females are even smaller, with a height of 12-15 inches. These cute little dogs do well in small spaces. A few modifications in your apartment are enough to make a micro bully feel at home.

Create a Designated Space

The best thing about having a furry companion is that it gives you good company, following you around the house. But, at the end of the day, it needs a dedicated space to relax and unwind. At some point, you may also require alone time without your pet.

You should designate a specific area for your dog, whether you live in a small apartment or a mansion. It establishes boundaries and helps the animal feel secure. A comfortable space includes their bed, water, and food bowls, and toys. It should also give the animal enough privacy when it needs to rest, specifically if you have a brood of noisy kids at home.

Set Aside Space for Exercise

Every dog needs some exercise to stay fit and healthy, though the space, time, and intensity of workouts may vary according to breed. As an owner, you must ensure enough area for exercise, regardless of the size of your home. It should be enough to help them burn off energy on the days you cannot give them outdoor time.

A backyard is a plus, but not all homes have it. Consider taking your canine buddy out for daily walks and playing fetch in a nearby park if your home doesn’t have a big backyard. For the indoors, you can designate a specific area for your pet to run around. Remember to keep an eye on its need to relieve itself.

Ensure Safety With Dog-Proofing

Most dog owners tend to overlook safety when it comes to creating a comfortable zone for their canine babies. Ensure it with dog-proofing measures to prevent mishaps and give your pet a safe space, even when it is alone at home.

Here are a few steps to dog-proof your home:

• Remove hazards such as cleaning chemicals, toxic plants, and small objects your dog might ingest
• Cover sharp edges and keep electrical cords out of reach
• Use baby gates to prevent access to certain areas and avoid fall mishaps
• Ensure that balconies and windows are pet-safe
• Invest in a sturdy crate to prevent destructive behavior when you are not home

Regularly inspect your place for potential dangers and address them sooner rather than later. Ample supervision is a worthy effort to keep your dog safe and happy.

Summing Up

A comfortable and safe living space for your pet is essential to its well-being. It also keeps you stress-free when you are away from home. You don’t have to spend a fortune on creating a dedicated zone for your dog. Implementing these measures is enough to keep your canine companion happy, no matter what the size of your house is.