The Best Dog Breeds for Small Apartments

Living in a small apartment doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the joy of having a furry companion. Dogs
can adapt remarkably well to apartment living if provided with the right environment, exercise, and
care. If you are renting an apartment, then you have to make sure your landlord will be on board with
you having a dog, and going for a breed that is suitable for apartment living will sure help make your
case.
In this article, we will explore some of the best dog breeds for small apartments, considering their size,
energy levels, temperament, and adaptability to limited spaces. If you love big dogs, don’t worry, we
also have a few recommendations for larger breeds that can fit perfectly well in an apartment.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a charming small breed known for its affectionate and gentle nature.
These dogs are well-suited for apartment living due to their compact size and low-to-moderate energy
levels. They are content with short walks and indoor play sessions, making them an excellent choice for
people with busy urban lifestyles. Cavaliers are also known for being friendly with children and other
pets, making them a perfect companion for families living in small spaces.

French Bulldog
The French Bulldog, with its adorable bat-like ears and affectionate personality, has become a popular
choice for apartment dwellers worldwide. Their small size and calm demeanor make them suitable for
living in limited spaces. While they do enjoy short walks and playtime, French Bulldogs are not overly
active, making them ideal for individuals or families seeking a laid-back, lovable companion.

Chihuahua
As one of the tiniest dog breeds, Chihuahuas are a natural fit for small apartments. They require minimal
exercise, and indoor play or short outdoor walks are enough to keep them happy. These tiny dogs can
form strong bonds with their owners and are known for their loyalty and devotion. Despite their size,
Chihuahuas have big personalities that will bring lots of joy to your compact living space, so knowing
how to train them is key when renting with Chihuahuas, because you want to make sure your neighbors
won’t be disturbed.

Pug
Pugs are famous for their playful and easy-going nature, making them great companions for apartment
living. They thrive on human interaction and can adapt well to indoor activities. Pugs are not excessively
active, and their small size makes them an ideal choice for apartment dwellers looking for a friendly and
sociable pet.

Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier, often referred to as the "American Gentleman," is a small breed with a big heart.
They are known for their friendly, affectionate, and adaptable nature. Although they enjoy playtime,
their moderate energy level means that regular indoor activities can keep them content and happy.

Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu’s luxurious long coat and charming personality have made them a favorite among
apartment dwellers. Despite their regal appearance, these dogs have a friendly and easygoing
personality, making them great companions. Regular grooming is required for their coat, but Shih Tzus
do not demand much exercise, which is why they are well-suited for the apartment life.

Dachshund
The Dachshund, also known as the "wiener dog," may have a long body, but they are small enough to
thrive in apartments. They are playful, intelligent, and adapt well to indoor play sessions. Dachshunds
can be quite vocal, so early training and socialization are essential. With their loving nature and
moderate exercise needs, they can be a great addition to small households.

Large Breeds for Apartment Living
While large dog breeds may not be the typical choice for small apartments, there are a couple of breeds
that, surprisingly, can adapt well to smaller living spaces with the right care and attention.
It’s important to note that large dog breeds may require more exercise and space than smaller breeds,
so potential owners should be prepared to provide adequate daily physical activity and mental
stimulation for these breeds, even in a smaller living space. Additionally, before choosing any dog, it’s
essential to research the breed’s specific needs and consider their individual temperament to ensure
they are a good match for your lifestyle and living situation.

Greyhound
Despite their size, Greyhounds are surprisingly well-suited for apartment living. Known for their gentle
and laid-back temperament, Greyhounds are often referred to as "couch potatoes" because they enjoy
lounging and relaxing. They have short bursts of energy but are generally content with a daily walk and
some indoor playtime. Due to their low grooming and activity requirements, Greyhounds can be an
excellent choice for apartment dwellers who have enough space for them to stretch their long legs
during outdoor activities.

Great Dane
The Great Dane is one of the largest dog breeds, but they can adapt surprisingly well to smaller living
spaces under certain conditions. Despite their size, Great Danes are known for being calm, gentle giants.
They have a low to moderate energy level and often enjoy lounging indoors. However, their size does
mean they need enough room to move around comfortably. If provided with daily walks and playtime,
along with a cozy space to rest indoors, Great Danes can live comfortably in apartments, especially if the
apartment is spacious enough to accommodate their size.
Choosing the right dog breed for apartment living is essential to ensure both your happiness and the
well-being of your four-legged friend. The breeds mentioned above possess qualities that make them
well-suited for small apartments. However, always remember that every dog is an individual, so
consider your lifestyle and the specific needs of the dog before making a decision. With love, care, and
attention, any of these wonderful breeds can make your small apartment feel like a loving and lively
home.

Getting a Pet: Worthwhile Benefits for Seniors

As you age, it can be difficult to find ways to stay active and engaged with the world around you.
A pet can offer an easy solution, providing companionship and giving you purpose on a daily
basis. From helping you remain physically active to reducing stress and providing comfort and
security, Pacific Pups Rescue explains how having a pet can improve your mental and physical
health as a senior:

Enjoying a More Active Lifestyle
Owning a pet can give you the motivation necessary to get up and start moving each day. Going
for walks outside or playing fetch in the house are excellent ways to get some exercise while
bonding with your furry friend. Plus, if you have a dog, you’ll be able to explore places that may
have been off-limits before. Spending time outdoors is beneficial for humans and animals alike!

While you’re at it, think about how you can return the favor and keep your furry companion
healthy. Feeding your pet high-quality food is crucial to their health and well-being. Look for food
made from natural, nutritious ingredients with no added chemicals or preservatives.
Quality pet food should contain proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and other essential
nutrients tailored to the animal’s unique needs. You might try a grain-free product, which can be
easier for pets to digest. Grain-free kibble is sure to please and will provide your pup with a
protein-rich diet from animal sources like poultry, meat, and fish.

Helping You Focus on the Present
Having something else to focus on besides themselves — like tending to another living being —
can help seniors move their attention away from worrying about the past or stressing about the
future. Pets have a way of reminding us that every moment matters, giving us reason to stop
and appreciate our surroundings rather than focusing on things we cannot change. As such, our
furry companions can help us enjoy life’s little pleasures more often while also helping us stay
grounded in reality.

Being Safer at Home
Pets provide much-needed safety and security for seniors living alone at home. Many people
choose dogs because they make fantastic guardians of the home; even if it’s just barking when
someone comes close, the warning is usually enough for intruders to move on elsewhere. If you
are unable or uncomfortable owning a large dog, smaller breeds like pugs or Chihuahuas make
great watch dogs as well!
If you’re a senior concerned about transitioning to assisted living with a pet by your side, you
should see what is available in your area. Many communities are pet-friendly these days, so
your beloved companion can come along to the new home.

Reduced Stress

Johns Hopkins Medicine points out that owning pets can reduce levels of stress hormones like
cortisol significantly compared to those who don’t own pets. Being around animals has also
been linked with increased release of serotonin, which helps improve our moods while
decreasing feelings of loneliness or depression — all without medication! Pets also encourage
relaxation through activities like cuddling or stroking fur; Cherrelyn Animal Hospital notes that
these activities can have calming effects similar to massage therapy.

More Purpose in Your Life
Nothing cures boredom like having someone else in your life that needs your love and care!
Pets make wonderful companions who always greet you with enthusiasm when you come home

from work or errands. Taking care of them can give you something meaningful to focus your
energy on besides yourself, not to mention their unconditional love is unrivaled by anything else!

Summary
At the end of the day, having a pet in your life as a senior can provide you with countless mental
and physical health benefits. Whether it’s enjoying an active lifestyle together outside or
spending quality time inside cuddling up by the fire, your furry friend can give you unmatched
companionship!
Just make sure you’re prepared for the responsibility of caring for an animal. Invest in high-
quality dog food, develop a consistent exercise routine, and find a reputable veterinarian in your
area. And get ready for one of life‘s greatest gifts — a loyal companion who will shower you with
affection!

 

Image via Pexels

The Dangers of Obesity in Dogs And How to Help Your Pup Stay Fit

We dog owners all want our furry friends to live long and happy lives. A healthy dog is a
happy dog, and ensuring that your canine friend is healthy is essential for them to live a
long and fulfilling life. Unfortunately, the latest studies show that obesity in dogs has become
a significant issue with pups in the United States lately. That is a worrying fact because
obesity puts our pet friends at risk for various health issues, such as diabetes, respiratory
problems, and heart disease. In addition, cancer among pets is not rare nowadays, as many
of them suffer from this disease.
But there are lots of things you can do to help our puppies to stay fit and healthy. You can
assist your dogs in maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding several health issues by
monitoring their food intake, increasing their exercise, offering wholesome snacks, and
scheduling routine checkups with the veterinarian. We prepared some essential advice on
the following:
● What is obesity in dogs, and how to recognize it;
● What impact can obesity have on your pup;
● How to help your puppy stay fit;

What is Obesity in Dogs, and How to Recognize it?
Dog obesity occurs when a dog carries excess body fat. On average, a dog is considered
obese if its weight exceeds the allowed weight by 20%. This number, of course, will not be
the same for all dogs. They will vary depending on the breed and sex of the dog.
Dog owners need to know the warning signs of obesity in their pups to take steps before the
issue progresses. The most common symptom of obesity in dogs includes breathing
problems, unwillingness to exercise, excessive panting, an inability to groom themselves
adequately, and a noticeable lack of waistline definition. In addition, you should also be
aware of your dog’s weight and body condition score. You may determine this by feeling
your dog’s rib cage and waist. Your dog may be overweight or obese if you cannot feel its
rib cage or waistline, if they have a sagging belly, or otherwise appear round.

What Impact Can Obesity Have on Your Pup?
If your dog is overweight, his health may be at risk. There are numerous health
consequences that your dog can suffer due to obesity. Some of the most common health
problems associated with obesity in dogs include:
Diabetes
Dogs who are obese can develop diabetes. The longer your dog is overweight, the
higher the chance of developing diabetes. That happens because their bodies have
difficulty controlling their blood sugar levels. Insulin shots and close attention are the only
ways to keep diabetes under control. In addition, this is a non-curable diagnosis, making it
one of the most dangerous.
Heart Disease

Overweight dogs are at an increased risk of developing heart disease. Excess weight strains
the heart, which can lead to heart failure and other cardiovascular problems.

Respiratory Problems
Obese dogs are more likely to experience respiratory issues like shortness of breath and
breathing difficulties. That is because the extra weight strains the lungs and makes breathing
difficult for dogs. If you have an older dog, this issue may become more severe. That
condition is mainly present in breeds already facing breathing difficulties, such as bulldogs
and Frenchies.
Arthritis
Many obese dogs suffer from arthritis, an inflammation of the joints that causes stiffness,
discomfort, and pain. Dogs with arthritis have altered or destroyed the cartilage in their
joints (hip, elbow, etc.), which makes the joint less supple and causes the bones to rub
against one another. This friction can cause discomfort or agony and worsen cartilage injury.

How to Help Your Puppy Stay Fit?
As a pet owner, ensuring your puppy stays healthy and active is important. Puppies have a
lot of energy and need regular exercise to stay fit and healthy. Here are some tips on how to
keep your puppy fit:
Stick to the Routine
Any change of the routine can cause stress to your pup. Consequently, stress may cause
obesity in dogs. Minimize the stress the puppy experiences by reducing exposure to loud
noises, unfamiliar people, or animals. In addition, every change in climate or living place can
significantly impact a dog’s stress level, particularly if the new environment differs considerably

from its previous home. However, to make your relocation as smooth as
possible for your pup, let a skilled team help you with your apartment move in California and
try your best to get your pup as far as possible from stress sources.
Regular Exercise and Check-ups
Firstly, to keep active and healthy, puppies require daily exercise. Walk your puppy or play
fetch with it at the park. Puppies love to play, and engaging in playtime can be a great
way to keep them fit. Play games like tug-of-war or hide-and-seek with your puppy.
Secondly, preventive care and routine vaccinations can help your puppy stay healthy in the
long run. Moreover, regular veterinarian check-ups can ensure your puppy stays healthy and
fit.

Balanced Diet
For their general health and fitness, your puppy needs to eat a balanced diet. Ensure that
your puppy’s food contains all the essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. For the
development and growth of their muscles, puppies require lots of protein. Seek for a high
protein level puppy food that includes animal protein sources like fish, chicken, or lamb.
Puppies require more frequent, smaller meals spread throughout the day. Follow the
nutrition feeding guidelines on the puppy food bag and modify the portion sizes according to
your puppy’s age, breed, and degree of activity.

Final Thoughts
Obesity in dogs poses a severe health risk. As responsible pet owners, we must recognize
the signs of obesity in our dogs and take action to help them stay fit and healthy. You may

take various actions to support your pets’ weight management and physical fitness. They
consist of giving your regular pet exercise, feeding them healthy food, and setting up
frequent veterinary checkups. Prevent obesity and ensure that your pets have long, healthy,
and happy lives by following these guidelines.

 

 

Focus keyphrase: Obesity in dogs
Meta description: A healthy dog is a happy dog! Avoiding obesity in dogs means ensuring
that your furry friend lives a long and happy life.
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164186/

Why Fostering a Dog is a Great Option for Those on The Move

Are you looking to add a dog to your household but are on the move? There are many reasons
why fostering a dog is a great option for you. Dog fostering is a rewarding experience you will not regret.
You will give one dog a much higher chance of adoption. At the same time, you will bring some positive
change into your life. Moving will not be so difficult when you have dog fostering to look forward to
afterward. Once you start fostering a dog, you will notice a positive change in your life.

You get the experience of having a pet without a long-term commitment
Owning a dog and fostering one are two very different things. When you foster a dog, you help it adapt
to a new kind of life. They will only be in your care for a while or until they find a permanent home. This
makes fostering a dog an excellent option for those who move a lot. You will experience pet ownership
without the long-term commitment that comes with pet adoption. When you foster, you don’t miss out
on the love a pet can give. In addition to this, dog fostering is much more affordable than adopting a
dog. If you want to adopt a dog later in life, fostering now will help you. You will learn a lot about what it
takes to be a good dog owner and know what kind of personality to look for in a dog.

Fostering a dog means you can keep your flexible lifestyle
Adopting a dog is a serious decision that takes a lot of planning. You will have to think long-term and know
whether you will be able to provide the dog with everything they need. As someone on the move,
fostering may be the better option for you. You will be able to keep your lifestyle and stay flexible. At
the same time, you won’t have to sacrifice the experience of having a dog. You can opt to foster a dog
for a little while, just until they find a permanent home. People working in shelters will appreciate
what you are doing to help, no matter how long you want to foster a dog. If you are on the move,
chances are you love change and new things. With dog fostering, you get to bring change into your life
every now and then.

It is a rewarding experience
What makes fostering a great option is that it is a very rewarding experience. You’ll notice that you feel
much better emotionally when you foster a dog. Your mood will lift, and you will feel much happier than
before. There will be a new source of love and affection in your life. In the process of taking care of a
pet, you will be able to live a healthier lifestyle, too. Going on regular walks and being outdoors is one of
the ways a pet will improve your health and overall well-being. You will quickly see why fostering a dog
is a great option. With a foster dog, you will never be lonely, either. Speaking of which, dog fostering is a

chance to meet many other people. You can connect with other dog fosters or dog owners. It’s much
easier to socialize when you have a dog by your side.

Fostering a dog will reduce the stress of moving
Moving frequently comes with a number of challenges. Although your lifestyle is exciting, it can also be
very tiring. However, fostering a dog will take away some of the stress of moving. They will be there to
support you when times get rough. A foster dog is all you will need to feel better in no time. Besides
having a foster dog, there are a couple of other ways you can make moving a stress-free process. Firstly,
creating a plan will help you feel more relaxed. You will know that there won’t be any negative surprises
during the moving process. Being on the move a lot means you already know a little bit about what
makes moving easier. You can get all the help you need by hiring professional movers for your next
relocation, such as to California. With all of this combined, your next relocation will be stress-free.

There’s a higher chance of the dog being adopted later on
Fostering a dog has many benefits for the pet and owner. As an owner, you will notice a positive change
in your life. But the most significant change will happen to the foster dog. Although this will be confusing
for them initially, it will change quickly. They will start to feel happier and more comfortable around
people as time passes. Socializing like this will give them a higher chance of a successful adoption once
you are no longer caring for them. They will also be able to adapt to life at home and maybe even learn

a few tricks along the way. The short time they spend with you will drastically change their odds of
finding a new home later. Fostering a dog will benefit everyone involved in the process, including the
dog that needs a new home.

Why fostering a dog is a great option: conclusion
A foster dog can be a great addition to any household. But foster dogs are the best option for those on
the move. They can enrich your life, and you can help them be adopted. If you have ever wondered why
fostering a dog is a great option, it enables you to keep a flexible, exciting lifestyle without losing out on
the experience of having a dog as a pet. You can choose to foster a dog for as long as you have the
means to do so. This rewarding experience will make the moving process less stressful as well. Foster a
dog today and experience all of the many pros that come with dog fostering.

Kw:
why fostering a dog is a great option
Meta:
Are you on the move but want the experience of having a dog? Read about the reasons why fostering a
dog is a great option for you.

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5 Fall Pet Hazards to Avoid

Now that fall is underway, pet parents can look forward to lots of cozy times with their favorite four-legged buddies, from brisk autumn walks to lazy afternoon cuddles by the fireside. 

But as the leaves begin to change color and that end of year excitement starts to fill the air, it’s important to be aware of the potential fall hazards that could pose a danger to your pet.

Changes in our environment and around our homes mean that pets can sometimes get into seasonal trouble if we’re not watching them closely. To help you prepare, here’s a list of five fall pet hazards to avoid, so you enjoy a safe and fun-filled autumn season with your furry family member.

1) Halloween Decorations & Treats

From decorative ghosts and witches to jack-o’-lanterns and candles, Halloween is full of fun (and potentially dangerous) items for pets. 

To help keep your pet safe on October 31st, make sure all Halloween decorations are placed out of reach, especially anything that could easily be knocked over or swallowed.

It’s also important to keep an eye on lit candles, as pets can easily knock them over and start a fire. If you usually have jack-o’-lanterns with real candles inside, consider using battery-operated candles instead. 

And of course, always keep chocolate well out of reach, as it can be poisonous to dogs and cats. Sugary sweets like candy are also best avoided, as they can cause stomach aches and other digestive issues.

2) Outdoor Hazards

As the weather cools down, we often spend more time outdoors enjoying the fresh air. But there are a few things to be aware of when letting your pet out into the yard this fall. 

First, take care to rake up any leaves that have fallen, as they could hide sharp objects like sticks or broken glass.

Second, be on the lookout for antifreeze drips from cars parked in your driveway or on the street – just a few drops of this sweet-tasting but deadly substance can poison a pet. 

Finally, as the days get shorter, remember that there’s less natural light for walking your dog. A reflective vest or leash will help keep them visible to drivers in the early morning and evening hours.

3) Holiday Foods

We all love indulging in seasonal treats during the holidays, but it’s important to remember that many of these foods can be dangerous for pets. 

Chocolate is perhaps the most well-known food hazard for animals, but other holiday favorites like grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, garlic, and onions can also be poisonous to pets.

So, if you’re hosting a holiday gathering this season, be sure to keep hazardous food items properly stored and out of reach of curious furry friends. Here are a few healthy, pet-friendly holiday foods that are safe to share:

 

  • Pumpkin: This popular gourd is packed with nutrients like fiber and beta-carotene, which can help support your pet’s digestive system. Just make sure to remove the seeds and strings before feeding it to them.
  • Sweet potatoes: Another great source of dietary fiber, sweet potatoes are also rich in vitamins A, C, and B6.
  • Apples: Apples are a good source of vitamin C as well as antioxidants, which can help boost your pet’s immune system. Just be sure to remove the core and seeds before feeding them to your pet.

4) Fall Plants

Falling leaves aren’t the only things that change in color during the autumn months – many common plants also undergo a transformation. 

While some of these changes can be breathtaking, it’s important to be aware that some fall plants can be poisonous to pets if ingested. A few of the most common toxic fall plants include:

  • Chrysanthemums: These beautiful flowers can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive drooling in pets if ingested.
  • Autumn crocus: Also known as Colchicum autumnale, this plant contains colchicine, a substance that can cause gastrointestinal upset, kidney failure, and even death in animals.
  • Hydrangeas: While the flower heads of hydrangeas are not poisonous, the plant’s leaves and roots contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and difficulty breathing if ingested.

If you suspect your pet has eaten any part of a poisonous plant, it’s vital to contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately.

5) Cold Weather

As the temperatures start to dip, make sure to take steps to keep your pet safe and comfortable in the colder weather. 

Smaller pets like cats and rabbits should be brought inside to avoid exposure to the cold. Dogs will need a little extra help to stay warm as well, so consider investing in a doggy coat or sweater for them to wear on walks.

Pets can also get dehydrated in the cold weather, so make sure to keep their water bowl filled with fresh, clean water and check it often to ensure it hasn’t frozen over. You can  also give them some extra hydration by adding a little low-sodium bone broth or chicken stock to their food.

Wrapping Up

As you can see, there are lots of potential hazards for pets during the fall season. From environmental changes to foods and decorations, it’s important to be aware of the dangers and take steps to keep your furry friend safe.

By following the tips in this article and preparing ahead, you can help ensure that your pet has a happy and safe time. So, get ready to have a fun, fantastic, and fabulous fall with your best pet pals!

 

About the author: Richard Rowlands is a copywriter and content creator who works with pet and veterinary businesses. When he’s not researching, writing, or creating content plans, he enjoys spending time with his rescue dog, Otto, and exploring new places. Check out his blog for savvy pet parents at richardrowlands.com.

Photo credit: Mr_niceshoot Via Pixabay

PPR and the Pandemic! (What we’ve been up to)

Hello!

  Its been awhile since we posted a blog, and we wanted to update you all on what we’ve been up to at PPR!

  Since the pandemic started, we have been busy rescuing over 100 dogs and cats! We have had so many people step forward wanting to help with fostering, which has been the silver lining in all of this. All of the new pups and kitties have certainly kept us very busy!

Of course, with all of these dogs and cats came very hefty vet bills, and we’ve had so many generous donors throughout all of this, as well as relied on the sales of our dog toy line, Pacific Pups Products. 

We’ve adopted out record numbers of dogs and cats, all to great homes. Even a lot of our longest residents found their forever homes! 

We just started back up filming with the Hallmark channel again. We are grateful to be back showcasing our adoptable dogs on Home & Family – you may have seen Chiquito and King featured on recent episodes: 

Chiquito’s Hallmark Debut!

King’s Hallmark Debut!

We have also released 2 new lines of our Pacific Pups Products dog toys, which is what supports our rescue! 

You can check them out in these two Amazon links:

The largest dog rope toy on Amazon: 

https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=dog+toys+for+aggressive+chewers+dog+rope+toy+for+large+dog&field-brand=PACIFIC%20PUPS%20PRODUCTS%20SUPPORTING%20PACIFICPUPRESCUE.COM&field-asin=B08C7F79JD

Our new, fun 18 pack: 

https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=dog+toys+for+aggressive+chewers+dog+rope+toy+for+small+dog+rope+chew+toy+puppy+chew+toy&field-brand=PACIFIC%20PUPS%20PRODUCTS%20SUPPORTING%20PACIFICPUPRESCUE.COM&field-asin=B0876PRL18

So thank you to everyone who has either adopted, fostered, donated and/or volunteered with us during all of this craziness – we couldn’t have rescued this many animals without you.

 

*We are still a long way from paying off our vet bills, so if you’d like to make a donation, you can do so in the Donate & Volunteer tab