Choosing the Right Pet for Your Studio Apartment

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Choosing the Right Pet for Your Studio Apartment

Staff Writer · Aug 18, 2009

A studio apartment presents a unique set of challenges if you want to become a pet owner. You may be comfortable with the location, space and environment of a small living space, but it might not be right for certain types of animals. Here are some things to consider before you go searching for a pet.

Noise Level and Proximity to Neighbors

Many dog breeds are very protective of their territory, and they bark at every noise they hear. If you’re set on buying a dog, do your research to try to find a calm and collected breed. If you’re in a studio apartment, a quiet dog might be a necessity. On the other hand, if your apartment doesn’t have neighbors close by, the noise may not be a concern. If that’s the case, and your landlord gives you approval, your only limit is how much noise you are willing to tolerate from a pet.

The Size of the Pet

Studio apartments are small to begin with. Sharing your living space with an animal is another factor you’ll have to weigh. If you appreciate elbow room, a large breed of dog won’t be a good choice. A medium or small-sized dog or a cat would be better for your situation.

The Temperament of the Pet

Some dog breeds need a great deal of space in order to run and get their energy out. Unless you’re willing to make lots of trips to the park with your new best friend, consider getting a dog that won’t require much exercise. Hyperactive breeds tend to get destructive with furniture and shoes if they don’t get their daily workout. Another thing to consider is that some dogs don’t do well unless they have another pet around to play with. These breeds won’t do well in a studio apartment.

Does the Pet Shed?

If you’re set on buying a dog or cat, is it one that sheds a lot of hair? Keep in mind the size of your apartment. On the one hand, there’s a lot less apartment space to clean. On the other, if the pet sheds all the time you’ll always be cleaning.

Alternatives to Dogs and Cats

You don’t have to limit yourself to something as traditional as a dog or cat. A fish tank could be an option, especially if you’re worried about a pet running around on your limited amount of furniture. Small caged animals are another option. A reptile, a hamster, or a rabbit could be a great pet for a studio apartment, and they eliminate many of the concerns about size and noise. A pet bird is another good choice.

The final choice is up to you, but put some serious consideration into the above list before making your decision. A studio apartment might not be the best place for you to have a pet. In that case, you might have to wait until the day when you upgrade to a bigger apartment.

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