Is a one bedroom flat to small for a dog?

Question

I live in a one bedroom flat, which although is one bedroom is fairly big and I have room enough for a dog to have its own bed etc in the lounge but it would be quiet for him/her. Im not aiming for a great dane or anything, a small scottie or something of that size. It has its own garden and I work within 10 mins of home so I plan to take it out at lunch etc would others feel that a dog would be happy or is this still unfair on the dog?

Everyone who has answered thankyou, I feel I am doing the right thing in adopting a dog and my flat will be bigger enough for one who will get as much attention and love as I can give! The best answer has gone for the vote as I am chuffed with all the answers!

Answer 1

I see no reason not as long as the dog is a smaller dog and not a really hyper dog. How about checking out the local pound and find a nice rescue. The shelter may have some nice dogs that might meet your personality needs as well as size. Not being a puppy can be a plus. They can hold their business longer, you can see how their size is grown, and they already have the puppy hypers out and you can already tell which ones might be more mellow in nature.

I would definitely crate train. It really helps while you are at work and it is a plus that you will be able to come home for lunch breaks to walk the puppy or dog.

I might add the most love-able part about a dog is they really don't care where you live, they just want to be loved. The size of your house has no guarantee of if you will be a good dog owner or not. I know of several cases even in the news lately to prove that wrong. What you really need to consider is the lifetime commitment. Can you provide the love and care for the life time of this animal. Too many people get a dog and then later even months down the road change their minds. Evita

Answer 2

There are any number of dogs that would suit your small space - especially since it has its own garden etc.

I suggest you go to the local shelter and select a smallish - under 30 lbs ADULT mixed breed dog. I urge adult dogs because an adult has reached his full size, usually are potty trained, and can be left alone for periods of time.

Forget all that nonsense about "puppy imprinting on me" stuff. I promise you that an adult dog, properly trained and socialized by you will become your most cherished confidant in a very short time.

And once you bring Chester home, be sure to enroll in a good obedience class - not only for good manners but socialization with other dogs/owners.

Good luck!

Answer 3

Long story short, with enough exercise a dog is happiest where his people are. I know a HUGE German Shepard who lives in a one bedroom flat. His "mom" takes him out to dog parks, out running, and for rides into the country so he can run. He does fine.
A scottie sounds like an excellent choice (size wise). You might also consider an older shelter dog. Already calmer, already housebroken, plus you'd be saving a life!
Good luck with the new baby!

Answer 4

Some dogs, like Yorkshire Terriers and Shitzus, prefer staying in the home as much as possible. Some even hate to go outside to the 'bathroom'. Remember to walk your pet for exercise and to train him/her in 'bathroom outside etiquette'.

The smaller the dog, the less space you will need. Yorkies are small enough when young puppies, and especially "Tea Cup" sizes, to like the comfort of the inside of your shoe! Be careful because they can get underfoot (smilezz). Tea Cup Yorkies usually do not exceed 5 pounds, but are harder to maintain good health and cost a lot more.

Answer 5

Smaller the better,,
But there are other issues like barking and body corporates and stuff.
get a trained second hand dog or do the whole puppy school thing..
Have you ever had a dog ?
Do you know what you're in for ..?
they're wonderful . Get one from a haven, they're the best ..
They seem to know they've been given a reprieve..
Walk it every day ...
Get a book on it ...Good luck

Answer 6

You know I only read the title of your question and will answer this way.......... Been there done that. Remember when he needs to go out and its cold , raining , less than ideal so to speak , you still gotta go ......... When you come home from work and your deadbeat tired , you still gotta go........
Best friend I have ever had, and the best thing I ever did was, get a dog !
It's does not have anything to do with the size of th home, it's the size of the heart. I just made that up, pretty good..........

Answer 7

the size of the dog isnt nearly as important as the intelligence and the phsycially demands..
Scotties are active dogs then need mental stimulation or will become bored and destructive...
a greyhound would actually be a better choice - they are classic couch potatoes...
but really your best thing would be to get an older (at least 1 yr old) dog or a Shih Tzu type - who do very well at home alone..
Stay away from intelligent breeds like Border Collies, Jack Russels and Terriers...

Answer 8

I think it will be fine as long as you don't go for a high energy breed that needs lots of running room like a dalmation or huskey. We once lived in a one bedroom apt with a doberman, a rabbit, and a cat! (The manager loved us!) But we had lots of nice walking area nearby- the walks were good for us too!

Answer 9

I think it would be ok. Just research the breed you are going to get and the level of exercise and room it needs to be happy. I think a small dog that is fairly laid back would be a good fit for you.

Answer 10

I think that you & your new dog will be fine, you do have the right idea of taking care of it (walking the dog at lunch time, etc)
I love pugs, they are a big dog in a small body, they do need excersice, but they are very gentile, lap dogs and non-barkers.