You want to live among all the action in Columbus’ unique neighborhoods, whether that’s Italian Village or the Short North. But that means you can’t exactly have a large home with 2 acres of fenced-in backyard for your large fur-baby to run around in everyday.
Lucky for us, our canine friends are very adaptable – much more adaptable than us, in fact. With some planning, you and your pup can live your best life happily together in a cozy, stylish space that you’ll both be thrilled to call home.
In this article, we’ll show you exactly how to live harmoniously with a big-breed dog in a small apartment, which Columbus neighborhoods are best-suited for big breeds, how to optimize the space you DO have in your apartment, and how to make sure your doggo enjoys an active, healthy lifestyle, no matter where you live.
Step 1: Find An Apartment That Allows Pets
Finding an apartment in Columbus, Ohio that allows big-breed dogs AND is in one of Columbus’ unique downtown neighborhoods is no easy task. When you want location, character, quality, affordability, AND dog-friendly, things can get tricky fast.
All Lykens apartments are dog friendly. Our staff will work with you to find the perfect place for you and your furry best friend.
Start by checking out our available listings to see if anything catches you — and your doggo’s — eye. But remember, there are certain things to keep in mind based on your dog’s age, breed, and unique needs.
Some things to consider before choosing an apartment with your big-breed dog:
- Does your dog bark a lot? Make sure your apartment walls are thick and sound-proof, and choose a spot with less foot traffic for your dog to bark at. (An apartment on a top-floor might be good for this doggo)
- For older dogs, consider how many stairs your dog can take. Consider an apartment with an elevator, or a unit on the first floor.
Step 2: Find a Dog-Friendly Apartment in the Right Columbus Neighborhood
You’ll want to find a neighborhood that is the right fit for you and your pet. Since large dogs need plenty of exercise, make it easy and convenient to provide them with lots of physical activity.
Look for apartments that are walking distance to dog-friendly walking trails, dog parks and metro park trails. In fact, there are dog friendly trails at most of the 19 metro parks in Columbus. Many of them have fenced-in dog parks as well.
There are even off-leash swimming beaches for your fur baby at Battelle Darby Creek, Walnut Woods and Prairie Oaks Metro Parks.
Columbus City parks such as Goodale Park and Schiller Park in German Village allow dogs for a chill stroll. They allow dogs to be off-leash as long as they will come back to you on command. It’s a great place for your dog to meet puppy friends both big and small. Most of them have handy poop bags ready for you in case you run out or left yours at home.
Additionally, look for pet-friendly restaurants and shops. Many patios in Columbus welcome your furry friends. In fact, Victorian Village alone has an array of dog-friendly spots to eat and play.
Take your dog to a pet supply store such as Pet People so they can pick out their own treats. Most of these stores have wash stations so you can make your dog clean as a whistle before bringing them home.
Step 3: Remember that exercise & adventure makes a happy hound.
Just like us, our dogs crave exercise. They yearn to discover new places and have new experiences.
Having a yard where you let your pup out to roam is not the same as spending time with them. It’s always better to go on adventures with them to unfamiliar places with new sights and smells. Here’s how:
- Determine how much exercise your dog needs based on age and breed.
- Create an exercise routine for your pup and stick to it.
- If you can’t stick to a routine, consider a doggy daycare or hiring a dog walker while you’re at work.
Step 4: Make Your Apartment Space Work For Your Dog
Arrange your space in a way that will make your small apartment more functional for you and your pet. This includes:
- Moving furniture to create more room for open space.
- Keeping clutter to a minimum.
- Rotating your pup’s favorite toys in and out of a closet or other storage space.
- Consider donating or selling items that you don’t use to make more room.
- Make sure you always keep dangerous food and items out of their reach.
- Make a comfy space for your pet with a dog bed and a place to put their favorite toys.
Step 5: Remember that a small apartment doesn’t mean your dog can’t have fun at home!
It’s not the space, but the activity, that counts. Here are some ideas for keeping your dog active, even in a small apartment:
- Hide your dog’s food around the apartment for him to sniff out. This makes for a fun game!
- Give your dog basic training exercises to keep her brain active. There are plenty of dog training videos on YouTube you can try out with your pup. Maybe you can teach them some helpful tricks, like how to help you with the laundry!
- Puzzle games make dogs work for their food, and nothing wears them out faster.
Happy Apartment Dogs in Columbus, Ohio
You just might find that you feel much more connected to your dog in your snug apartment. In fact, your dog will be happier spending time with you on adventures than roaming a yard alone.
Check out all the pet-friendly apartments that Lykens Companies have to offer and let us find you and your pet your next beautiful apartment in the heart of Columbus, Ohio.
