For many thousands of years, dogs have accompanied humans. Previously, they were used to protect the house and help with hunting. Nowadays these animals are increasingly used as companion dogs. They will never betray, the size of the owner’s wallet is not important to them. The only condition without which they cannot live is the love and care of a person. The parameters for choosing a friend for the soul are different for everyone. This may be a tribute to fashion, or friends have a dog that captivates everyone around with its sweet face or behavior.
Purpose
The main purpose of companions is to share the interests of the owner: daily long runs through the forest, long car trips or lying on the sofa. Man and dog receive only positive emotions from communicating with each other. Dog therapy, also called canine therapy, is a method of alternative medicine. What health problems can you get rid of by communicating with a dog? Normalize blood pressure, cheer up, awaken interest in life - all this is possible for both a simple mongrel and a titled dog. Four-legged companions are widely used for the socialization and adaptation of children with autism.
The doors of the entertainment industry are opening to people with four-legged pets. Restaurants, fitness clubs, cinemas for visitors with animals are no longer uncommon.
Breeds of dogs for apartment security:
Rottweiler
There is still debate about the real homeland of this breed, but most are inclined to believe that it is Egypt. There she was involved in herding livestock, protecting farms and politicians, as well as transporting letters and parcels. The dog's height is 60 cm at the withers, weight is 70 kg. A massive beast that will obey only its owner.
He is very easy to train and loves children; he can give little ones rides on his back. Unpretentious to environmental conditions, it can live both in an apartment and in a private house. Doesn't bark at cats or chase cars. He is friendly towards other dogs.
Separately, it is worth noting these two breeds, which are beyond competition.
Doberman
The fastest guard dog, strong, beautiful, graceful, smart and brave. The Doberman is extremely sensitive; he even sleeps with half his eyes open. This is an excellent option for protecting private property or apartments. However, in order to teach this dog to be obedient, it should be trained from infancy.
Boxer
The Boxer is a very strong and strong dog. He quickly remembers all commands and always obeys his owner. This dog breed is popular all over the world, and very often these dogs are bred as guards. The Boxer gets along well with children and other pets, he will always be a loyal friend and an excellent bodyguard.
Cane Corso
The Cane Corso is a very expensive and rare breed of dog. Animals of this breed are very kind, well-mannered and patient. But when it comes to the life and health of the owner, Cane Corsos turn into a ferocious beast that is capable of tearing anyone apart. That is why this breed of dog is suitable for guarding apartments and private houses.
Representatives of large dogs
There is a belief that large dogs are meant to serve and protect. Use as a companion is far from uncommon. Contrary to general opinion, such pets do not pose a danger to their owners, although they belong to guard or service breeds. They are friendly and are often used as a companion dog for a child. Not suitable for people leading a passive lifestyle. Large dogs need long walks and sufficient exercise. Proper organization of your diet will allow your joints and bones to remain healthy for a long time. It should not be owned by people who have limited living space. Unfortunately, the larger the dog, the shorter it lives. The lifespan of large four-legged friends is short, 9-12 years with good care.
Top 5 most popular representatives:
- East European Shepherd - guard dog. He is an example of intelligence, courage and devotion. Enjoys accompanying on long walks and outings into nature.
Not suitable for keeping in a small room. A reliable protector and at the same time a caring guardian for families with small children. - Leonberger. From the photo of this pet you can immediately see that he is a good-natured, big guy, a family favorite.
These large dogs are famous for their loyalty and intelligence. They have tender feelings for small children. Not whimsical in nutrition and maintenance. But, like all animals with thick fur, they need appropriate care. - German dog. A giant in the dog world. Despite its frightening dimensions, it is famous for its flexible character.
An affectionate, incomparably devoted dog. Has established himself as a companion and guard. To live comfortably, a dog needs space. - Newfoundland. In everyday life referred to as a “diver”. From the nickname it becomes clear that the dog is capable of swimming and loves water treatments. He has a balanced character, attacks of aggression are excluded.
Endless devotion to the owner, readiness to follow on his heels in any situation are the qualities that make the Newfie a family favorite. Perhaps this is the best companion dog for a child of any age. - Dogue de Bordeaux. A representative of large quadrupeds, a little frightening in appearance and with a vulnerable inner world.
A powerful dog with highly developed muscles is perceived in families as a full member. Dogs of this breed are ideal companions for children. They are characterized by a non-conflict nature.
Companion dogs for a private home
Medium and large companion dogs are well suited for a private home. The most popular of them are discussed below.
Labrador
The Labrador is a dog that easily adapts to any conditions. He is characterized by high mobility and excellent instincts. His intelligent and insightful disposition makes him an excellent companion for both children and adults. Due to their high mobility, these dogs require daily long walks, at least half an hour in the morning and 2 hours in the evening. The average lifespan of Labradors is 10 to 13 years.
Airedale
Sociable and confident dogs with a friendly character. They are distinguished by increased courage and intelligence, but despite this, in some cases they can be stubborn. The Airedale Terrier needs regular long walks. He will also need periodic grooming. The average lifespan of an Airedale Terrier is 10-12 years.
Doberman
Friendly and peaceful dogs that quickly become attached to their owner. They are also characterized by firmness, courage and a well-developed protective instinct. The alert and energetic nature of this breed is not for everyone. As a result of errors in education, Dobermans can become aggressive and completely uncontrollable. The average lifespan of this breed is 12-14 years.
Rottweiler
Loyal, obedient and affectionate are the main characteristics of a properly raised Rottweiler. In case of danger, he is always ready to defend those he loves. This breed is recommended only for experienced dog owners. If there are errors in upbringing, the Rottweiler can become quite aggressive and difficult to control. The average life expectancy is 10 to 12 years.
Boxer
The German Boxer is a fearless and confident dog with a strong nervous system. It is distinguished by increased fidelity and attachment to the owner. He is very suspicious of strangers, which in some cases can provoke quite serious signs of aggression. He is extremely unpretentious and clean in his maintenance. The average life expectancy is 12-14 years.
Giant Schnauzer
Representatives of this breed are characterized by a balanced character and a high level of devotion to the owner. The Giant Schnauzer is a brave and self-confident dog, so it can be used for protection. With proper upbringing, it lends itself well to training. Ideal for keeping in a private home. Average life expectancy is 12-13 years.
Chow Chow
Initially, the breed was bred as a fighting breed. But over time, chow chows turned into beloved pets. Has increased loyalty to the family, and especially to the owner. Tends to be aggressive towards strangers. Its degree depends on upbringing. The Chow Chow is not particularly active in physical activity, so a half-hour walk in the morning and evening is quite enough for him.
English Setter
An agile and very fast breed with a balanced psyche. He will always be an excellent company on trips of almost any nature. Definitely needs a long walk and a lot of physical activity. English Setters very rarely bark. Average life expectancy is 12-14 years.
Smooth Fox Terrier
A very active and cheerful breed. Smooth Fox Terriers are very attached to their owner and therefore require constant attention. Its deficiency can cause almost constant barking and howling. In some cases, the Smooth Fox Terrier may show jealousy towards the other inhabitants of the house. Therefore, there can be no talk of keeping cats and dogs of this breed together.
Dalmatian
A confident dog with a well-developed mind. In some cases, they can be stubborn, so their training should be approached quite responsibly. They require almost constant physical activity. Provided early socialization, they get along well with children and other domestic animals. Otherwise, they can show quite strong aggression.
There are many breeds of companion dogs. Each of them has its own advantages, features and disadvantages. Therefore, before purchasing a puppy, it is best to first familiarize yourself with the breed characteristics. In the future, this will avoid problems with education and maintenance.
Representatives of medium sizes
Medium-sized companion dogs are the largest segment of the entire canine world. They are suitable for apartments with small square footage. Life expectancy is longer than that of large breed dogs. With proper care they live 12-15 years. Dogs are friendly towards children and can even look after them. They are loyal to outsiders, but when they feel danger is approaching, they are ready to fight back. Some breeds do not need frequent or long walks. It is enough for them to take a walk in the morning and evening.
Top 5 popular representatives:
- Labrador. The most good-natured creature. The purpose of the breed when bred was to help fishermen.
In modern times, they are used to help people with disabilities; they are excellent guide companions. They have proven themselves to be excellent nannies for small children. - Chow chow. The original bright appearance captivates many who decide to get this dog. The ink-colored tongue looks unusual.
Only the owner will be the object of love and adoration. He will simply allow himself to be adored by the rest of the household. Needs training and long walks. - Welsh Corgi. These dogs will leave few people indifferent. Non-conflict animals by nature get along well with other animals.
Funny short legs are not a reason for laziness; they love to run a lot and quickly. Extremely loyal to the entire family equally. - American Cocker Spaniel. Easy to train, happy to follow the owner's commands, sociable, and has a playful disposition.
Long walks required. - Basset Hound. A hunting dog with the habits of a companion for energetic people. Belongs to the hound family; while walking, it can get carried away, pick up a trail and get lost.
Suitable for families with children, it will be a caring friend for them.
How to choose a companion dog
First of all, you need to decide who to buy - an adult animal or a puppy. For people who want to start from the very beginning (raising a baby, instilling love, training), it is better to place their bet on a puppy and work with him consistently. When choosing a pet, you should pay attention to the following factors:
- pedigree and registration;
- living conditions for the puppy and its parents;
- the behavior of the baby's mother and her temperament;
- whether the breeder did a good job of preventing children and their parents.
If a person with disabilities chooses a dog and does not have time to raise it, it is better to purchase an adult trained dog. Active people who move a lot and play sports also prefer to adopt a dog in its prime.
Hunting dogs are not a good option for a householder - even a large yard is not enough for them when playing. Therefore, the choice of a friend and companion depends on the temperament of a particular breed, on the character and preferences of the guardian. When choosing a dog, you should determine for yourself whether it will be a faithful watchman or an affectionate friend, reacting to guests without aggression.
Small dogs
Decorative dogs are separated from all other breeds intended to perform some kind of work. The main purpose is to bring the joy of communication and the feeling of being needed to people. They lack the hunting instinct and natural anger. They are distinguished by their attachment to the owner and excessive emotionality. Small dogs are not known for their good health. But the life expectancy of decorative dogs is slightly higher than that of representatives of large and medium breeds. With good care they can live up to 15-18 years.
Top 5 most popular small dogs:
- Pug. Never discouraged dogs. They know how to adapt to the rhythm of their owner’s life. For lovers of quiet evenings, a pug will keep you company, sitting next to you on the floor with a warm blanket. He won’t refuse a walk in the park either. They are happy to be trained.
These are terrible cunning creatures who are ready to carry out any command for a piece of cookie. And without encouragement with a tasty treat, they will easily pretend that they don’t know or understand anything. They need a correct diet and selection of food, since not all types of food are suitable for the little charmer. - Chihuahua. A universal companion dog for all occasions. Doesn't take up much space. This dog is taken with them to different places: for a walk, shopping or visiting friends.
The dog does not like long walks and feels great at home within four walls. You don’t have to walk your dog at all to meet its natural needs if you train it to the litter tray in time. - Pekingese. A small dog of imperial blood with the appropriate character. Capable of becoming a friend to a lonely person, a faithful companion and an understanding friend.
This is a proud but smart dog that understands the mood of its owner. The character of an individual farmer is jealous of his adored owner even of small children. The difficulty in keeping him is the problem with a weak heart and eyes. Needs regular visits to the veterinarian.
- Miniature Poodle - An ideal companion dog for a schoolchild. An energetic and cheerful dog. Will not let the owner get bored for a minute. He is easy to train and will happily follow simple commands.
Catchy appearance, perky disposition. Curly fur requires constant care, otherwise the dog will lose its attractive appearance. - Maltese. A sofa dog whose appearance speaks of its purpose to decorate a person’s life. Snow-white wool requires careful and daily care.
It is undesirable to stay in a family with small children: attempts to involve them in games will be perceived by the lapdog as a threat. This is the best companion dog for lonely people.
Best Companion Dog Breeds
The best companion dogs are considered to be representatives of breeds with a stable psyche, excellent health, easy to train and at the same time distinguished by good intellectual abilities that allow them to correctly navigate in complex and constantly changing conditions.
Service dogs
The first among the best breeds are called service dogs:
- Shepherd dogs (German, Eastern European, Belgian, etc.);
- Rottweilers;
- Dobermans;
- boxers;
- Giant Schnauzers;
- Airedale Terriers.
Airedale Terrier dogs
Attention! In accordance with the requirements for the breed, with proper upbringing and training, they have an excellent psyche, are easy to train, hardy, intelligent, and patient. They are chosen as companions by people who want to have a friend and protector nearby who clearly follows commands.
Dogs that everyone in the family can take care of
Shepherd dogs that once faithfully served people became excellent examples of companions. They have in their genes the need to care and protect, they do not attack without reason, they will never harm the owner and his family, those whom they are entrusted with protecting.
Popular among these breeds are:
- Dalmatians;
- Labradors;
- collie;
- toy terriers;
- corgi;
- poodles;
- Aussie.
Aussie - Australian Shepherd
Companion dogs for a private home
The beauty, intelligence, and elegance of the cops also did not leave people indifferent. And many breeds have fully adapted as companions in private homes, where they remain active for many hours every day:
- spaniel;
- drathaar;
- basset hound;
- dachshund;
- Afghan hound.
Basset Hound
Small to medium sized companion dogs
But representatives of breeds that have become decorative are especially popular. Their small size, people-oriented nature, intelligence, devotion and courage make these dogs true friends and companions for people of all ages, professions, and social groups.
The most famous among these dogs are the following breeds:
- pug;
- miniature pinscher;
- Yorkshire Terrier;
- Italian Greyhound;
- chihuahua;
- Pomeranian Spitz;
- Japanese Chin;
- bichon (lapdogs);
- miniature poodle;
- French Bulldog.
Pug breed dog
On a note! Most dog breeders claim that it is not the breed that is most important when deciding to get a companion dog. Both purebred four-legged dogs and mongrels become true true friends if you take a responsible approach to education, training, health and nutrition.
Dogs for the elderly
An ideal dog for an elderly person has the following basic qualities: moderate sociability, calm disposition, good nature, and peacefulness. Such a dog will not rush at passers-by, will not run away, and will not tug on the leash. The temperament of a companion for older people should be flexible and balanced. For older people, an important quality in choosing a friend is ease of care and maintenance. People of advanced age are not able to constantly work with pets. It is recommended to select a dog with a calm character. If an older person is alert and leads a fairly active lifestyle, a dog will become an additional source of joy. Participation in exhibitions and communication with other dog breeders will bring positive emotions into the monotonous life of a pensioner.
Dogs of various breeds are widely used for medical purposes, especially for the elderly. During their fleeting life, dogs give selfless love to humans. The dog becomes a source of joy and relieves loneliness. When interacting closely with a trained pet, an elderly person relaxes and becomes more attentive. A pensioner immersed in his own world becomes more sociable and overcomes depression. Simply stroking a dog reduces high blood pressure in humans.
List of recommended breeds: Spitz, Pekingese, Yorkshire Terrier, Chihuahua.
Companion dog: top 10 breeds for apartments (description)
When choosing a dog to keep in an apartment, you should pay attention to breeds that are well socialized, non-aggressive, can feel normal in a small confined space, are patient and self-possessed, and non-conflicting. This will help avoid problems both with neighbors and on walking areas.
| Criterion | Description |
| Size | Dogs of medium and small build adapt more easily to urban conditions and do not take up much space in small apartments |
| Temperament | Calm, excitable dogs irritate neighbors and require hours of play or exercise |
| Wool | Better smooth, short or medium length, without thick undercoat |
Attention! If one of your family members is prone to allergies, it is best to choose breeds with a coat structure similar to human hair.
Poodle
Sociable, playful, active, they are easy to train, hardy, and have excellent health. The breed has four varieties:
| Variety | Description |
| Big (royal) | Weight – up to 30 kg, height at withers up to 60 cm |
| Average | Weight – up to 20 kg, height at withers up to 40 cm |
| Dwarf | Weight – up to 10 kg, height at withers up to 28 cm |
| Toy | Weight – up to 3 kg, height at withers up to 20 cm |
Poodles are sociable, playful, active
All varieties are suitable for keeping in an apartment, they are distinguished by their activity, sharp mind, sociability, love communication, and are loyal to one owner. Good watchdogs, non-aggressive, inquisitive. The structure of the wool resembles human hair, so it does not cause allergies. When shedding, the hair does not fall off and is removed by combing. Poodles are washed once every 1 - 2 weeks, and cut at least once every 6 months. Lifespan is up to 16 years.
Toy Terrier
Miniature, weighing from 1.5 to 3 kg dogs, the standards allow for both long and short hair. The dog is very active, with proper upbringing it is calm, willingly accompanying its owner both on walks and on shopping trips and travel. Toy terriers are smart, easily accustomed to a tray or diaper, require special nutrition and care, and are prone to gastrointestinal diseases and some breed diseases.
Toy terriers are very active dogs
Chihuahua
Popular due to their miniature size, dedication and cheerful disposition. They do not like strangers, they are suspicious, they can show aggression, but they are loyal to their owner and become excellent companions. The wool of this breed does not have a specific unpleasant odor. Among the disadvantages of the breed are a number of diseases caused by the peculiarities of the body structure: the dog requires constant supervision by a veterinarian.
Chihuahuas are petite in size, selfless and cheerful.
Corgi
This breed is just gaining popularity in our country. At home, in England, they are considered friends of fairies. Welsh Corgis are very reminiscent of miniature shepherds and are just as intelligent and obedient. The dogs are compact, friendly and friendly with other animals. A peculiarity in behavior can be considered the shepherd instinct: the corgi always tries to gather family members into a “flock” during a walk, trying to ensure that no one lags behind or moves aside. They capture the owner’s mood well and adapt well to any conditions. Short-haired corgis need to be combed 2-3 times a week, washed once a week, and after walks in rainy weather, it is necessary to wipe not only their paws, but also their belly. The dog needs a clear feeding regime: corgis suffer from overeating.
Corgis are friendly and friendly with other animals.
Spitz
All varieties of this breed, from miniature to medium-sized, are perfect for a city apartment. They have a memorable appearance, are non-aggressive with normal upbringing, are cheerful, and love outdoor games. They become best friends for school-aged children. Caution is required if there are small children in the family - careless handling can harm the dog. All varieties of the breed require careful attention to their beautiful coat, regular veterinary examinations, and visits to hairdressers.
A Spitz dog is great for a city apartment
Labrador
A very friendly, people-oriented breed. He gets along well with children and can serve not only as a companion, but also as a security guard and watchman. Labradors do not require special care, have good health, and a stable psyche. Suitable for older people.
The Labrador is a very friendly, people-oriented breed.
Dalmatian
Medium-sized spotted friendly dogs are attracted by their white color with black spots. Dalmatians rarely get sick, do not show aggression, are well socialized and trained, and have a calm disposition. These short-haired dogs shed constantly, so you need to brush your pet daily. You need to walk your Dalmatian for at least an hour and a half, 2 times a day, and be firm in your upbringing.
Dalmatians rarely get sick, do not show aggression and are well socialized
Collie
Another breed that became a human companion after the need to use its herding skills disappeared. The breed is considered large - the height at the withers reaches 65 cm. The thick coat requires constant care. Dogs are distinguished by a very calm disposition, a sharp mind, love for children and care for all family members. Collies are people-oriented and can even imitate their behavior: they often fetch newspapers from the box, take out the trash, and bring purchases from the store. An irreplaceable assistant, nanny, faithful friend and companion, playmate - this is how the owners characterize the collie.
Collies have a calm disposition, a sharp mind, love for children and care for all family members.
Beagle
A breed of medium-sized dogs with short hair that requires brushing once a week. Very charming, sociable, get along well in an apartment with other animals, but need physical activity. You need to walk your beagle at least 4 hours a day, making sure that the pet does not run away when carried away: beagles are ready to pursue “prey” for hours, following the scent. They willingly play with children, are non-aggressive, undemanding to living conditions, and are in good health.
Beagle dogs are very charming, sociable, and get along well in an apartment with other animals.
Bulldog
The dog is medium or small in size (there are several varieties), muscular, strong, strong. The breed was bred as a fighting breed, but its guard skills were fully preserved. Education should be approached seriously, as bulldogs consider themselves the leaders of the pack and quickly begin to dominate. They need good physical activity to develop normally, but do not like it. Bulldogs are prone to obesity; irregularities in the diet cause problems in the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. A special approach to feeding is also required to avoid complications with digestion. Increased salivation, snoring during sleep, and shortness of breath are caused by the characteristic structure of the muzzle with powerful jaws and a flattened nose.
Bulldog breed dogs are distinguished by their protective qualities
On a note! When choosing a dog for an apartment, you should take into account the attitude of your neighbors towards animals, your own capabilities, and clearly understand for what purpose, age category, person with what character the animal is being purchased. These and many other nuances will help you choose the right companion and not be disappointed in him.
A dog of "noble" origin"
Separately, it is worth noting the existence of mongrels. As surprising as it may sound, mongrel dogs taken from the street are unusually loyal, affectionate and intelligent. With this behavior, the dog is trying to thank the person who took pity on and sheltered the tramp. Mongrels are easy to train and pick up new knowledge on the fly. Small and medium-sized dogs are suitable for a companion.
Advantages of mongrel dogs:
- You don't have to spend money on buying an animal.
- They are not susceptible to genetic diseases and have good health.
- The lifespan is longer than that of purebred dogs.
- Unpretentiousness in nutrition.
- They have the qualities of defenders.
- Cleanliness.
- High level of intelligence.
Popular dog breeds for a medium-sized apartment
English bulldog
He is calm and balanced, has true English dignity and a sparkling sense of humor. The Bulldog sincerely loves his owners, is non-aggressive, loyal to strangers and dogs, but at the same time he is brave and can stand up for himself. This dog does not bark, so it is unlikely to cause conflict with neighbors.
Welsh – Corgi – Pembroke
Corgis are truly unique and should definitely be mentioned in the list of dog breeds for apartments. It’s no wonder that Welsh Corgis have been the favorite of the Queen of England for decades. The dogs are friendly and energetic, devoid of malice, and love to play. Don't forget that a corgi is a small shepherd, so it will happily work no matter what you do with it. She can become the best friend for children and adults.
Small Poodle
When talking about dogs for home and family, it is difficult not to mention the smart, cheerful, friendly poodle. This medium-sized dog is very active, resilient, and has a balanced temperament. Poodles are sociable and easy to train, non-aggressive towards strangers and other animals. An undoubted advantage is the non-shedding, odorless wool.
Miniature Bull Terrier
He is not an evil monster. This distinctive-looking dog is a cheerful, loyal, active companion. This dog is very playful, trains well, and amazes with its boundless charm. The dog has a balanced character, but at the same time is very courageous. He has a strong build, is quite hardy, and is always ready to accompany his owner.
Border Collie
These smart, well-trained dogs get along well in an apartment, but we can only recommend them to very active people. If the Border Collie does not receive sufficient physical and mental exercise, life with this dog is unlikely to be comfortable. This dog strives to please its owner and receive praise from him. The breed is ideal for canine freestyle, frisbee, agility and other types of canine sports. If your pet will have his own business in life, then kind and sociable border collies are an excellent choice of dog for an apartment.
Bedlington Terrier
The mysterious, sheep-like appearance of this dog will not leave anyone indifferent. And those who get to know this breed better will love it forever. Bedlington is distinguished by its sociability and cheerful disposition. Like a true terrier, he is infinitely brave and always goes towards his goal. He is gentle, loving and devoted towards his owners.
Cavalier – King – Charles – Spaniel
He is very sweet and attractive. The appearance of this dog makes you smile. This spaniel has a fairly lively temperament, but at the same time has a well-balanced psyche, so it is perfect for city life. These dogs love to socialize and enjoy learning.
Scotch Terrier
This small terrier, originally from Scotland, is energetic and strong.
He has the courage and independence characteristic of a terrier, but at the same time he is quite reserved. Scotch always maintains dignity, treats others evenly, and is not aggressive
This dog is an excellent walking companion.
Australian Shepherd (Aussie)
The breed is extremely active and has a high ability to learn. It is distinguished by endurance, efficiency, and good learning ability. Aussies are not prone to aggression. They have an attractive appearance due to their fairly long, thick coat. The Australian Shepherd is only suitable for active owners. She requires long walks and exercise and training. Only in this case will she become a faithful, comfortable companion.
Basset Hound
This breed is created to live next to humans. Bassets are sociable, loyal, and want to be with their owner all the time. They have a balanced temperament and are not prone to aggression. You should know that this dog does not tolerate separation from its owner, so if all members of your family are at work all day, it is better to make a different choice. But if you have enough time to be with your pet, this is a great breed for an apartment.
Features of training companion dogs
Any animal needs training, and companions are no exception. The furry friend must learn the basic commands: “Ugh,” “Place!”, “Nearby!”, “Walk!”, “Come to me!” Many owners think that if a pet is intended to decorate the sofa, then it should not be exercised. In this case, the dog will grow up to be an unbridled and obstinate creature, coexistence with which will turn into torment for the family. Education and development of rules of behavior is the responsibility of every breeder. Any companion dog can be used as a guard dog. A big dog with just his appearance will prevent hooligans from approaching his owner. The little dog will raise the alarm with a loud bark.
The best breeds of pets that can be trained are: East European Shepherd, Retriever, Poodle, Collie, Pug, Miniature Schnauzer, Labrador.
The list of companion dog breeds is quite long. The main criterion for a person when choosing is the heart, which will begin to beat faster when meeting that only friend. Life on the run, a minimum of informal communication, lack of time to communicate with family, rare forays into nature - everyone is familiar with the living conditions in modern society. Companion dogs are the best dogs for people who want to take care of someone and be needed themselves. It’s a great happiness to come home and know that you are expected and always welcome!
Best Medium Size Dogs for Apartments
The category features medium-sized dogs with medium-sized dogs that are suitable for small apartments.
Labrador Retriever
Rating: 4.9
The hunting dog breed was developed in Canada in the mid-19th century. A strong build with a height of up to 56 cm and a weight of up to 40 kg, long hair, a neat elongated muzzle, large hanging ears - the Labrador cannot be confused with any other dog. The color is monotonous from light fawn and golden to rich black or chocolate - the standard allows for different color options. By the way, the Labrador sheds inactively, but requires combing for prevention.
Retrievers are very good-natured dogs, true companions and loyal friends for adults, children, the elderly and lonely people. Labradors are affectionate and can be trusted to look after children. There is no aggression or malice, despite the hunting purpose of these dogs - the need for long walks and physical activity (games, running) remains.
One of the problems of the breed is a tendency to overeat, so careful monitoring of the diet is necessary.
Advantages
- An exceptionally kind and affectionate dog;
- Compatible with children and even other pets;
- Long hair does not require complex care and sheds little;
Flaws
Daily walks of several hours are necessary.
Poodle
Rating: 4.8
A medium-sized poodle for an apartment is a good option, one of the most common today. Like its younger brother, discussed earlier, it loves to play and be active, but will not impose itself, adapting to the rhythm of the owner’s life. You need to take your poodle for a walk, but on the street strangers he doesn’t like may bark in fear.
Caring for curly or corded hair is difficult - debris and fallen hairs constantly get tangled in the hairs, and tangles form. It is necessary to scratch the dog often and wash it with shampoo periodically. To prevent your dog from gaining weight, careful nutritional control is necessary. The bouquet of diseases in the average poodle is typical for the breed family, as well as in its younger brother.
It is worth noting that the dog is easy to train, very smart and, with proper training, will become an excellent companion for any person over 7 years old.
Advantages
- Aesthetic dog;
- Predisposition to training;
- Lack of aggression;
- Friendly and playful disposition;
Flaws
- Difficult coat care;
- A wide range of breed diseases;
- Tendency to bark;
Collie
Rating: 4.7
Shepherd dog from Scotland of the sheepdog family takes third place in the rating category of medium dogs for apartments. The breed has absolutely no gene for aggression, so the animal is completely safe for household members and others, but it will keep an eye on its “friends” everywhere, and can be trusted to look after a child. Dogs are smart and quick-witted, they need activity and long walks, they will like agility (a dog sport of overcoming obstacles without physical contact with the owner).
Collies have long hair; short-haired individuals with a thick undercoat are rarely found, but the latter are more suitable for keeping in an enclosure. In any case, preventive scratching with timely cutting out of tangles is necessary. The dog does not require any further special care.
Of the collie health problems, experts note only genetic mutations, due to which some individuals cannot tolerate a number of medications. These are identified by mandatory genetic tests to prevent further breeding.
Advantages
- Complete absence of the aggression gene;
- Suitable for communication and entertainment of small children;
- Intelligence and protection of one's pack (family);
- The dog is peaceful and friendly;
Flaws
- Genetic diseases of collie breeds in some individuals;
- Wool requires periodic combing;
- Long walks and physical activity are required;
Service dogs
A good service dog will, of course, be the best companion. All these dogs are well trained, very loyal and calm.
- German Shepherd. The most popular breed all over the world. The Germans have high intelligence and intelligence. They can master absolutely anything. Not suitable for hunting. Perfectly suited as security guards, guides, rescuers and for work at customs and intelligence services.
- Belgian Shepherd. A very loyal, active, strong breed. It becomes attached to its owner and is easy to train. They can be guards, guides and shepherds.
- Rottweiler. Outwardly very formidable, but in fact can be a great friend. Often used as a service dog. The Rottweiler must be trained from puppyhood. Without serious training and command training, the dog can become disobedient and uncontrollable.
- Doberman. They were bred specifically for protection. They are well trained to be security guards, rarely get sick, and with good care they will live quite a long time.
- Boxer. A calm dog that can become an excellent nanny for a child. Smart, trainable, calm dog. Looks more powerful than the Doberman. Loves long and active walks.
