Are you a cat lover, but live in an apartment? Are you considering getting a Schapendoes as your furry companion? While these adorable dogs are known for their herding abilities and active nature, many wonder if they can adapt to living in smaller spaces like apartments. In this blog post, we will explore the characteristics of Schapendoess and discuss whether or not they can thrive in an apartment setting.
The Nature of Schapendoes
Schapendoess are intelligent and energetic dogs that have been originally bred for herding sheep. They possess a strong work ethic, incredible agility, and are always ready for physical activities. These qualities make them excellent companions for those who lead an active lifestyle.
Size Matters
When it comes to living in apartments, the size of the dog matters. Fortunately, Schapendoess belong to medium-sized breeds which means they aren’t overly big or small. This makes them more suitable for apartment living compared to larger breeds that may struggle with limited space.
Daily Exercise Requirements
Schapendoess have high exercise requirements due to their working dog background. Regular physical activity is crucial to keep them mentally stimulated and prevent boredom-related behavioral issues such as excessive barking or destructive behaviors.
If you live in an apartment without access to a backyard or nearby open spaces, meeting your Schapendoes’ exercise needs may require extra effort on your part. Daily walks (ideally multiple times) combined with interactive play sessions should be incorporated into their routine.
Mental Stimulation
In addition to physical exercise, mental stimulation plays a vital role in keeping your furry friend happy and well-behaved. Schapendoess are highly intelligent dogs that thrive on mental challenges.
Living in an apartment shouldn’t limit your ability to provide mental stimulation for your Schapendoes. Puzzle toys, interactive games, and obedience training can all contribute to keeping their minds sharp and engaged.
Training and Socialization
Schapendoess are known for their trainability and eagerness to please. Consistent training sessions from a young age will help them learn proper behavior and basic commands.
Proper socialization is also essential for a well-rounded Schapendoes. Living in an apartment means encountering various sounds, people, and other pets during walks or visits to parks. Exposing your dog to different environments can result in a well-socialized friend who is comfortable with various situations.
Noise Considerations
Schapendoess have a tendency to bark when they sense something unfamiliar or perceive potential danger. In an apartment setting where neighbors may be close by, excessive barking can become problematic.
To minimize noise issues, it’s important to train your Schapendoes early on regarding acceptable barking behaviors. Providing them with enough physical exercise and mental stimulation will also reduce the likelihood of excessive barking due to boredom or restlessness.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, while living in an apartment presents some challenges for Schapendoess’ high energy levels and exercise needs, it is possible for them to be happy companions in smaller spaces given the right care and attention from their owners. With regular daily exercise routines, mental stimulation activities, proper training, socialization efforts, and consideration of noise concerns – these intelligent herding dogs can adjust quite well even without access to large open areas typically associated with their working nature.
If you’re willing to provide the time, effort, and commitment required to meet their needs in an apartment setting, a Schapendoes can be a wonderful addition to your life – bringing joy, companionship, and endless entertainment.
