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A dog in an apartment building
6 tips for a good relationship with your neighbors
A dog in an apartment building, is that even possible? Absolutely, and more and more residents are doing it. However, living with a dog on a few dozen square meters alongside dozens of other families does require some extra attention. With these 6 tips, you can ensure that your dog feels at home in the apartment building and that your neighbors continue to feel the same way.
Here are the tips you certainly won't want to skip.
Know the internal rules for pets
Every apartment building has its own agreements regarding pets: where your dog is allowed to go, whether it must be on a leash in the common areas, and whether a maximum number of pets per apartment applies. Request the internal rules from your syndic before bringing a dog into your home. This way, you know your rights and obligations and avoid discussions with the association of co-owners afterwards.
Keep the common areas clean
The entrance hall, elevator, and stairwell belong to all residents together. Clean up muddy paws, hair, and accidents immediately. Keeping a washcloth or an old towel by the front door is a simple habit that saves a lot of annoyance and benefits your relationship with the neighbors.
Limit barking noise in the apartment
Sound carries easily in an apartment building. A dog that barks for hours when you are not at home is quickly noticed by neighbors and leads to complaints. Train your dog to be left alone, provide sufficient exercise before you leave, and consider a pet sitter or dog walking service if you are away for long days.
Use the leash in common areas
Not every resident is fond of dogs, and some are even afraid of them. Keep your dog on a leash in the elevator, entrance hall, and stairwell, no matter how well-behaved it is. This builds trust with your neighbors and prevents unpleasant situations in the apartment building.
Choose the right place to walk your dog
Do not walk your dog on the common terrace, in the garden, or in the bicycle storage area. Go outside to a park or a designated dog zone. Always clean up waste, even outside the building, as this remains one of the biggest sources of annoyance between neighbors.
Communicate with your neighbors about your dog
A brief word to your neighbors when you bring a dog home works wonders. This way, they know who is barking when they arrive home, and you can make agreements together, for example, about using the elevator with a large dog. Good communication prevents most conflicts in an apartment building before they arise.
Can I just keep a dog in an apartment building?
That depends on the internal rules of your Owners Association. Some buildings impose restrictions regarding number, breed, or size. Request the rules from your syndic before bringing a dog into your home.
What if my neighbors complain about barking?
Talk directly to your neighbors first and look for a solution together, such as training or an adjusted daily routine. If it remains a problem, the syndic can mediate between the parties involved.
Does my dog always have to be on a leash in the common areas?
In most apartment buildings, yes, and this is usually explicitly stated in the internal rules. It protects both your dog and your neighbors.
The most important thing
With common sense and respect for your neighbors, a dog remains a pleasant housemate, even in an apartment building.
Four little paws, one happy heart, and an apartment full of life.
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