Single life has its good days and bad days. Otherwise, people really seem to enjoy having their own space to spend time with themselves and focus on their self-care without any external interruption. The only potential downside is that seldom-stopping-by-loneliness that makes you look at your living situation with pity.
There is no reason to include another person in your home who would otherwise have been your sacred spot. You don’t need more humans; chances are, you just need a dog.
According to a recent Survey by the American Veterinary Medical Association in 2013, there could be seen an increase in the number of single men living alone with ownership of pets from 34.3 percent to 43.8 percent. That is a 27.7 percent increment. Why is that?
These pets are called man’s best friend for a reason. While just about any breed will provide you with company, some are exceptionally good for the role. Whether you’re a first-time owner or have experience giving proper training to other breeds, here are 7 good guard dogs ideal for single men in apartments.
Guard Dog Breeds For Single Men In Apartments
1. German Shepherd
German Shepherds are renowned for their exceptional guarding instincts, loyalty, and intelligence, making them one of the best guard dogs, always alert and ready to protect their family. This is a good match if you can commit to an hour or two at least daily for vigorous training and exercise.
Without a proper yard to leave them in or to play fetch with them, their physical upkeep is a challenge, as they require consistent training and mental stimulation. If they’re neglected in this manner, they may develop some behavioural problems.
PDSA states that they have high energy levels but are also really easy to train. They respond really well to positive reinforcement and have intensely strong protective instincts. Once you get the hang of them, they’re a blessing for any dog owner.
Their impeccable work ethic is why they’re taken on as police dogs as well. They’ll not just keep you busy, but also active and on your feet, making sure you don’t gain those extra pounds that we tend to get lazy with living alone.
They can adapt to any space you’re living in, even apartments, despite being large dogs. Provided you put in the time and effort to get them acquainted. The right dog needs the right owner; there’s only so much he can learn on his own.
2. Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman has gained popularity for being a great guard dog and also due to its size. These are large dog breeds that make for an amazing, devoted family pet, as per Royal Canin, but some wonder if they’re the right choice for apartment life. Let’s set the record straight.
The Doberman Pinscher, one user wonderfully put it, can live in a cardboard box as long as their physical and mental stimulation needs are met. They need regular exercise.
If you’re thinking of making a trip to a dog park, keep an eye on them as they’re very picky about their playmates. They have a protective nature, making excellent guard dogs, and can adapt to apartment living as well.
A Doberman will make a great best friend and look out for your well-being, barking to alert you of anything unusual. Your house will be as sacred to them as to you. This is also a popular dog breed because of how loyal it is.
3. Boxer
A Boxer would make a wonderful companion as they are loyal, affectionate, and have an excellent work ethic, according to AKC. They are bright, alert, and sometimes silly, all traits you need as a single living in an apartment.
However, apartment dwellers need to make sure they get their daily exercise and grooming needs met so they can be on their best behavior.
While Boxers are more known for their playful and affectionate nature, they also make excellent guard dogs. Their alertness, courage, and loyalty make them natural protectors. Boxers are very protective of their families and homes, barking at unfamiliar people and situations.
They are courageous and have been a very popular breed in America for a long time. They can provide companionship during some quiet, alone time.
As long as early training and socialization have been introduced to them, they do relatively well with new friends, other animals, and kids as well. Small spaces aren’t an issue as long as their overall health isn’t compromised.
4. Rhodesian Ridgeback
The AKC states that the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a strong-willed dog with an independent nature that can sometimes be domineering, too. So they need to be guided with a firm but fair hand.
They form strong bonds with their families and owners and can accommodate living in an apartment with single owners as long as they get their daily hour of exercise and some mental exercises to get their minds working.
They are one of the best dog breeds as reliable guardians. Also, they have minimal shedding and almost zero body odor. The Ridgeback has a gentle temperament and is not known to bark excessively without a reason, the hallmark of apartment dogs.
5. Chihuahua
These small dog breeds have an unwavering loyalty and very vibrant personalities. This makes them ideal for people living alone; they serve as quite the entertainment. They were originally bred for companionship in Mexico, so it is quite literally the purpose of their life.
Although small, Chihuahuas are surprisingly courageous and protective of their owners. Their loyalty and strong territorial instincts often make them bark at strangers or unfamiliar sounds, making them effective little watchdogs despite their size.
Due to their small size, they don’t have extensive exercise needs as compared to the other dogs on this list.
They have a short coat, which means it is a low-maintenance dog as well. A little playtime indoors or a short walk is enough for them. They can be easy to train due to their intelligence.
6. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies are not exceptionally brilliant at following commands, but understand new commands about 70% of the time, which is still a great figure. Not too taxing for an apartment life, too.
Yorkies may be small, but they are incredibly brave and have a strong protective instinct. Their fierce loyalty to their owners means they will alert you to any perceived threat, making them excellent guard dogs for their size.
While they might not have the physical strength of larger dogs, they make up for it with their bold personality.
They are scared of being left alone for extended periods of time; that is to say, they thrive on companionship and want nothing more than to just be in the presence of their human.
Being from a toy dog breed, they have moderate exercise needs. A Yorkie is quite affectionate and has a loving temperament once they get attached. Just make sure you have the time and attention to give them, as they are really demanding in that department.
7. Mastiff
Right off the bat, these dogs are massive. You’re not going to find a bigger dog than the Mastiff, so make sure you have ample space in your apartment to accommodate their size before we move forward.
It is also a muscular dog that needs a diet that won’t jeopardize their build and health. If all these things check out for what you can take on, a Mastiff is a great companion.
Mastiffs are imposing dogs with a naturally protective temperament. Their massive size alone is often enough to deter intruders.
With proper training, they are excellent guard dogs, known for their calm demeanor and deep loyalty. They are extremely protective of their families and will not hesitate to act when they sense danger.
As compared to other large dog breeds, they don’t require such excessive exercise, which is what makes them good apartment dogs despite their massive size.
With proper training and guidance, they will be great with guests, kids, and other animals, too. The only thing that poses a potential threat in such a small space, however, is their size, as they’re huge and healthy dogs.
Conclusion
Other breeds that can make for good apartment dogs include the Boston Terrier, Chinese Shar Pei, Golden Retrievers, French bulldogs, Bullmastiff, etc.
With a dog, no matter where you live, the main thing to keep in mind is to keep up with their dietary and exercise needs, providing them with a happy house and regular grooming. A balance of exercise and couch time is crucial for any breed. Police dogs, guard dogs, protective dogs, or mere cuddle buddies. There needs to be a balance in every pet’s life.
