People who live in apartments often think a lot before getting a dog because not every dog is perfect for apartments.
However, the Shih Tzu is one of the few dog breeds that perfectly fits in the environment and size of the apartment.
These small and affectionate dogs are perfect for indoor living and because they are small in size, they also adapt easily to smaller spaces.
They are not very highly energetic or like large breeds that need tons of space; instead, Shih Tzus love cozy homes with attentive owners and thrive in such places.
People who are looking for dogs for their apartments can go for Shih Tzus for various reasons.
Small Size, Big Advantage
The most obvious reason behind Shih Tzus doing great in apartments is their small size. They weigh around 9 to 16 pounds and stand only 9 to 10.5 inches tall so they don’t need a lot of space to move around.
Their little body size makes them the perfect fit for small spaces and they can get their daily exercise with a short walk and some playtime indoors.
Meanwhile, larger dogs can knock off things and won’t be comfortable and even feel cramped in small spaces but Shih Tzus are not only comfortable but also happy curling up on a couch or playing in a hallway.
Moderate Exercise Needs
Shih Tzus have low energy in general so they don’t need rigorous exercise or lots of running or chasing for hours.
They are pretty content and happy with their short walks, a bit of playing and mostly lounging in the corner of the room or at some cozy place.
So, people who don’t have access to backyards or dog parks and cannot take their dogs out every day would love a Shih Tzu because they perfectly fit into their needs and routine.
A little walk every day and some playtime indoors would do the work for Shih Tzus. They will be stimulated both physically and mentally with gentle games of tug or fetch and stay happy without many demands.
Quiet and Polite Nature
Apartment life means you have to be mindful of your neighbors before doing anything and because Shih Tzus are generally calm and not very vocal, they don’t disturb the neighbors.
They can, of course, bark like other dogs but they don’t bark constantly or whine. Shih Tzus might also pick up on bad habits like any other dog, like barking too much if left alone for too long.
But paying them proper attention and teaching them well on how to behave and act, they would become calmer and won’t bother the neighbors.
Good With People and Pets
Living in an apartment means you can easily interact and socialize with lots of people, pets and kids, and when you are with your Shih Tzu while interacting.
They won’t scare anyone and will be the obedient dog. Shih Tzus are friendly and gentle so they get along well with every other dog and people.
This is why apartment life becomes much easier and happier with them.
Adaptable and Easygoing
Shih Tzus only want their human parents alongside and they will be the happiest.
So whether you are working or retired or a couple, they would fit perfectly in your apartment and in your schedule without any problem.
They’re also fine staying indoors for a while, as long as they get some attention and a bit of activity each day.
Low Shedding, Low Mess
Shih Tzus have beautiful coats and the best part is their coats do not shed much, which helps keep your apartment cleaner.
Their hair is somewhat like human hair so there is less loose fur and fewer allergens around your home.
Even though their coat needs low maintenance, they have to be regularly brushed to avoid tangles, especially if it’s long hair.
Conclusion
Living in apartments doesn’t mean you cannot have a dog; you just need the right dog according to your lifestyle and Shih Tzus are one of the few dogs that adjust well in every environment as long as they have love and attention.
They are small in size, calm in nature, and need moderate exercise and mostly have friendly temperaments, so they make great dog breeds to live with in small living spaces.
