You may think that because of their large size, a Rottweiler would struggle to live comfortably in a smaller space, such as that of an apartment.
And yet, it may surprise you to learn that Rottweilers are considered one of the best choices as apartment dogs. This is because they are very docile animals, who don’t bark often. The only real concern should be that they still get all the exercise they need.
Why Don’t People Like Dogs in Apartments?
Some Rottweiler breeders and rescue organizations frown upon prospective owners getting Rottweilers or other medium-to-large breeds when they hear that they’re going to be living in an apartment.
Particularly if the apartment is on a high floor, the concern is that the dog will suffer from a lack of exercise and will instead be cooped up all day with no outlet for its energy.
However, this would be the case for any sized animal. Whether you’re looking for a Jack Russell Terrier or a Rottweiler, the main concern remains the same: your dog must have plenty of exercises, especially outside, and that’s nothing to do with the size of your house.
Don’t Be Put Off by a Rottweiler’s Size!
It can make sense for us to equate the size of the dog with the size of the space that it lives in. Small dogs must do well in small places, we assume, and large dogs need more space.
However, a dog is the kind of animal who adapts very well to any space that it lives in, within reason, of course. And if your living space is of a comfortable size for you, it should be fine for your Rottweiler, too.
Rottweilers are not like Jack Russell Terriers. They do not have the crazy bursts of energy and need for speed all day long, as though they’re powered by batteries.
Instead, a Rottweiler loves to live a docile and peaceful life overall, save for the times they’re outside, getting exercise.
Rottweilers Just Love to be Close to You
One of the main attributes of a Rottweiler is its love for, and loyalty to, its owner. In some cases, that means having your Rottweiler literally stuck to you whenever you’re together!
Even getting up to fetch an item from the kitchen will result in your Rottweiler rising with you and trotting by your side, its muzzle against your hip. It’s part of their natural guarding instinct. After all, who knows what might befall you in the perils of the next room?!
It can be irritating at times to forever have this large black and brown shadow constantly at your side, but this is one of the ways that a Rottweiler is happy in an apartment. If you’re there, your beloved Rottie needs little else.
All Dogs Need Exercise, Wherever They Live
It’s wrong to assume that dogs in apartments are unhappy, whereas dogs who live in houses with yards must have all the fun.
Even owners with gardens may refuse to open the door and let their dogs run around. Or they may allow their dog outside only to use the bathroom and then call them in once again. Neither scenario is fair on the dog.
For those who live in apartments, you will find that these owners are the ones who make a special effort to ensure their dog gets the exercise they need because they must make a conscious effort to take their dogs outside for their walks.
A Rottweiler needs at least one hour of exercise per day. This is the case whether they live in an apartment or a mansion. Without that exercise requirement being met, the size of the dog’s living space is irrelevant.
Rottweilers have large amounts of energy but when properly channeled it leads to a happy, contented, and well-behaved dog who will be more than happy living in their apartment home.
Combining long walks, playtime at the dog park, and play and training inside the apartment, your Rottweiler will not only get the physical exercise they need but the mental stimulation, too.
Early Training Will Ease Many Problems
Apartment living isn’t simply about physical exercise, although this will obviously be your main concern. It is also about consideration for both your Rottweiler and your neighbors.
Rottweilers are very intelligent animals who respond well to training, so get in there early with the training after bringing your puppy home, to give you both the best possible chance at a quiet, uneventful apartment existence.
When there are other people living above, underneath, or to the side of you, they bring with them their own noises and sounds. Train your Rottweiler not to respond to regular ambient ‘apartment’ noise, so that your dog won’t feel anxious.
Rottweilers are natural protectors of their living space, but once they get used to the noise of others around them, they’ll learn that it doesn’t represent a threat to their space or their owner.
In fact, you will probably feel safer and more at ease knowing your loyal Rottweiler is there, ready to guard you and your home from unexpected threats. What’s important is that they know the difference between noises that should concern them and those that shouldn’t.
Where possible, introduce your neighbors to your Rottweiler. Once your dog meets them and picks up their scent, his strong nose will soon learn that the neighbors are part of the building and mean no harm.
It will help you greatly to have a schedule and stick to it. Dogs thrive on routine, so take your Rottweiler out at the same time every day, ideally twice a day or more, giving them a chance to have quality exercise time. They will get used to knowing when it’s time for exercise, and when it’s time to return home.
Rottweilers Aren’t Noisy Dogs
Unlike some ‘yappier’ breeds (Jack Russells once again getting a bad rap), Rottweilers are not known for their barking. They’re generally very quiet, easy-going dogs. However, you may find that when you leave the apartment, they begin to bark.
This will be more to do with separation anxiety, distress concerned with your absence. If this is combined with boredom, then you’ll have a problem in an apartment.
Be In Tune with Your Rottweiler’s Needs
What’s most important is that your Rottweiler is getting everything they need, no matter where they live.
Regular exercise, both physical and mental, along with a good diet and proper training, will result in a very happy Rottie.
Be in tune with the noises your Rottweiler makes. If they whine, it could mean they need to go out to the bathroom. Give your Rottweiler the time needed to exit the building, and don’t wait until they’re desperate, especially if you know you’ll have to wait for an elevator.
Deep rumbles in their throat will tell you that they’re content, as this is a Rottweiler’s way of purring, and letting you know everything is OK. Above all, watch for signs that they may be depressed, and address any issues.
It’s Not the Location, but the Company
All your Rottweiler wants is to be by your side, and they care very little about the kind of house they inhabit.
For as long as your building manager or landlord approves of animals, then living in an apartment should never be a reason not to have a Rottweiler. By understanding what it is your beloved dog needs, you’ll be able to give them a fantastic quality of life, wherever you live.
