(My first article on Associated Content - hopefully plenty more to come!)
I recently adopted a 6 month old Beagle/Jack Russell Terrier mix. Her name is Mollie Grace. She is playful, energetic, joyful, and has never met a stranger. Luckily, she also loves to nap and cuddle too. She wakes me up each morning by kissing my face until I give in to take her outside. I’m quite convinced she’s the perfect dog.
However, I live in an apartment. You be thinking “how could she possibly have a dog - especially a Jack Russell mix - in an apartment?” Believe me, I’ve endured this question more times than I can count and it often frustrates me. To the surprise of many, there are several ways for apartment pups like Mollie to live a happy, fulfilled life.
I’ve put together a short list of things that have worked for me as a dog owner. From my happy dog apartment to yours, enjoy!
1. Make it a mind game: Being indoors for most of the day, Mollie’s mind needs to be stimulated frequently so she doesn’t get bored and engage in destructive behaviors (example: chewing furniture). Her favorite toy is the Starmark Everlasting Treat Ball, which provides an ongoing mind game for her. The best twenty dollars I’ve ever spent.
2. Playpen: Because Mollie is still a puppy, she is not able to run freely through the apartment. However, she has a large playpen which allows her the freedom to feel more free than a kennel. Leave a water bowl, blanket, bed and toys in her pen. It also helps to leave the television on for some background noise.
3. Doggie Daycare: On days when Mollie cannot be let out regularly (every 4 hours) to use the bathroom and to play, she goes to doggie daycare. If you live in Baton Rouge, I highly recommend Petz Plaza. For a full day, dogs get to run around and play with other dogs, toys, and employees. Doggie Daycare does wonders for the socialization and exercise needs of your dog.
The most important thing is to exercise your creativity and to make your dog your partner. Take your pup along with your wherever possible and give her plenty of socialization and exercise opportunities. Your four-legged friend will surprise you with gratitude, love, appreciation, and wonderful puppy kisses. Those are the best after all, right?
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