Advice And Opinions Please

[chaostheory]

I would also take into account that training to also not be dependent on you is just as important.Your dog will be with you 24/7 & reliant on you for all activities ,some dogs will them happily accept you have left for a few hrs others will have a total melt down .Be careful what you wish for in a "velcro" dog ,this can come with giant pitfalls in a living style such as yours & then require even more effort to retrain & be an enjoyable pet The Cavie i owned certainly didn't sleep all day they are a sporting spaniel & shouldn't be lazy,they are bright & like to use the brain ,they can snore up a storm & shed coat like crazy

Is it doable without a fence yard yes BUT it will be a life time commitment to fill its needs every single day of the year no matter what .The dog will become a big priority due to not having a yard to go into so you will need to decide on toilet training & happiness to sit around until your ready to take it out ,the varying weather conditions through the year that will still means dog must get out & about no matter what .I read your situation & think Cat would be better

I agree with this, it may be doable but its really not ideal.

When I lived in the apartment I had an Italian Greyhound - as I mentioned, I walked him 3 times a day and took him downstairs for a bedtime pee.Problem was he was a weird dog (some Iggies are, they have a lot of quirks and he was no exception). I'd struggle to get him to pee at bedtime - he'd refuse to go in the gardens of the unit so I'd have to walk him up and down the road.EVERY NIGHT and I mean every night, he'd get me up in the night at least once and want to go - we'd go up and down the road, he wouldn't rest until he'd been but getting him to go was very difficult.One night, at 3am, we came across a group of guys coming toward us, I picked him up and ran. The area I lived in wasn't particularly nice and it was after that I decided I couldn't go on. It was then I sold up and moved away from all my friends (I couldn't afford a house in that part of Sydney) and it did change my life - not for the better for many years!I also think that you need to consider times when you may be unwell with flu, stomach virus etc and getting up and going out then becomes a real killer, almost impossible at times. Thank God I didn't have that happen whilst in the unit but it has certainly happened here however the dogs can thankfully put themselves out the dog door.

Hey guys duly noted, anyway like I said I won't be making a decision any time soon. The unit won't be forever, but I suppose I will have to weigh up whether I want to wait five years or so until I'm in a place with a yard out of the city.

[Scottsmum]

I think it's do-able. Especially if you expand your potential list of dogs to retired show/breeders or rescue dogs.

Just don't assume that a smaller dog = a better fit. We adopted a senior fox terrier hoping for a couch potato and got far more than we bargained for - he's very energetic and demanding.

Maybe, if and when you think you're ready you might do some fostering for a rescue group - get a feel for just how much work it will be, and maybe even try living with a few different breeds/sizes.

[ness]

Have heard of people doing it in the US with BCs but they are fully committed to the dogs whenever they are home. I have 2 BCs yes we have a yard but where have they both been since we got back from a 45 min beach this morning - curled up sleeping in my bedroom. One is an oldie now but the other is a young and super active. It would definitely not be an impossible thing to do especially if you do have an area where you can toilet them right outside the door. Would certainly recommend considering something past the puppy stage or consider looking at a puppy going into the warmer months when it might be more practical to have lots of trips outside.

[RuralPug]

Glad you're thinking it through.

The working from home is a major plus.

In the waiting five years time it could work out nicely for you if you offered to do daily walks for some elderly or incapacitated neighbour with a dog, just to get used to part of the commitment. You could consider that a limited try-out.

And yes, I agree that fostering a smaller adult dog (baby puppies have enormous time requirements for toileting) will give you an idea of what will and will not work without tying yourself down for 15 years or so with an unsuitable dog. You could consider fostering a full-on try-out!

[blakkjackal]

Absolutely doable!

I'm always amused at the Aussie attitude that dogs need a backyard... Coming from Europe where apartment living is much more common, and dogs are well adjusted and used to city living.

This!!!

I currently live in an apartment and in Europe and have a dog. An active one too. No one I know with dogs has considered not getting one because they live in apartments. The common mentality here is that dogs need 2-3 proper walks a day WHETHER OR NOT you have a fenced in backyard. And I agree with that. You don't normally do most of the exercise in the backyard or inside (if someone is considering not getting a dog because their apartment is small) anyway.

^That goes mainly for city dog though, I know that I might only take my dog outside the property once a day when I'm visiting family in the country but that property is huge with lots for dogs to do. A regular sized suburban backyard is hardly enough IMO.

My daily routine is get up, take dog out for a quick wee, get back inside, go to work, come home, take dog out for a short walk, sit around for a bit then go do whatever exercise I had in mind for that day (we go biking and drag pulling a lot, I try to make sure he gets off lead time at least 2-3 times a week at a fenced park close by) and then another wee break before bed. Yes it is a commitment but honestly taking the dog out for a piss break takes me less than 10 minutes a few times a day.

[Panzer Attack]

My ex had a cocker spaniel from a puppy in his apartment and it was fine.

I live in apartment with a toy breed and it's fine. I had a Cavalier until very recently (RIP Pen ) and they were both fine, my Cav was a rescue and was frantic the first few months but with training and routine she was totally fine in her last months.

I work full time but my Papillon comes to work with me. He is just as happy to spend the day at home with a puppy pad down if I have stuff on, and I will leave the TV on for him and a couple of chews that will hoard until I get home lol. He is not a typical toy and is quite energetic, so we walk twice a day and I will take him to the toilet 3 times a day. It's really not that big a deal unless it's raining. Generally if it's raining he touches grass and goes immediately because he's so keen to get back inside LOL. We've lived here for a year and he's never lived in an apartment before now, he adjusted very quickly and barely ever alert barks.

Downstairs from me there is an older retired dude with a Border Collie mix. He walks him for over 3 hours a day and they are a perfect match for each other. I think any dog can work in an apartment - the only difference between a house and an apartment is that the dog will poop in and destroy your living area instead of your backyard if it's bored, really. I live in a heavily populated area full of apartments and EVERYONE has a dog around here.

Have you considered a smaller dog with energy like a terrier mix or a purebred?

[chaostheory]

Cheers guys I found this http://www.petsinthecity.net.au which has been pretty helpful for anyone reading who might be in the same boat.

[chaostheory]

My ex had a cocker spaniel from a puppy in his apartment and it was fine.

I live in apartment with a toy breed and it's fine. I had a Cavalier until very recently (RIP Pen ) and they were both fine, my Cav was a rescue and was frantic the first few months but with training and routine she was totally fine in her last months.

I work full time but my Papillon comes to work with me. He is just as happy to spend the day at home with a puppy pad down if I have stuff on, and I will leave the TV on for him and a couple of chews that will hoard until I get home lol. He is not a typical toy and is quite energetic, so we walk twice a day and I will take him to the toilet 3 times a day. It's really not that big a deal unless it's raining. Generally if it's raining he touches grass and goes immediately because he's so keen to get back inside LOL. We've lived here for a year and he's never lived in an apartment before now, he adjusted very quickly and barely ever alert barks.

Downstairs from me there is an older retired dude with a Border Collie mix. He walks him for over 3 hours a day and they are a perfect match for each other. I think any dog can work in an apartment - the only difference between a house and an apartment is that the dog will poop in and destroy your living area instead of your backyard if it's bored, really. I live in a heavily populated area full of apartments and EVERYONE has a dog around here.

Have you considered a smaller dog with energy like a terrier mix or a purebred?

Hi guys! Just wanted to update and say that I have been dog sitting a young pretty energetic cavalier on a weekly basis and so far am really enjoying it. I adore his personality and looks, but after much reading I am a bit heartbroken about the myriad of health problems in cavs. I was just wondering if anyone could suggest a similar breed that I could research? I know I stated earlier that I was looking at a medium sized dog but have since re-assessed that a toy breed might be the more realistic option.

Have been reading a little about the papillon, Panzer Attack how long/far do you walk your papillon each day and how does he go off lead at dog parks/the beach etc? Are they typically a noisy breed?

Have also been reading about some of the smaller brachycephalic toy breeds but am really struggling to get past the health problems. Would love some feedback from anyone with a frenchie etc. I know things tend to look worse in print. I don't want to be in for a life of heartbreak, and do want a dog that will keep up with me exercise wise.

Currently just enjoying reading about and meeting a bunch of dogs. Thanks again!

[HazyWal]

I still think you should consider fostering a greyhound from GAPVIC. I know you are saying you are unsure of large dogs but greys aren't your average dog. As I said earlier they have no smell, minimal grooming and are extremely affectionate. Greyhounds from GAP come muzzle free and if you find they are not the dog for you they can be returned at any time. Ex racing greys are used to set toilet breaks, they live a fairly regimented life in the kennels and they are a very clean dog. Larissa (gapvic) is a member here and would be more than happy to chat with you. Once you meet these gentle dogs you will fall in love...I guarantee that :)

[julesluvscavs]

Yes Cavs are known for some health issues but theres no guarantees with any type of dog. I know many Cavs that have lived fairly healthily to wonderful old ages. I have a 12 year old one and she does have age related issues (that any dog can get) but shes doing very well atm. I knew a 17 year old at our SA Cavalier club, he passed away not long after. 17 is not the norm tho with their life expectancy.

Don't let it dismiss you from owning one if you like their qualities and they are suitable to your environment and lifestyle.

We have 3 of them , well we had another one but we did lose him last year to brain tumour , he was only 9 and it was just sadly one of those things that could have happened to any breed of dog. I've had heeler X's in the past that were given their wings before they got to old ages from cancer

Best to go through a reputable breeder to increase your chances of buying a healthy dog, no matter what breed you decide on.

All the best ;)

Edited November 13, 2014 by Jules❤3Cavs

[chaostheory]

I still think you should consider fostering a greyhound from GAPVIC. I know you are saying you are unsure of large dogs but greys aren't your average dog. As I said earlier they have no smell, minimal grooming and are extremely affectionate. Greyhounds from GAP come muzzle free and if you find they are not the dog for you they can be returned at any time. Ex racing greys are used to set toilet breaks, they live a fairly regimented life in the kennels and they are a very clean dog. Larissa (gapvic) is a member here and would be more than happy to chat with you. Once you meet these gentle dogs you will fall in love...I guarantee that :)

They're definitely not off my list! :) :) They sound ideal and everything I read/hear keeps directing me back to them. I see GAP is having an xmas meet up in Seymour. I might try and get out there and meet a few dogs and ask questions. (No big dog experience how does one even put them in the car?? :p) I think I could get over the size pretty quicky, my main concern is that they can't be taken off leash, and this would mean the dog would only ever be walked with a leash/no free running unless I could find a fenced dog park. Not sure if this would be a huge issue. Also most of my friends and family own smaller dogs, and I would mostly be socialising with them, so compatibility with a smaller dog would be a must.

Yes Cavs are known for some health issues but theres no guarantees with any type of dog. I know many Cavs that have lived fairly healthily to wonderful old ages. I have a 12 year old one and she does have age related issues (that any dog can get) but shes doing very well atm. I knew a 17 year old at our SA Cavalier club, he passed away not long after. 17 is not the norm tho with their life expectancy.

Don't let it dismiss you from owning one if you like their qualities and they are suitable to your environment and lifestyle.

We have 3 of them , well we had another one but we did lose him last year to brain tumour , he was only 9 and it was just sadly one of those things that could have happened to any breed of dog. I've had heeler X's in the past that were given their wings before they got to old ages from cancer

Best to go through a reputable breeder to increase your chances of buying a healthy dog, no matter what breed you decide on.

All the best ;)

Cheers! It's tricky because I think mainly negative experiences get written about, and it's all you tend to see. The cav I am dog sitting is so hilarious, never seen a dog so friendly to complete strangers..

[julesluvscavs]

The majority of Cavs are very friendly with everyone especially if they have been well socialised in a positive way ;)

[Rebanne]

They're definitely not off my list! :) :) They sound ideal and everything I read/hear keeps directing me back to them. I see GAP is having an xmas meet up in Seymour. I might try and get out there and meet a few dogs and ask questions. (No big dog experience how does one even put them in the car?? :p) I think I could get over the size pretty quicky, my main concern is that they can't be taken off leash, and this would mean the dog would only ever be walked with a leash/no free running unless I could find a fenced dog park. Not sure if this would be a huge issue. Also most of my friends and family own smaller dogs, and I would mostly be socialising with them, so compatibility with a smaller dog would be a must.

Legally, in Victoria they are not allowed off lead even in a dog park, but there are a couple of groups that have fun days at local slipping tracks around Melbourne.

[HazyWal]

They just jump in the car :D

I have two that just travelled 1000k's in the back of a Hyundai Getz from Sydney to Melbourne as I just moved down here without a problem. You'll be surprised at how small they can curl up on the couch :laugh: I called into the GAP kennels at Seymour on my way through and they have a great set up there. It will be worth your while to make the trip believe me.

ETA minimum requirement for GAP greys is that they must be small dog friendly.

Edited November 13, 2014 by HazyWal

[Alibi]

I can recommend the griffon bruxellois, I have a 2 yr old smooth coat and my mum owns a 1 yr old smooth. They are very happy, active little dogs and don't seem to suffer from breathing problems like other bracy breeds. They love other animals and adore everyone. They do well as apartment dogs as long as they get a good walk and playtime, mine has an indoor toilet as we are in a townhouse with a unusable backyard. They are extremely smart and pick up things very quickly.

I can recommend a Melbourne breeder to speak too, pm me if you want the number.

[chaostheory]

Just checking in.

The front part of my yard has now been gated off :thumbsup: :thumbsup: and I hope to chat to and meet a few griffon dogs and people in the new year. :)

[Tibbie_tabbie]

Have you looked at Tibetan Spaniels? They are watchdogs, but don't generally just bark for the sake of it (of course there will be exceptions).

They are 'pack' dogs tho, and tend to need company, whether another animal or person :)

[chaostheory]

Have you looked at Tibetan Spaniels? They are watchdogs, but don't generally just bark for the sake of it (of course there will be exceptions).

They are 'pack' dogs tho, and tend to need company, whether another animal or person :)

Whilst I think they're gorgeous, I don't think I'm cut out for them temperament wise being a relative newbie.. from what I've read aloof and willful keep popping. Eep, :laugh:

EFS

Edited December 2, 2014 by chaostheory

[Tibbie_tabbie]

Haha! That's true, although aloof with strangers not with 'their' people :)

Wilful however.....yup! Stubborn? Yup! But in a logical, sensible way - if that makes any sense?!

For example, my German Shepherd would do something because I told him to.....tibbies need a good enough reason, each time! I do obedience, luring and agility with my boy but I have to make it awesome fun for him each second or he will put on the breaks and decide that's enough! I like that though, keeps me on my toes :)

[hankdog]

Ha, so Jakes a Tibbie disguise!

I have a large garden but because of his issues Jake cant be out unsupervised. He does very well on two walks a day, he is on a longline if I'm gardening across the creek but not if Im close to the house, I'm guessing this will be your dogs setup? If you have a portable dog that can go out with you then you'll be fine. I think temperament is going to be important rather than breed. My last dog was an large wolfie cross, he couldn't have given a hoot about being outside, he loved coming everywhere with us and was very bombproof so I never had to worry about him.

A grownup dog might be easier all round, toilet training done and temperament known.