If you live in an apartment and are thinking about getting an American Bully dog but aren’t sure if they can live in an apartment, don’t worry. You’re in the right place.
American Bullies can live in an apartment and will do just fine as long as you provide them with the required exercise and take proper care of them.
However, there’s a big problem. Some landlords and apartment owners don’t allow American Bullies because they have a bad reputation. People often think they’re aggressive and dangerous, but that’s not true.
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Breed Restrictions: What is this?
Breed Restrictions are simply a policy that some housing facilities adopt to limit the types of dogs residents can keep, often based on the breed’s perceived temperament or size.
For instance, an American Bully might be restricted due to their muscular build and the misconceptions about their behaviour. These restrictions are enforced to supposedly ensure safety and peace within the community.
However, they often ignore the fact that a dog’s behavior largely depends on its upbringing and training.
It’s crucial you’re aware of these breed restrictions before moving into an apartment. Not doing so could lead to heartbreaking situations, such as having to rehome your beloved pet.
Dealing With Breed Restrictions and Landlords
Fortunately, landlords are becoming more understanding and open to allowing American Bullies in apartments despite breed restrictions.
While breed restrictions are common in apartment complexes to protect residents from potentially dangerous breeds, it’s still possible to find accommodations that accept American Bullies.
It’s important to be transparent with landlords about your dog’s breed and temperament. Some landlords may require an extra fee or meeting to assess your dog’s attitude or temperament.
Some might even ask for a Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certificate which is a certificate given by professional trainers after completing a CGC course. This certificate shows that your dog is well-behaved and can live in the residence.
Many landlords believe that American bullies are the same as pit bulls and may not allow your pet to live in that case you can even provide a vet certificate confirming your American bully is not a pit bull which can help your case.
However, it’s crucial to understand that even after doing all this, they still might be nervous and may reject you as they simply don’t want to take the risk of getting into any type of potential lawsuit.
Before signing a lease, it’s essential to thoroughly discuss breed restrictions with your potential landlord to ensure a peaceful and comfortable living situation for both you and your American Bully.
Breeds That Are Not Allowed in Most Apartments
Despite being a dog lover, it’s essential to be aware of the breeds that aren’t typically allowed in apartments due to rules set by landlords or property management companies.
Some of the breeds commonly restricted include
- Pitbull terriers
- Rottweilers
- Cane Corso
- Doberman Pinschers
- Mastiffs
- Great Dane
- Huskies
- Dogo Argentino
- Akita
- Wolfdogs
These breeds are often seen as potentially dangerous or disruptive due to their size, strength, or perceived temperament.
However, it’s important to remember that breed restrictions aren’t universal – they vary greatly from one rental property to another. Therefore, always check the specific pet policy of any apartment you’re considering before committing.
Remember, responsible pet ownership is the best way to challenge these stereotypes and ensure a positive living environment for you and your dog.
8 Tips To Keep Your American Bully Happy in an Apartment
After you get the permit to live in an apartment. It’s your responsibility to keep your bully happy and a good fit for your apartment.
Here are the following tips you can follow-
Daily Exercise
Living in an apartment is not the same as living in a house with a yard. In apartments, dogs don’t have much space to roam around which can bore them and can eventually lead to chewing and barking.
To avoid this it is important to incorporate at least one hour of exercise each day. This can be split into smaller sessions throughout the day to better fit your schedule.
Personally, I divide the session into two 30-minute sessions one in the morning and another one in the evening.
You can take them for a brisk walk, play fetch in a nearby park, or tug of war, etc.
Socialization
Socialization is important so that your dogs can get along with everyone, especially when you live in an apartment with a diverse community.
You should start socializing with your dog as early as possible. Expose them to various environments, people, and situations.
Regular visits to dog parks can provide opportunities for your Bully to engage with other dogs, while walks around your local neighborhood can help them adapt to different environments. Additionally, inviting friends over to your apartment can aid in human socialization.
By doing this, your dog will become familiar with all types of situations and won’t lose its composure when exposed to such circumstances.
Keep Them Entertained
Keeping your American Bully entertained and mentally stimulated is crucial for their happiness in an apartment setting.
Invest in a variety of stimulating toys that they can play with. Interactive ones are great, as they challenge their mind.
You could also consider puzzle toys filled with treats, which can keep them occupied for hours.
Crate Training
Crate training is very beneficial, especially for the owners who need to go outside a lot often. so you can keep them in the crate where they feel secure and comfortable when you are not around them.
Here are five tips to help get you started.
- Start early: Younger dogs adapt more readily to new situations.
- Make it comfortable: Filling the crate with blankets or toys will make it more inviting.
- Use positive reinforcement: Reward your dog for using its crate, reinforcing the idea that it’s a safe, happy place.
- Never use it for punishment: This can make your American Bully associate the crate with negative experiences.
- Gradually increase crate time: Start with short periods and gradually extend them. This helps your dog adjust without feeling overwhelmed.
Implement these tips and you’ll soon have a content, apartment-friendly American Bully.
Obedience training
In addition to crate training, obedience training is a crucial part of ensuring that your American Bully is well-behaved and disciplined. It also helps to strengthen the bond with your pet as well.
American bully is known for their intelligence and eagerness to please, making them excellent candidates for obedience training.
Start with basic commands like ‘sit,’ ‘stay,’ and ‘come.’ Consistency is key.
Make sure to reward your Bully’s good behavior with treats or praise to reinforce the positive actions. If necessary, consider hiring a professional trainer for more advanced training.
Train Them To Walk On a leash
Leash training is a must for any dog breed, and it’s especially important for an American Bully living in an apartment.
You’ll want to start training your Bully as a pup, but it’s never too late. Start indoors, letting them get used to the feel of the leash. Gradually introduce outdoor walks, starting with short outings and slowly increasing the duration.
Patience is key, as is consistency. Reward your Bully for good behavior, reinforcing the positive aspects of leash-walking.
Remember, your American Bully has a strong physique, so a sturdy, comfortable leash is crucial. Also, consider using a harness for better control.
Leash training keeps your Bully safe and makes walks enjoyable, for both of you. It’s an essential part of apartment living.
Potty Training
Potty training matters a lot when you live in an apartment. It helps keep your living space clean and odor-free for both you and your dog. Since apartments don’t have backyards, it’s crucial to teach your dog where to go to the bathroom.
Potty training is actually easier than you might think. Read this article How to Potty Train an American Bully Puppy to get a detailed step-by-step guide to effectively potty train your puppy.
Start by establishing a routine, taking your Bully out first thing in the morning, after meals, and before bedtime. Always use the same door and spot for elimination to build consistency.
Praise and reward your Bully for doing business outside, creating a positive association. If accidents occur, don’t scold. Instead, clean up thoroughly to prevent marking behaviour.
Be a Responsible Neighbour
As a responsible owner, you should understand that living in an apartment with your American Bully requires not only keen attention to your dog’s needs but also a consideration for your neighbors.
This breed can be energetic and may make noise during playtime. It’s necessary to establish quiet hours, especially in the early mornings and late evenings when others might be resting.
Be proactive about cleaning up after your dog in communal areas. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are also crucial to keep your Bully content and less likely to display destructive behavior.
Lastly, fostering positive interactions between your Bully and neighbors can also help. This could involve simple gestures like allowing your dog to greet them politely, which may also dispel any misconceptions about the breed.
FAQ
What Is the Average Lifespan of an American Bully?
American Bully typically live between 8 to 15 years. This can vary based on their health, diet, and exercise regimen. So, they’ve got a pretty decent lifespan.
How Often Should an American Bully Be Exercised?
You should exercise your American Bully at least once a day. These dogs are energetic and need regular physical activity to stay healthy. Long walks, playtime, or agility training can meet this requirement.
Can American Bullies Adapt to Living in Small Spaces?
Yes, you can keep an American Bully in a small space. They’re adaptable dogs, but you’ll need to ensure they get plenty of exercise to keep them healthy and happy. It’s all about balance.
Are American Bullies Considered a Noisy Breed?
No, American Bullies aren’t typically considered a noisy breed. They’re quite calm and collected. However, like any dog, they can become noisy if they’re bored, anxious, or not getting enough exercise.
Final Thoughts
American Bullies can adapt fairly easily to the apartment setting, as long as you take proper care of them.
It is important to understand that American Bullies are often misunderstood as a dangerous breed, and many landlords do not allow this breed. So, it’s crucial to confirm your apartment’s pet policies to avoid any issues.
Remember, keeping them happy requires regular exercise, mental stimulation, and plenty of love. No matter where you live, providing these essential elements can ensure your American Bully leads a healthy, happy, and well-adjusted life.
Reference:
Breed Restrictions: What Should You Know When Renting with Pets?
AKC: Puppy Socialization: Why, When, and How to Do It Right
Dogbreedinfo: American Bully Dog Breed Information and Pictures