Basenji: silent independence

This breed from Central Africa is known for not barking (they make chirping sounds). Basenjis are incredibly clean (they groom themselves like cats), which is a plus for apartments. They are smart but stubborn. They handle solitude calmly if provided with toys-puzzles. However, Basenjis are destructors if they get bored: they may chew on wallpaper. Therefore, preparing the apartment and tiring them out before leaving is important.

Chow Chow: lazy lions with a lion's character

Chow Chows are cat-dogs. They love to sleep for 12-14 hours a day, do not require active play. Ideal for those who work from 9 to 18. Chows are indifferent to what is happening around them if their territory is safe. But their fur requires care, and their character requires patience. They will not suffer from loneliness, but rather enjoy it. The problem: Chow Chows do not like loud noises and may react aggressively to noisy neighbors, but this is not related to loneliness.

Shih Tzu: living room chrysanthemums

Small, quiet, not requiring much space. Shih Tzus were bred as indoor dogs for Chinese emperors. They handle solitude well if given access to a litter box (although it's better to walk them). They are not prone to destruction, but may whine if not trained. Important: Shih Tzus shed, but do not bark much. Suitable for apartments with small children who are also in school.

Greyhound (Italian Greyhound): quiet and gentle

Small, quiet, short-haired. Greyhounds can sleep for up to 16 hours a day. They do not require long walks (although they love to run). They handle solitude relatively well, but may suffer from separation if not trained. They are easy to train. The problem: they are afraid of the cold, so they need clothes or blankets at home. They are great for apartments with central heating.

French Bulldog: a homebody with a sense of humor

French Bulldogs love their owners, but are not prone to panic attacks when left alone if trained from a young age. They do not bark much, can sleep all day. They have no undercoat, so shedding is moderate. Problems: they fart (flatulence), snore, and may have breathing problems in the heat. But they are a great option for a city apartment. The main thing is not to get two, otherwise they will start a battle for the sofa.

Akita Inu: a reserved samurai

A large breed, but very calm. Akita Inus do not bark without cause, may lie in one place for hours observing what is happening. They are independent dogs that do not require constant contact with humans. But they need long walks (one hour in the morning and evening) to release energy. Otherwise, they are ideal apartment dogs. Drawbacks: their shedding is massive (twice a year in clumps).

Border Collie? Not at all

Many think that Border Collies are smart and can stay alone. This is a dangerous misconception. Border Collies are working dogs bred for sheep herding. Without work and a human, they will destroy the apartment in an hour, bark, and show destructive behavior. Therefore, they are not on our list. The same applies to Huskies, Malamutes, most terriers, and shepherds.

How to train any dog to handle solitude

Even the most independent breed can become a neurotic if not properly prepared. Start with 5 minutes, gradually increasing the time. Leave toys-congs with treats. Do not have boisterous farewells and greetings. Create a safe place (a cage or a bed in a quiet corner). Never punish for a mess that happened while you were away (the dog will not associate the punishment with the past action).

When choosing a dog for a city apartment, consider not only breed characteristics but also the individual character. Even among phlegmatic Chow Chows, there are anxious individuals. The best way is to take an adult dog from a shelter where their character is already known. But if you choose a puppy, you are likely to get a calm pet who will not hate you for an 8-hour workday.

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