Basenji: silent independence

This breed from Central Africa is known for not barking (they emit purring sounds). Basenjis are incredibly clean (they groom themselves like cats), which is a plus for an apartment. They are smart but stubborn. They cope with loneliness calmly if they are provided with toys-puzzles. However, Basenjis are destructors if they get bored: they may chew on wallpaper. Therefore, it is important to prepare the apartment and tire them out before leaving.

Chow Chow: lazy cats with the character of a lion

Chow Chows are dog-cats. They love to sleep for 12-14 hours a day, do not require active games. Ideal for those who work from 9 to 18. Chows are indifferent to what is happening around if their territory is safe. However, their fur requires care, and their character requires patience. They will not suffer from loneliness, 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 apartment dogs for Chinese emperors. They cope well with loneliness if they are given access to the litter box (although it is better to walk them). They are not prone to destruction, but may whine if not trained. Important: Shih Tzus shed, but they 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 cope with loneliness 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 perfect 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 they are trained from an early 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 an excellent option for an urban apartment. The main thing is not to have two, otherwise they will have 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. However, they need long walks (an hour in the morning and evening) to release energy. The rest of the time they are ideal apartment dogs. Drawbacks: they shed heavily (twice a year in clumps).

Border Collie? No, that's not it

Many think that Border Collies are smart and can stay alone. This is a dangerous misconception. Border Collies are working dogs created for herding. Without work and a master, 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 sheepdogs.

How to train any dog to cope with loneliness

Even the most independent breed can turn into a neurotic if you do not prepare it properly. Start with 5 minutes, gradually increasing the time. Leave toys-kong with treats. Do not have a noisy farewell and greeting. Create a safe place (a cage or a bed in a quiet corner). Never punish for a mess that happened while you were not there (the dog will not associate the punishment with past actions).

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

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