What's the best pet to have in an apartment? I would have to leave it alone for at least 8 hours a day, but I want something that will sit on my lap when I come home. Is a cat my best bet, or is there some other creature that fits this description?
The best type of small dogs for apartments is something small enough to be able to train on a piddle pad that you can buy at any pet store, since you will be leaving them for at least 8 hours a day. You will need to be very consistent when potty training because small dogs are the hardest to train for the paper, but easiest to train in a crate.
I've got several types of dogs that will fit your situation, but I also want to make you aware that most small dogs do have a tendency to be a little on the yappy side, this may be something you also want to take into consideration before making a final decision. I am listing the breads in order of which I personally prefer in regards to personalities.
I have placed an * by the dogs which are considered hypo-allergenic if you have allergies
1. Yorkshire Terriers*- great dog, will attach to only one person, they have a big dog attitude.
2. Pugs- They make great dogs throughout life, they like all people, even kids. They do however require some physical activity because they do tend to get overweight.
3.Dachshunds- Great dogs, lots of fun! You do have to be careful not to overfeeed since their bellys are so low to the ground if the belly gets too heavy it can cause serious back problems.
4.Shih Tzus*- All around great dog, their grooming bills can get costly though.
5.Pomeranians- They are good watch dogs, however they are VERY yappy. Sweet dogs, will require some grooming.
6.Chihuahuas- They tend to pick one individual and latch on, they don't make great family dogs because they don't do well with kids. They are also very yappy.
Hope this helps and that you choose a great dog to fit your situation!
Like your first responder, I think that birds make a good pet. However, if you're not a "bird person" then you may want to be careful. Birds require a lot of attention when you are home and they don't really just sit in your lap. Further they can be loud and/or destructive. But, if you are a bird person, or one who can devote the time when home, then birds are a great choice.
I'm not sure if you'd be up for this, but snakes will sit in your lap when you get home and they don't really care if you're gone for days at a time. The downside here, though, is that they aren't that affectionate.
Guinea pigs, after trained, can be a really good apartment pet. They don't make tons of noise, are fairly clean, and once they get used to you can be affectionate.
I also think that rats are amazing pets. They are super smart and really easy to take care of. They won't necessarily "sit in your lap" but they are very sensitive and wonderful pets. You don't need much to set them up and the only worry would be them going to the bathroom while crawling on you.
Unless you're a dog person and don't mind the hassle, I wouldn'y pick the dog. You have to walk them before you go to work and as soon as you come home. Rain or shine. You can't jsut let them out in your yard when you have an apartment.
Finally, remember that while cats are great pets, not all cats will sit in your lap and have you pet them. My cat, for instance, will sit in my lap but only when SHE wants to. I can't call her. I can't force it. So, it is possible that when you want to sit down after a hard day of work with your cat, she might not be in the mood.
I hope that I have helped you some. Good luck with your choice.
Your first instinct was correct.. Find a kitten that already knows how to use a litter box and you are set. They pretty much take care of themselves, and they are very affectionate when you are around.
And no pesky trips home during your lunch break to walk your pet.
If you want affection and low maintenance, go with the cat.
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