Absolutely! You can keep a dog in an apartment, but you need to consider a few important factors. The size of your apartment, your ability to handle a small or big dog, and the time you can dedicate to your pet are key. Regular walks, proper feeding space, and ensuring your apartment is safe for the dog are essential. With the right approach, apartment living with a dog is totally doable.

The first seven days are about observing and adapting. Ask the person or breeder from whom you brought the pup about its feeding schedule and habits. Feed at the same time and place. Monitor their bowel movements carefully to understand their natural rhythm. Don’t force changes on the puppy; instead, let their habits guide you. Gradually, you will find a routine that suits both you and your pet.

Regular vet visits are mostly important during the first three months for vaccinations. Once you’re familiar with proper feeding, deworming, and general care, routine visits aren’t necessary. However, visiting the vet every three months is a good practice, especially if your pet shows signs of sickness. Stay vigilant and proactive.

Yes, but with preparation. Puppies should not be left alone for more than 2–3 hours, while adult dogs can usually manage 6–8 hours with proper training, toys, and a safe space. Cats are more independent, but they still need fresh food, water, and a clean litter box before you step out.

On average, monthly costs include food (₹2,000–6,000 depending on breed/size), vet visits (₹1,000–3,000), and grooming (₹500–2,000). Bigger breeds and imported foods increase this cost. Planning ahead ensures you don’t face sudden financial stress.

Many small breeds adapt well to apartment living, but large breeds can too, with the right care. Toy breeds like Pomeranians, Shih Tzus, Bichon Frises, and Poodles are popular choices. For non-shedding breeds, consider Goldendoodles or Labradoodles, especially in northern India. The key is understanding your space and your pet’s exercise needs.

It depends on the breed and age. Small toy breeds like Pomeranians or Shih Tzus may only need two walks per day when fully grown. Puppies need more frequent outings—initially every hour—to develop good habits. For all breeds, a clean home and healthy digestive system require at least three walks daily.

First, figure out why your dog is barking. Is it lack of socialization, irritation, or excess energy? Many times, dogs bark because they need more interaction or exercise. Instead of scolding, engage your pet more. Regular playtime and walks help reduce unnecessary barking significantly.

Both can work, but balance is key. Home food should be supplemented with protein (chicken, eggs, paneer), vegetables (carrots, pumpkin), and rice/oats, while avoiding harmful foods like onion, garlic, or chocolate. Packaged dog food is nutritionally balanced but choose good-quality, vet-approved brands.

Small dogs need at least 30 minutes a day, medium dogs 1 hour, and large/working breeds (like German Shepherds, Huskies, Labradors) often need 1.5–2 hours split between walks and play. Exercise keeps them fit, prevents obesity, and reduces behavior problems like chewing and barking.

Chewing is natural, especially in puppies during teething. But if it continues in adults, it may signal boredom, lack of exercise, or anxiety. Offer chew toys, interactive games, and enough walks to redirect this behavior. Never punish, always redirect.

No, cats don’t need milk every day. There are specialized cat foods and gravies available that are far better for their nutrition. Keep fresh cat food in a bowl, and your cat will eat as needed. Milk is not an essential part of their diet.

Cats naturally scratch to mark territory and maintain their claws. Provide a variety of scratch pads—different sizes and shapes. Use catnip spray on the pads to attract your cat. This will redirect their scratching instinct away from your furniture, keeping both your cat and your home happy.

This may happen if the litter box is dirty, placed in a noisy spot, or if your cat has a urinary infection. Clean the box daily, place it in a quiet corner, and if the problem continues, consult a vet. Cats are very clean animals—they avoid dirty litter.

Most cats groom themselves and don’t need frequent baths. Long-haired cats may need occasional grooming and brushing, but baths should only be done if they are very dirty or have skin issues. Use cat-specific shampoos only.

Small amounts of cooked chicken, eggs, pumpkin, or cucumber.Unsafe: Onion, garlic, grapes, chocolate, dairy (for most cats), and fried or spicy food. Always stick to balanced cat food for nutrition.

Vaccination is crucial. Puppies get their first vaccine (DP) on day 30, followed by a 9-in-1 or 10-in-1 at 45 days, as advised by your vet. Continue yearly vaccinations once they mature. Deworming should happen monthly for the first nine months, then every three months thereafter. It’s vital for both your pet’s health and your family’s safety.

Don’t panic, but act fast. Contact your vet immediately and reschedule the missed vaccine. Timely vaccinations protect your pet from diseases and prevent risks to human health too. Keep a record and set reminders to avoid missing doses in the future.

A good pet first aid kit should include:

Bandages
Antiseptic powder and cream
Botoclot (for bleeding control)
Basic grooming scissors

These help you handle minor injuries before you can consult your vet.

Regular tick checks after walks, medicated tick collars or spot-on treatments, and keeping bedding clean are the best defenses. In summers and monsoons, be extra vigilant. Consult your vet for preventive medicines suitable for your pet’s age and breed.

Most dogs should be bathed once every 4–6 weeks. Over-bathing strips natural oils and causes skin dryness. Always use pet shampoos, never human ones. In between, wiping with a damp cloth is enough.

Start slow. Keep them in separate rooms at first, let them sniff each other’s scent on toys or bedding, then allow short, supervised meetings. Never force interaction—patience and gradual exposure build harmony.

Prepare early. Adjust your pet’s routine before the baby arrives, introduce them to baby sounds and smells, and maintain their walk/play schedule. Never ignore your pet after the baby is born—balance attention so they don’t feel left out.

Being a pet parent is a journey. At Petgards, we’re pet lovers building a community to share trusted advice, expert solutions, and heartfelt stories. Join us for real, reliable, and caring guidance—because your pet deserves the best.

Once you sign up on Petgards, our team will check if your city is covered and then get in touch to understand your schedule. Rajeev Ji, along with his expert team, will personally visit your home. It’s not just a routine visit—they observe your pet’s behavior, assess the home environment, and provide customized, hands-on guidance about care, diet, behavior management, and health concerns. It’s practical, real-time advice you can trust, straight from a seasoned pet care expert.

We love hearing your pet stories! To get featured, simply share your unique story and tag us @petgards in your Instagram posts. Each week, our team handpicks inspiring, fun, or heartfelt stories that reflect the bond between you and your pet. This is your chance to showcase your furry friend to the growing Petgards community and get expert tips in return.

Absolutely! Rajeev Ji believes in building a strong pet parent community by sharing real knowledge. Follow us on Instagram @petgards and drop your personal pet questions in our DM or respond to our Q&A stories. Every week, Rajeev Ji selects thoughtful queries and provides in-depth, practical answers based on years of hands-on experience. This is your direct access to trusted pet care expertise.