Training tips that have helped me raise a dog while living in an apartment:
Make them sit before exiting your apartment - in case other dogs or people who don’t like dogs and/or are afraid of dogs are in the hallway passing your unit door. You never want to let your dog go first out of the doorway. This is showing your dog not only that you're in charge, but to respect others and to be obedient.
What do dogs love most? FOOD. Another great training tip is to make them wait before giving them their food. Then say "okay" or "dinner" or another simple single word command that means it's time to eat. This command makes sure they know you are the one in control. It sets a good boundary with your dog that you are the owner and that they need to respect you and listen to you. It also stops the dog from charging you at dinner time and spilling a bag of kibble all over the floor...
Crate training and potty training is critical when you first get a puppy. We were lucky enough that our little one was really good when we first got him. I found taking him out regularly when he was small helped him realize outside is the only spot to go. Because of their small bladders as puppies, it's crucial to take them out more than full-grown dogs. Nobody wants their pet going to the bathroom in spots that they aren't supposed to go. Also, most landlords will charge you for the damage it causes. Keep your dog in a small enough crate at the very start when they are young. This will show them that it's important not to go to the bathroom where they sleep. Basically it encourages and helps them to respect their home and yours.
Do your research prior to getting a puppy! Not only will it help you find the best fit for your family and environment, it will also make you understand the dog's needs. For example, I always knew I loved Dachshund's or, as I like to call them, weiner dogs. When doing my research I found out they do have a high risk of getting back problems. This is because their backs are so long and extended and they have small legs. Understanding this has allowed me to take measures to prevent injury such as putting stairs in front of high furniture like our bed and couch. Training him to use the stairs was a whole other story ... If you are interested in hearing more about this, give a comment below and I'd be happy to share that experience.
Call your dog and repeat their name out loud a lot when you first get them. This ensures they understand who they are and when to come. They learn to listen to their owner. Consistent commands help to create obedience and will be especially beneficial when you have company over. You can read more about preventing your pup from relentless barking here.
Many people who live in apartments allow their dogs off leash. I have never agreed with this dangerous practise. It seems like most of the scary videos you see online (when dogs get into fights or are hit by cars, etc.) are when someone's dog is off leash. If you must do this, then make sure you don't do it downtown or in other high traffic areas. And don't do it near apartment buildings as you never know who will come out and be bothered by an off leash dog. There are ways you to train your dog so they behave off leash, but it could still make others uncomfortable or even afraid.
"Dog training is a never ending process of evolving" - Ivan Balabanov, dog trainer.
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