Thinking about getting a dog? It’s important to make sure you can meet their needs—but does that really mean you need a yard? Not necessarily! Let’s break it down.
What does a dog really need?
Besides food and water, a happy and healthy dog needs three key things:
- exercise
- mental stimulation
- social interaction
Regular walks, playtime, and quality time with you are far more important than the size of your outdoor space. Dogs who get to walk, sniff, and run every day won’t miss having a big garden.
Of course, a yard can be convenient. It’s great for quick bathroom breaks, especially for puppies who are still house-training or older dogs with weaker bladders. Some dogs also love to just relax outside. But when it comes to real exercise and enrichment, a walk to the park is always better.
In fact, having a yard can sometimes have the opposite effect. If your dog spends a lot of time outside, you might think they don’t need regular walks—but they do! Exploring new scents, stretching their legs, and meeting other dogs are essential for their physical and mental well-being.
When is a yard actually useful?
For some dogs, having a private outdoor space can be a real bonus:
- high-energy breeds like border collies, huskies, and terriers benefit from extra space to run and dig
- large breeds such as Bernese mountain dogs or great Danes move more comfortably in a spacious yard
- independent breeds like Akitas enjoy a safe area to roam and explore on their own
- dogs with special needs, such as unvaccinated puppies, anxious dogs, or older dogs with mobility issues, may feel safer going outside in a controlled environment
That said, even in these cases, a yard is a nice addition, not a replacement for regular walks.
No yard? No problem.
If you don’t have a yard, don’t worry—many dogs thrive without one! The key is making sure they get enough outdoor time. Mixing up your routine also helps: a walk around the block, a trip to the park, or even a day at the beach or forest can do wonders.
Here’s how to make up for not having a private outdoor space:
- make walks more exciting – change up your routes, bring toys, or practice commands along the way
- get creative indoors – puzzle toys, snuffle mats, and interactive games can keep your dog mentally engaged
And if you’re short on time? A dog walker or sitter from Pawshake can step in to help. Whether you have a busy workday or need an extra hand with a high-energy pup, a Pawshake sitter can make sure your dog gets the exercise and attention they need.
Which dog breeds can live happily without a yard?
Some breeds adapt easily to life without a garden. Small dogs like maltese or chihuahuas often prefer being close to their humans over having lots of space. Low-energy dogs like basset hounds or great Danes are also happy with a relaxed routine.
But in reality, any dog can live without a yard—as long as their needs are met. That doesn’t mean "easy" breeds can be left alone all day, though. Every dog, no matter the size or energy level, needs enough exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
It's all about attention
Having a yard is nice, but it’s not essential. As long as you invest time and love into your dog, they’ll be perfectly happy—even without a private outdoor space. The key is choosing a dog that fits your lifestyle and making time in your schedule for walks and play. And if you ever need an extra hand, a Pawshake sitter or dog walker is always there to help!
