How to Thrive in a Tiny Home with Your Dog
Have you ever seen a tiny home and thought that there’s no way you and your dog could successfully live in one? Turns out, living in a tiny home with Fido is easier than you may think! Here is everything you need to know to thrive in a tiny home with your dog.
Benefits of Living in a Tiny House
Although living in a tiny home may require you to make some sacrifices, there are several benefits to this lifestyle. First and foremost, living in a small space encourages you and your pup to spend as much time outdoors as possible. Additionally, tiny homes take less of a toll on your budget and the environment. Living in a small space also allows you to be close to your furry friend at all times. This will strengthen your bond with your pup, increase your emotional connection, and reduce separation anxiety. Being near your dog at all times will reduce your stress levels as well since petting canines is proven to increase oxytocin and lower cortisol.
In addition to strengthening your bond with your pup, living in a tiny home can also improve your mental and physical well-being. Living with a dog encourages regular outdoor exercise, especially when there’s less space for your pup to roam around inside. This lifestyle also encourages minimalism and a simplistic point of view. Residents of tiny homes often find new joy in simple living and each present moment.
Designing a Tiny House Fit for a Dog
It’s important to keep your furry friend in mind when designing your living space, especially if you own a large dog. If you’re building your tiny home, incorporate specific places for your pup’s items. Having designated nooks and corners for properly storing Fido’s food, water bowls, and beds will prevent their items from being kicked or tripped on constantly. You may want to consider purchasing compact items such as collapsable food bowls and hanging hooks for leashes and accessories. Build as much storage as possible when designing your tiny home.
Many storage problems can be resolved with a bit of creativity. One way to maximize your space is to use multifunctional solutions that cater to human and canine needs. You could incorporate coffee tables that double as dog crates, a bench with hidden storage that your pup can rest on, and a collapsable or sliding bed. Additionally, take your pup’s safety into account when planning your home. If you plan on having a loft that requires stairs, ensure they aren’t too steep for your dog to climb safely. We also recommend covering stairs with carpet or rubber to give Fido extra traction. Designing a tiny home with your pup in mind will improve their safety and quality of life.
Adjusting to the Change in Space
If you decide to live in a tiny home with your furry friend, it may be challenging to adjust to the change in space. Moving into a tiny home is a big adjustment, especially if you’re accustomed to having plenty of room for your dog’s belongings. However, there are several ways to make adjusting to this change easier. First, you may need to pair down your pup’s belongings. While you shouldn’t part with necessities such as a leash, harness, or medicine, you may want to scale down unnecessary items. Since you’ll have limited storage space, you’ll want to be practical with what you purchase and pack for your dog.
Additionally, spend as much time outside with your pup as possible while you both adjust to your new living quarters. If you live in a location with plenty of land, you can let your Fido roam and run around on a tie-out leash. This will allow them to exert their energy during the day while you cook, clean, or work in the house. If you live near a park, you can also take them on regular walks to exert their energy and allow them to socialize with other pups.
Lastly, keep in mind that dogs are less picky than you think. Canines are adaptable creatures that can thrive in any living environment as long as they receive the proper level of care. As long as dogs get to spend time with their human companions, they’ll be happy in any living environment.
Tips for Keeping Your Tiny Home Tidy
It’s easy for your living space to get messy when you live in a tiny home with your furry friend. Thankfully, a tiny house takes no time at all to clean. Here are a few tips for maintaining a clean space in your tiny home.
- Choose easy-to-clean materials and surfaces when building your home
- Trim, bathe, and brush your dog regularly
- Regularly air out your living space with open windows or fans
- Use pet-safe odor neutralizers to minimize the dog smells in your home
- Wash Fido’s bedding and toys often
- Consider investing in an air purifier to minimize pet hair, dander, and odors in the air
- Regularly sweep, vacuum, and mop your home, especially in the places Fido frequents
- Create designated areas for your pup to eat, sleep, and play
Although living in a tiny home may not be ideal for every dog owner, there are countless people and pets that live happy lives in one. Tiny homes promote a practical and outdoors-oriented lifestyle that allows you and your pets to bond closer together than ever. No matter where you live, your furry friend will be happy to come along for the ride!
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