Living in a small home with a dog, let alone two, comes with its challenges, but it can also be cosy, comfortable and practical. With a little creative space planning and the use of multi-purpose, dog-friendly furniture, a studio can work well for both you and your dogs without sacrificing your style.

Studio Apartment Layout & Dog-Friendly Decor

Create Intentional Zones for You and Your Dogs

In a studio apartment, every square metre counts, so creating clear zones can help your space feel organised without making it feel cramped. I learned that from watching Alexandra Gater’s Studio Fix, and I’ve never looked back.

Our home is relaxed, but each area has a purpose: the kitchen is for meal prep, the living room is for eating and hanging out, and the bedroom is our shared space for resting.

Luna and Taner even have their own spots in the living room at mealtimes, and they know to stay there until both bowls are empty.

An area rug also helps define the living room and anchor the sofa and table, while a non-slip rug underlay keeps everything in place during zoomies, or when you’re naturally clumsy, like me.

Choose Dog-Friendly Furniture and Fabrics

Furniture makes a big difference in a small apartment, especially with active dogs. I keep our layout fairly open, with enough floor space for Luna and Taner to move, play and zoom around.

Airy, raised or multi-functional furniture can help maximise floor space without making the room feel cramped. When choosing furniture, think about your dog’s size, breed and habits alongside your personal style.

Durable, washable fabrics are worth prioritising. I’ve found microfiber, heavy-duty canvas and high-quality velvet to be good options, with velvet being my personal favourite.

I also have sofa cushion covers with zips so I can remove and wash them easily. The same applies to dog beds. Removable, machine-washable covers make it easy to keep everything clean.

Pet-Proofing & Safety for Small Apartments

In a studio, your dog is close to almost everything, so pet-proofing is important. Keep cleaning products, medication and small objects out of reach, and secure anything they could knock over.

Pay extra attention to electrical cables, especially if you have a curious chewer. Taner quickly taught me that dangling chargers are irresistible, so I now put cables away when they are not being used and use covers to protect exposed wires.

It’s also worth regularly checking your home from your dog’s perspective. As they become more curious and confident, new hazards can appear.

Creative Storage for Pet Essentials

Dog toys, leads, grooming supplies and other essentials can quickly take over a small home. Decorative baskets, containers and multi-functional furniture with hidden storage can keep everything organised without cluttering your space.

I love woven baskets because they fit perfectly with my boho-Scandinavian style. I also dedicate sections of my cupboards and shelves to Luna and Taner, using smaller baskets and containers to keep everything organised and easy to find.

Cleaning & Odour Control in Small Spaces

Routine Cleaning Hacks for Studio Living

I work a 9-to-5, so I don’t have the time or energy to clean every day unless something needs immediate attention. Instead, I stick to a weekly cleaning routine, usually on the weekend or Friday evening if I don’t have plans.

My dog-focused cleaning routine is fairly simple:

1. Vacuum the bed with an upholstery attachment before removing the bedding, then wash everything.
2. Brush pet hair from the sofa before vacuuming it.
3. Vacuum the rug, roll it up, then sweep underneath and move low furniture to reach hidden fur and dust.
4. Vacuum the floor again once everything has been collected, then mop.
5. Dust surfaces and wipe down the kitchen to finish.

I have a more detailed cleaning routine for the rest of the apartment, but since it isn’t dog-specific, I’ll spare you the details.

Accident and Odour Removal

For accidents, I use a pet-safe enzymatic cleaner to break down stains and odours at the source rather than simply masking them. I clean accidents as soon as possible, then follow up with my usual vinegar solution during my weekly clean.

For washable fabrics such as bedding, sofa covers and rugs, I soak them in a vinegar-and-water solution before washing. Larger items, such as curtains, get spot-treated with enzymatic cleaner before being washed during my regular cleaning routine.

Exercise & Mental Stimulation for Apartment Dogs

Ensure Your Dog Gets Enough Exercise

Living in a studio doesn’t mean your dog can’t get enough exercise. Their needs depend on their breed, age, health and energy level, but combining physical activity with mental enrichment can help prevent boredom and unwanted behaviour.

I work full-time, so I fit exercise around my schedule. My two terriers love running, and when I can, we head out for an early morning run. On other days, we stick to shorter walks and indoor activities.

I also use simple food-based games to keep them busy. I’ll hide kibble in empty toilet rolls or scatter some around the apartment and garden for them to sniff out before dinner. They get to work for part of their meal, using both their bodies and brains.

Exercise doesn’t always have to mean a long walk. Sniffing, problem-solving, and food games can be just as valuable for an active dog.

Consider Professional Support for Midday Care

If your budget allows, a dog walker, pet sitter or doggy day care can help break up your dog’s day.

For the first few months after Luna and Taner completed their puppy vaccinations, they attended Fury Kidz doggy day care. It allowed them to burn off energy, build confidence and socialise with other dogs in a supervised environment.

If day care isn’t an option, even a 30–60 minute midday walk or play session with a trusted dog walker or pet sitter can make a difference. It can help prevent boredom, reduce pent-up energy and leave you with a calmer dog when you get home.

Whatever option you choose, ask for recommendations, read reviews and make sure your dog’s carer understands their routine, personality and any special needs.

Managing Dog Noise & Shared Spaces in Apartments

living in an apartment means sharing walls and common areas, so training and consideration go a long way.

Teach your dog to stay calm around common triggers such as door knocks, visitors and hallway noises. Reward quiet behaviour and practise short, controlled exposures, gradually increasing the duration as they improve.

It also helps to introduce yourself to your neighbours and let them know you have a dog. If excessive barking becomes an issue, look at your dog’s daily routine first. More exercise, mental stimulation or a midday walk may help.

If the barking continues, consider working with a qualified trainer or behaviourist.

Living in a studio apartment with dogs takes some creativity and planning, but the right setup can make everyday life much easier. Focus on practical layout changes, smart storage and routines that support your dog’s wellbeing, and your home can feel calm, organised and comfortable for both of you.