Plenty of apartment buildings, including the newest ones, allow large dogs, even if the “official rules” or lease says otherwise. You just have to start looking and asking. DC is very dog friendly, even for certain breeds that have been singled out.

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Don’t register your dog as an ESA if it’s not. That’s just abusing the system for the people who actually need an ESA.

Honest question, why would you move into a small apartment with no yard in the city with such a large dog? Doesn't seem fair to the dog.

Came here to say this. Having a large breed in a small living space is inhumane.

Why stop there? Get yourself a handicapped placard you don't need so you can park more comfortably. /s

Bad call, my dude.

Rent the first floor of a row house from an independent owner where your entry/exit opens to the back yard for a dog like that, IMHO.

That's going to be your best option for a big dog on a budget and it may be hard to find the right deal.

Seconding the "boo large dog small city apt" argument.

A friend of mine got with some dude and moved em to town including his huge great Dane. He had to be put down but before that the walls were lined with his blood because there's nowhere in the apt he could wag his tail without hitting something. They started tying it down under him with a cloth or something, it broke my damn heart they wouldn't give him up or hold out for a bigger place. Then there's also the overall issue of a great Dane kept in a 1br apt all day.

This dude by my house breeds German Shepards and keeps them outside 24/7/365 unless they're brought in to bone. They go off at anything that moves because they're kept 5-6 in half of a residential city lot with no engagement, training, or enrichment - they're just cattle.

If you have an animal then your animals needs should be just as important a part of decision making, full stop.

When I was in DC I thought it was weird how many big breeds I saw. IDC I love big dogs but I'm always concerned that they don't have enough room at home.

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Some dog owners are just the fucking worst.

Yeah I didn’t wanna cheat the system 😂

I have considered re-homing the dog yes absolutely. Just wanted to check with those who could possibly own a gsd in this area and make it work. I also would be looking for a 2 bedroom on the 1st or second floor to make sure he can get that homey feel from looking outside and being on the ground. Not to mention having someone work from home with him. He’s able to have company. I mentioned it didn’t have to be in the city. Thank you for sharing your experiences though. RIP to that Great Dane :(

To be clear, I'm not judging you on the matter. If anything it's praise for considering the matter at all cause most people just......... Don't.

He was a sweet dog but honestly I'm kinda happy for him, that apartment HAD to be a terrible time.

Thanks for answering my question with insight !

Thanks for the insight !

That’s exactly what I do now!

Totally. I have a larger dog, but I have it worked out. And we go on a lot of daily walks.