City vs country pets: understanding the differences

Written by Pip Harry for Australian Seniors

Whether you’re a city slicker or a country lover, where you land on the map can impact every part of your pet’s life. “Where we live significantly shapes our daily routines, and that includes how we interact with our pets,” SASH Adelaide vet Dr Alex Hibbard says. 

“In urban areas, pets are more likely to live indoors, go on leash walks around the neighbourhood, socialise at dog parks, and even accompany us to cafes. In contrast, rural pets often spend more time outdoors, roam off-leash on properties or at local reserves, and may ride in the ute to the shops for company.”

Indoor dogs often become deeply integrated into our daily lives, Dr Hibbard says. “They can become almost like part of the furniture. Outdoor dogs, on the other hand, may have a different kind of relationship with us, sometimes serving working or guarding roles.”

Samantha Freeman, 51, lives on a rural property in the Central Tablelands region of NSW and owns six working kelpies who relish their daily routine. “They like lots of activity and working. They get bored when they don’t get to work with the sheep and cattle often,” Samantha says. “Our dogs are a huge part of our lives. They do the work of an employee and are essential to the running of the farm. We really love them all and value how hard they work.” 

Samantha’s dogs sleep outside in cages, except for retired Shimmer, 17, who potters around the home. “Shimmer likes to visit the other dogs outside in their cages but is very quick to get to the back door and be first in the house in the evening, particularly to be in front of the fire in winter!” Samantha shares. 

The family adores their working dogs but finding a pet sitter can be difficult. “They aren’t really the type of dogs that would go into kennels and there are too many of them. If we want to travel, it can be hard to find someone to stay and look after them.”

If you’re thinking of bringing your furry friend along on trips, here are 7 questions to ask before travelling with your pet. 

Risks for pets in rural areas

There can be other challenges to owning animals in the country. “Rural pets face greater risks from environmental hazards,” Dr Hibbard explains. “Snake bites are more common, and injuries from working with livestock – like kicks from horses or trampling by cattle – are more frequent.” 

Michèle Heibel, 52, lives in Wonnarua Country in the Hunter Valley, NSW, and owns five-year-old golden labrador Gumnut, budgie Kakapo and chickens Josephine and Rebel. She keeps a close eye on all her pets. “Butcherbirds hang around and they can see budgies as fast food,” she says. “And Gumnut is fascinated by snakes and has had at least five live snake encounters. We are lucky the vet is only a 15-minute drive away but in case of a brown snake bite, this can still be too long.” 

“One of the biggest challenges in rural areas is access to veterinary care, especially emergency or 24-hour services,” Dr Hibbard says. “There are typically fewer clinics, with limited staff covering large regions. Many vets operate on an ‘on-call’ basis. Access to specialists is also limited. If a pet needs advanced care – like chemotherapy for cancer – owners may have to travel long distances, often repeatedly, which can be logistically and emotionally challenging.”

This is significant, as the 2022 Pets in Australia Report from Animal Medicines Australia finds that 74% of pet owners are from regional or rural households, and 60% of people based in regional areas who currently don’t have a pet are interested in owning dogs.

Challenges of owning pets in the city

However, there are considerations for city-based pets, too. “Urban pets face a different set of challenges,” Dr Hibbard elaborates. “Many live in smaller homes or apartments and are left alone for extended periods. This can lead to boredom, anxiety, and unwanted behaviours like barking, digging or destructive chewing. These issues can be exacerbated by stressful events like fireworks or loud city noises.” 

Urban environments also pose safety risks. “High traffic areas mean that escaped pets are at greater risk of being involved in motor vehicle accidents or fights in dog parks.”

Patsy Wellington, 50, lives in Melbourne with her 13-year-old city cat Spiderman and has found working from home to be a benefit. “I started working 100% from home recently and Spidey thinks this is brilliant. She’s worked out my routine and expects cuddles on my lunchbreak. If a meeting runs over, she gets very demanding. City pets do have a slower life. There is less to stimulate them. But I don’t believe cats should be allowed outside. They have been bred to be companion animals.”

Debbie Page, 50, has experienced both urban and rural life with her two rescue dachshunds Flouffy and Snooty, relocating from Sydney to the nearby Blue Mountains. “My first dog Snooty was fine living in the city, however Flouffy is formerly mistreated and incredibly reactive with all other dogs and people. Living in a densely populated urban area was a nightmare.”

“Here we can take long walks without her getting set off and she has a huge garden to peaceably snoot about in. It’s a far, far better quality of life for her, and me, and was a huge reason I moved to the mountains with them. I could never take her back to the city now.”

The good news is most animals can adapt and thrive in any living environment if we understand and meet their needs, says Dr Hibbard. “With the right training and commitment, our pets can adapt to either urban or rural life.”

Best dog breeds for your lifestyle

For urban living, especially in smaller, compact homes, Dr Hibbard recommends dog breeds that are relaxed, family-friendly and adaptable. For rural settings, where there’s more space and freedom, consider more active breeds that enjoy outdoor life.

Dog breeds ideal for city dwellers

Border terrier

Compact, curious, and full of personality, border terriers are ideal for city living. Their moderate exercise needs and adaptable nature make them great companions for apartment dwellers who enjoy daily walks and weekend adventures.

Maltese

With their gentle temperament and love of lap time, Maltese dogs thrive in urban homes. These pint-sized charmers are perfect for smaller spaces and enjoy being pampered, making them a favourite among city dwellers who want a cuddly companion.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Affectionate and sociable, Cavaliers are well-suited to the city lifestyle. They’re content lounging indoors but also enjoy outings to dog-friendly cafes and parks. Their easy-going nature makes them a hit with families and singles alike.

Dog breeds suited for country living 

Kelpies

Born to work, kelpies are energetic and intelligent dogs that thrive on rural properties. Whether herding livestock or running alongside a ute, they need plenty of stimulation and space to stay happy and healthy.

Golden Retrievers

Friendly, loyal, and always up for a game of fetch, golden retrievers flourish in rural settings where they can stretch their legs and explore. Their sociable nature and love of outdoor play make them ideal for active country families.

Labradors

Versatile and good-natured, labradors adapt well to country life. Whether helping with chores, playing with kids, or keeping watch over the property, they’re dependable and affectionate members of rural households.

Border Collies

Highly trainable and bursting with energy, border collies are the ultimate country companions. They excel in working roles and love having a job to do, making them perfect for farms and large properties.

Read more: Which dog breed is best for you?