Pets In A Tiny House? Here’s How to Make It Work

Tiny house living comes with certain sacrifices—downsizing your space and belongings, for example—but giving up your animal companions doesn’t have to be one of them. With thoughtful planning, your pets can thrive in a tiny home just as they would in a larger space. Here’s how to make it work.

Choosing the Right Pet for Tiny Living

Many assume that if a pet is small, they’ll be well-suited to a tiny home, but temperament matters more than size. A large, calm dog may adapt better than a small, high-energy breed. Similarly, a free-roaming rabbit or bird could create more mess than expected. The key is ensuring your pet gets enough exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.

The Psychological Benefits of Pets in a Tiny Home

Living with a pet in a small space can enhance your well-being in several ways.

• Stronger bonds: The close quarters foster a deeper connection between you and your pet.
• Stress reduction: Studies show that pet companionship lowers stress and increases happiness.
• Mindfulness and minimalism: Pets encourage you to focus on simple joys and present moment living.

Best Pets for Tiny Homes

If you don’t already have a pet and are considering one, there are four key factors to keep in mind: temperament, size, shedding, and smell.

• Small animals like fish, reptiles, or mice can work well since they have dedicated enclosures. However, research the required enclosure size—some may take up more space than anticipated.
• Rodents: Hamsters, guinea pigs, and rats are great low-maintenance options, requiring minimal space and
• Rabbits: Rabbits can also thrive in a tiny home, if they have a designated space to hop around and access to a litter box. They do need space to move and play, so consider an enclosed pen or a dedicated area.
• Birds: Budgies and canaries are compact, social, and relatively easy to care for, though they do require mental stimulation.
• Cats: The Russian Blue is a great choice as they are calm, independent, and low shedding. Most cats are naturally clean, but a weekly brushing routine helps manage fur.
• Dogs: Shih Tzus are an excellent option due to their small size, minimal exercise needs, and affectionate nature. Other breeds can also thrive in tiny homes if their exercise and mental stimulation needs are met.

Creating a Comfortable Living Space for Your Pet

Expand Your Space with a Deck Trailer

One of the best ways to maximise your tiny home’s living space—especially for pets—is by adding an Aussie Tiny Houses Deck Trailer. A deck trailer allows your furry friend to enjoy the outdoors safely while staying close to home. Whether it’s a shaded lounging area for your cat or a secure play zone for your dog, a deck trailer helps extend your living area beyond your tiny home’s walls. The Deck Trailer with Pergola is also available with an extra room (pod), offering a perfect blend of comfort and style to enhance your living space with added indoor versatility.

Sleeping Arrangements

Even if your pet loves cuddling with you at night, they still need their own designated space. A built-in nook under cupboards or at the end of a kitchen bench can make an excellent pet bed spot—keeping them comfortable while staying out of the way. For cats, consider window-mounted beds that provide a cosy perch with a great view.

Food and Water Solutions

Finding the right spot for food and water bowls in a tiny house can be tricky. Here are some space-saving ideas:

• Water bottles: Some cats can use water bottles mounted on a wall to save floor space.
• Slide-out feeding drawer: Some tiny house owners install a pull-out drawer in the kitchen kickboard for food and water bowls. While practical, it may be difficult to clean and could attract ants.
• Bathroom placement: Keeping a water bowl in the bathroom ensures that spills aren’t an issue.
• Mat in a corner: Placing food and water on a mat in an out-of-the-way corner helps contain mess.

Managing Pet Toilets in a Tiny House

No one wants lingering pet odours, so it’s crucial to manage bathroom needs properly.

• Dogs: Regular walks or training them to signal when they need to go outside will keep your home fresh. If necessary, puppy pads in the bathroom are an alternative.
• Cats: Litter boxes can be discreetly placed in the bathroom, inside a cupboard with a small entry hole, or hidden in furniture designed to blend with your decor. Frequent cleaning is essential to control odours.

Keeping Your Pet Entertained

Bored pets often become destructive, so entertainment is key in a small home. Keeping pets entertained is essential in a tiny home to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. A variety of indoor toys can help keep them mentally and physically stimulated.

For outdoor time,

• Dogs: Should get at least two walks per day to burn off energy.
• Cats: Can enjoy the outdoors too but check local regulations. Leash training or enclosed outdoor spaces are great solutions.
• Rabbits: Can be let outside in a foldable pen but should never be left unattended in direct sunlight.
• Rodents: Hamsters, guinea pigs, and rats benefit from supervised outdoor playtime in a secure pen or enclosure.
• Birds: Enjoy time outside too, but a secure aviary or birdcage is a must to prevent them from flying away.

Keeping Your Tiny Home Clean and Odour-Free

Pet odours can be more noticeable in a small space, but these simple strategies help keep your home fresh:

• Frequent vacuuming and mopping to remove fur and dirt.
• Washable pet bed covers and furniture for easy cleaning.
• Air purifiers to neutralise pet dander and odours.
• Natural deodorisers like baking soda sprinkled on carpets before vacuuming.

Tiny House, Big Love

The tiny house movement is about prioritising lifestyle over possessions—and for many, that includes keeping beloved pets. While living with an animal in a small space comes with unique challenges, smart planning ensures that both you and your pet enjoy a happy and fulfilling tiny home life.