Hey there, fellow dog lovers! Listen up because I’ve got some fantastic news for all you apartment dwellers out there! Contrary to some outdated beliefs, living in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t have a furry companion. Oh no, there are plenty of adorable pups that are just perfect for apartment living!
I mean, seriously, who said dogs need a huge backyard to be happy? Research has shown that many dogs can thrive in apartments as long as they get enough exercise and daily walks. And guess what? Living in an apartment has nothing to do with bad hygiene either! So, let’s put those worries to rest.
Now, here’s something important to remember: it’s not about the size of the dog, folks! Whether you’re dreaming of a cute little toy breed or a majestic giant breed, what really matters is their energy levels and exercise needs. I mean, a tiny dog might seem like a perfect fit, but they might surprise you with their vocal talents or bursts of energy in a small space.
We need to consider a few key factors when choosing the ultimate apartment doggo. First off, how loud and vocal are they? We don’t want our neighbors knocking on our door with complaints, do we? Next up, let’s think about their energy expenditure. We want our furry friends to have fun, but we also need to ensure they’re not bouncing off the walls all day long.
And exercise, oh boy, exercise is crucial! We gotta take them out for walks, but they also need some space to romp and play. After all, they deserve the best life we can give them!
Choosing the right dog for your apartment also makes training a breeze! No need for fancy gadgets or expensive trainers. Trust me, with the right fit, you’ll be the proudest dog parent ever.
Okay, now the moment you’ve been waiting for: the ultimate list of best apartment dogs! These cuties are all great choices, so no favorites here. It’s like a dream team of apartment-appropriate pups!
So, if you’re ready to fill your apartment with wagging tails, endless cuddles, and unconditional love, check out these adorable apartment dog breeds. They’ll bring joy and companionship into your life without a doubt!
Let’s embrace the apartment dog life and show the world how amazing these little (or big) buddies can be in any cozy space!
Best Apartment Dogs
1. Maltese
Why it’s suitable: Maltese is a breed that usually weights around 10 pounds, so they are small dogs.
These breeds don’t bark a lot at all, and love being close to their owners, which is exactly what you want in a dog for the apartment.
Because of their silk fur, they don’t shed too much, so the cleaning won’t be such a hassle when living together in a smaller space.
They love being indoors, which also works out for you even if you have a house — at least you don’t need to buy any additional equipment like dog houses, in ground fences and other things.
2. Boston Terrier
Why it’s suitable: Boston Terriers are never big either, usually weighting in at around 13-15 pounds, and they absolutely love their owners, which means you’ll see them all the time.
Being a very coach-able breed, Boston Terriers can learn all the necessary apartment etiquette on a whim and live you with in peace and harmony for a long time.
3. English Bulldog
Why it’s suitable: As you may well know, English Bulldogs are one of the laziest breeds we have around, but they’re also one of the most awesome.
They are bigger than the breeds mentioned above as their weight is around 50 pounds, but are actually most comfortable in smaller closed spaces. It’s a perfect apartment dog.
4. French Bulldog
Why it’s suitable: If Boston Terrier is too small, and English Bulldog is too big, then your best bet is the French Bulldog — a smaller version of their English brothers.
French Bulldogs are twice as small as English Bulldogs and normally weight about 20 pounds.
While not as lazy, they love to spend time just lying around in some comfortable space, doing nothing. They are a quiet breed and will not disturb your neighbors.
5. Great Dane
Why it’s suitable: Time to switch things up a little, and who’s more unexpected than the famous Great Dane.
Most people would normally think that such a huge dog is an absolute no-no for an apartment living, but turns out that Great Danes are actually one of the best apartment dogs.
They weight from 100 to 140 pounds (wow), which means you have to get a separate couch just for the dog and your dog gates won’t work on them, but this breed is very calm and quiet, and takes up less space than some smaller dogs.
They are also very easily trained and are extremely friendly, despite their threatening size.
6. Pug
Why it’s suitable: Now this is no surprise, as Pugs have been known for a long time to be the greatest friends of apartment dwellers, especially in big cities.
This breed is very friendly and will try to always stay with the owner; they don’t mind small, closed up spaces and while they’re not lazy, Pugs love to take naps very often, which then might turn into some snoring (but come on, who doesn’t love that?)
7. Greyhound
Why it’s suitable: Yet another surprise on the list is the 70 pound racing dogs. Surprisingly, Greyhounds prefer not to run around too much and are a very relaxed breed.
Due to them having short hair, they don’t make much of a mess and require very little grooming. If you get a retired Greyhound, he’s going to make a great couch potato buddy for you.
8. Yorkshire Terrier
Why it’s suitable: Did you think I was going to leave this one out of the best apartment dogs list? An obvious choice is of course a Yorkshire Terrier, a very well known small apartment dog.
Mostly popular among women (why?), Yorkies are a so called toy breed that weight around 7 pounds. While they do tend to bark a lot, this usually depends how lucky you get (some of them do bark more than the others).
Yorkies adapt quickly to new environments and are very friendly towards almost anybody – other pets, neighbors, kids. A definite choice for the many for living in smaller places.
9. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Why it’s suitable: Yet another small attention seekers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are very similar to the already mentioned Boston Terriers.
They weight about 15 pounds and are absolutely in love with their owners, constantly craving for attention, which is easy when you’re in a smaller apartment.
They adapt fast, are very quiet and kid-friendly. In fact, this could be one of the most perfect dogs for apartment living.
10. American Staffordshire Terrier
Why it’s suitable: The meaner looking but actually friendly American Staffordshire Terriers are good apartment dogs due to their strong bond with the owner.
The breed is actually a show version of the American Pit Bull Terrier, and they weight around 60 pounds. They do require an occasional exercise, but once that is out of the way, they turn into a perfect smaller space dog.
Although, you should keep in mind that it won’t be easy to negotiate with your landlord when it comes to this breed — they’re not particularly fond of these dogs.
11. Chihuahua
Why it’s suitable: Yes, that’s true, Chihuahuas are known to be kind of pompous, but they aren’t like that all the time.
This is a pretty sweet breed that requires little maintenance, and due to their minimalist-like size, they are perfect for those tiny New York City apartments (that’s a cliche already).
One thing to remember though is that you need kind neighbors, as Chihuahuas can be quite loud occasionally.
12. Basset Hound
Why it’s suitable: The very charismatic Basset Hounds weight about 60 pounds and are perfect apartment dogs.
All they need is some attention from the owner and maybe a toy; the rest of the time they will amuse themselves or just take a nap.
They aren’t too messy, unfortunately, they do like to bark, but looks-wise do not require too much maintenance, either. Definitely an option.
13. Dachshund
Why it’s suitable: Always cute Dachshunds are great for families that live in apartments. They are a small breed that enjoys playing with just anybody and anything, including kids.
Dachshunds do great — but somewhat barky — in apartments and don’t require a lot of exercise, but you do need to keep an eye on their levels of activity, as they love to get fat pretty quickly.
So while you’re enjoying their company in your smaller apartment, make sure to take them out for some exercise on occasion and use only the best dog food, without overfeeding, to avoid obesity.
14. Shih Tzu
Why it’s suitable: Yet another obvious choice are the popular Shih Tzus. Definitely a great option as an apartment breed, as they are very friendly towards everybody around.
They don’t take up much space at all and don’t need a lot of exercise, so you’re good on that front; however, their looks need attention and extra maintenance, and that involves daily brushing of their luxurious hair.
15. Pekingese
Why it’s suitable: A small breed that are fairly inactive and love to just hang around, Pekingese are perfect for those living in smaller places.
They feel perfect indoors, don’t need much exercise whatsoever, but at the same time love going for a walk or staying outside if an opportunity presents itself.
16. Miniature Schnauzer
Why it’s suitable: One of the cutest dog breeds alive, Miniature Schnauzer are considered to be one of the best apartment dogs you can find.
They are small and adapt quickly to all kinds of new places. They get along okay with new faces, however, when it comes to kids, it’s advisable that they are introduced to each other when the Schnauzer is under 1 year old.
17. Parson Russell Terrier
Why it’s suitable: With the weight around 15 pounds, Parson Russell Terrier are small but quite active, and are still a good choice as a little apartment companion.
They are friendly towards most people, are moderately loud (they are sometimes too alert) and do require occasional exercise outdoors.
Having said that, don’t be discouraged by that, because these Terriers have absolutely no problem living in the closed up spaces.
18. Japanese Chin
Why it’s suitable: Japanese Chin, also known as Japanese Spaniel, is our Asian toy breed friend.
Weighting at about 7 pounds, they take up very little space and are extremely attached to their owners and owners’ family, but are very suspicious of strangers, so your neighbors might not feel welcomed by the dog.
Japanese Chins don’t need a huge amount of exercise, but they love to go for a walk often, so you must consider this need of theirs.
19. Brussels Griffon
Why it’s suitable: An unfairly less popular Brussels Griffon, also known as Griffon Bruxellois in its original name, is a toy breed from Belgium.
The small dog is another good option as a best apartment dog; and even though they do like being outdoors, they know how to keep themselves entertained for hours on end, which means they won’t bother you too much when you’re busy.
It’s a low-maintenance breed, although you must take them out for longer walks almost daily, but just grab your dog backpack carrier and you’re all set for a nice walk (something you yourself might need, too).
20. Tibetan Spaniel
Why it’s suitable: Tibetan Spaniels, nicknamed as Tibbies, are small dogs that weight around 12 pounds.
They require a moderate amount of exercise, but at the same time they love to spend time curled up right next to you while you’re watching your favorite series in the evening.
These Spaniels are great apartment companions, and when you don’t have time to play with them, they know how to keep themselves busy playing with toys.
They bark on occasion but are not considered to be a loud dog, and are always alert, which means you’ll definitely know if someone sneaks into your apartment while you’re sleeping.
21. Miniature Poodle
Why it’s suitable: Last but definitely not least on the best apartment dogs list is of course the famous Miniature Poodle.
A very famous dog breed, Poodles are also considered to be a great apartment breed. They are smart and always stylish, and come in different varieties, from small to medium (compared to their bigger brothers, Standard Poodles).
They don’t need much exercise, love staying at home and bonding with their owner. The obvious requirement for this breed is of course keeping their curly hairs trimmed and taken care of.
Final Words
There you have it, my fellow dog enthusiasts! We’ve just debunked the myth that apartment living and dog ownership don’t mix. In fact, there are plenty of adorable and suitable pups that will thrive in the cozy confines of your apartment. It’s not about the size of the dog, but rather their energy levels and exercise needs that determine their suitability for apartment living. Additionally, create fun photo collages of your furry friend’s adventures by using Adobe Express, and add a delightful touch to your apartment décor!
Now, imagine coming home to wagging tails, endless cuddles, and the purest form of unconditional love. These adorable apartment dogs will bring so much joy and companionship into your life, you won’t be able to resist falling head over paws for them.
So, whether you dream of having a tiny Maltese, a majestic Great Dane, or any of the other fabulous breeds on our list, know that your apartment can become a haven for the perfect furry companion. Remember, it’s not just about finding the right fit for your living space; it’s about creating a loving and happy home for your new best friend.
