Best Dog Breeds for Apartment Living
Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t have a dog. It just means choosing the right breed. One that thrives in smaller spaces, adapts well to city life, and doesn’t need acres of yard to be happy.
Some dogs are natural apartment companions: calm, friendly, moderately active, and not prone to excessive barking. Others may surprise you,yes, even larger breeds can be excellent apartment dogs if they’re low-energy and love lounging.
This guide highlights the best dog breeds for apartment living, why they fit small-space lifestyles, and what you can do to keep them happy indoors.
What Makes a Dog Good for Apartment Living?
When evaluating breeds for apartments, consider these qualities:
- Size: Smaller dogs fit easily, but size isn’t the only factor.
- Energy Level: Moderate to low-energy dogs do best.
- Noise Level: Barking can cause trouble with neighbors.
- Temperament: Friendly and adaptable breeds thrive in city life.
- Exercise Needs: Dogs that don’t require constant outdoor time adjust better.
Top Dog Breeds for Apartment Living
- French Bulldog – The City Darling
Frenchies are one of the most popular apartment dogs in the U.S.
- Small but sturdy (under 28 pounds)
- Minimal exercise needs—two short walks a day is enough
- Quiet, friendly, and adaptable
- Perfect couch companions
Downside: Sensitive to heat, so they need air conditioning in summer.
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – The Lap Dog Extraordinaire
Known for their affectionate personalities, Cavaliers are well-suited for smaller homes.
- Compact size (13–18 pounds)
- Gentle, social, and great with families
- Happy with indoor play and moderate walks
- Love curling up on laps for hours
Boston Terrier – The American Gentleman
With their tuxedo-like markings and big personalities, Boston Terriers are ideal apartment pups.
- Small size (12–25 pounds)
- Playful yet calm indoors
- Low-maintenance grooming
- Friendly with people and pets
- Greyhound – The Couch Potato Sprinter
Surprisingly, Greyhounds make excellent apartment dogs.
- Tall but slim (60–70 pounds)
- Known as “45-mph couch potatoes”
- Love lounging most of the day
- Short bursts of exercise are enough
Downside: They require a soft, comfortable place to nap due to their thin frames.
- Shih Tzu – The Regal Companion
Bred to be lap dogs, Shih Tzu’s are small, affectionate, and thrive indoors.
- Small (9–16 pounds)
- Adaptable to apartment life
- Low energy but enjoy short daily walks
- Loyal and affectionate
Grooming needs are higher, with regular brushing or professional grooming required.
- Chihuahua – The Pocket-Sized Pup
Chihuahuas may be tiny, but they have big personalities.
- Smallest breed (2–6 pounds)
- Minimal exercise requirements
- Easily entertained indoors
- Perfect for single owners or couples
Can be happy if not trained socialization is key.
- Maltese – The Sweet Indoor Pup
Maltese dogs are known for being calm, affectionate, and thriving in apartments.
- Small and lightweight (under 7 pounds)
- Don’t require tons of exercise
- Excellent lap companions
- Adaptable to city living
- Dachshund – The Apartment-Friendly Hunter
Despite their hunting background, Dachshunds adapt well indoors.
- Small and manageable (16–32 pounds)
- Playful and curious
- Good with short walks and indoor play
- Loyal and fun companions
Avoid too many stairs they’re prone to back issues
- Bichon Frise – The Hypoallergenic Buddy
Bichons are cheerful, fluffy companions perfect for small homes.
- Small size (12–18 pounds)
- Playful but not overly energetic
- Hypoallergenic coats great for allergy sufferers
- Adaptable and social
- Pug – The Charming Comedian
Pugs are clowns at heart and perfect apartment dogs.
- Medium-small (14–18 pounds)
- Low to moderate exercise needs
- Love being around people
- Quirky, affectionate personalities
Like Frenchies, they are prone to heat sensitivity.
Honorable Mentions
- Yorkshire Terrier: Small, adaptable, affectionate
- Havanese: Cuban lap dog, thrives indoors
- Bulldog: Calm, low-energy, perfect for lounging
- Italian Greyhound: Miniature version of Greyhounds elegant and apartment-ready
Tips for Raising a Dog in an Apartment
No matter the breed, apartment life comes with challenges. Here’s how to make it easier:
- Daily Walks: Even low-energy dogs need exercise.
- Indoor Playtime: Use toys, fetch, or tug-of-war to burn energy.
- Training: Teach quiet behavior to avoid noise complaints.
- Dog-Proofing: Remove chewable items and protect furniture.
- Create a Safe Space: Use a crate or dog bed as their personal retreat.
- Socialization: Take them to parks, dog-friendly cafes, or play dates.
Common Mistakes Apartment Dog Owners Make
- Choosing a High-Energy Breed: Border Collies or Huskies can struggle without lots of space.
- Skipping Mental Enrichment: Boredom Leads to Barking or Destruction.
- Overlooking Noise Training: Excessive barking can upset neighbors.
- Ignoring House Rules: Know Your Lease’s Pet Policies Before Adopting.
Final Thoughts
Apartment living doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the joy of having a dog. Breeds like the French Bulldog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Greyhound, and Shih Tzu are proof that the best companions don’t need acres of land to be happy.
With the right breed and proper care, your pup can thrive in city life, bringing love, laughter, and loyalty into your home no matter the size.
Ready to Connect?
Enjoyed learning about big dog breeds? Join the Pets Fun Zone community — a growing space for U.S. pet lovers to:
Share photos, stories, and experiences
Ask questions and get advice
Discover recs for food, training, vet care, and more
Join us today at Pets Fun Zone and be part of a caring community of passionate dog lovers!
Let’s welcome all the gentle giants together.
