Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you have to give up on the idea of owning a dog! Many breeds are perfectly suited for small-space living, thanks to their adaptable nature, manageable size, and moderate exercise needs. It doesn’t matter if you’re in a studio or a larger apartment, here’s a curated list of the best apartment dogs to help you find your perfect companion.
Characteristics to Look for When Choosing the Best Dog for an Apartment
The best dogs for apartment living share a specific set of traits that make them well-suited for smaller spaces and urban environments:
- Size: Smaller breeds are often preferred for apartments, as they require less space to move around comfortably.
- Temperament: Calm, friendly, and adaptable dogs tend to thrive in apartments. Breeds that are less prone to excessive barking or hyperactivity are ideal for close quarters.
- Energy Level: Low to moderate energy levels are a key trait, as these dogs can be content with short daily walks and indoor playtime.
- Adaptability: Dogs that adjust easily to new environments, noises, and the absence of a backyard fit well into apartment life.
- Low Maintenance: Breeds with minimal grooming needs or those that shed less are often preferred, keeping small spaces tidy and manageable.
Dogs like French Bulldogs, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and Pugs show these characteristics, making them wonderful companions for apartment dwellers.
Best Apartment Dogs: Breeds That Thrive in Small Spaces
These are some of the best apartment dogs that thrive in small spaces to help you find the perfect furry friend for your cosy living space.
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
A regal and affectionate toy breed, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is known for its silky coat, expressive eyes, and friendly demeanor. These dogs make great companions for families and adapt well to various living environments.
Why They’re Great for Apartments: These affectionate and gentle dogs thrive in smaller spaces, making them ideal for apartment living. Their adaptable nature and moderate exercise needs fit perfectly with an indoor lifestyle.
Learn more about Cavalier King Charles Spaniels or Find a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy on Dogz Online.
2. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is a charming and compact breed with bat-like ears and a playful yet calm personality. Perfect for apartment living, they are low-energy, affectionate companions.
Why They’re Great for Apartments: Compact and calm, French Bulldogs are perfectly suited to life in small spaces. They enjoy lounging around, but also love short play sessions with their owners.
Learn more about French Bulldogs or Find a French Bulldog puppy on Dogz Online.
3. Chihuahua
Tiny but full of personality, Chihuahuas are loyal, alert, and surprisingly bold. Their small size makes them ideal for city dwellers, and they thrive as loving lap dogs.
Why They’re Great for Apartments: Tiny but big in personality, Chihuahuas are excellent companions for apartment dwellers. Their minimal exercise needs make them easy to care for indoors.
Find a Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) puppy or a Chihuahua (Long Coat) puppy on Dogz Online.
4. Pug
The Pug is a cheerful and sociable breed, known for its wrinkled face and curled tail. They enjoy lounging and playing, making them adaptable companions for families or singles alike.
Why They’re Great for Apartments: Pugs are charming, adaptable dogs that love relaxing. Their low activity level and love for companionship make them a favourite choice for apartment living.
Find a Pug puppy on Dogz Online.
5. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are gentle, friendly, and boast a luxurious, flowing coat. They are affectionate companions who thrive on attention and are well-suited for apartment living.
Why They’re Great for Apartments: These small, friendly dogs are content in small spaces and enjoy being close to their owners. Regular grooming keeps their coat manageable for indoor life.
Learn more about Shih Tzus or Find a Shih Tzu puppy on Dogz Online.
6. Maltese
With their stunning white coat and lively personality, Maltese dogs are elegant yet playful companions. They are affectionate, intelligent, and love being the center of attention.
Why They’re Great for Apartments: Maltese dogs are small, quiet, and well-suited to smaller spaces. Their gentle demeanour and low exercise requirements make them ideal companions for apartments.
Learn more about Maltese or Find a Maltese puppy on Dogz Online.
7. Dachshund
Dachshunds, or "sausage dogs," are playful and spirited, with long bodies and short legs. They come in various coat types and are devoted companions with a knack for adventure.
Why They’re Great for Apartments: These little hounds are playful yet easy to manage in small spaces. Dachshunds enjoy short walks and lots of affection, making them a great choice for apartment dwellers.
Types: Did you know there are 9 different types of dachshunds with different coat types? Long-Haired, Miniature Long Haired, Miniature Smooth Haired, Miniature Wire Haired, Rabbit Long Haired, Rabbit Smooth Haired, Rabbit Wire Haired, Smooth Haired, Wire Haired.
Find a Dachshund puppy on Dogz Online.
You can also explore other coat types directly on Dogz Online.
8. Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound is a sleek and graceful breed with a gentle and affectionate temperament. These dogs enjoy cuddling as much as they enjoy short bursts of play.
Why They’re Great for Apartments: Slim and graceful, Italian Greyhounds are low-maintenance in terms of space and exercise. They’re happy to curl up in a cosy spot after short bursts of activity.
Learn more about Italian Greyhounds or Find an Italian Greyhound puppy on Dogz Online.
9. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are cheerful, fluffy little dogs with a hypoallergenic coat and a friendly nature. They are highly sociable and excel in families that can give them plenty of love and attention.
Why They’re Great for Apartments: These fluffy, cheerful dogs adapt well to apartment life thanks to their small size and friendly nature. Regular grooming keeps them looking their best indoors.
Learn more about Bichon Frise or Find a Bichon Frise puppy on Dogz Online.
10. Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers, nicknamed the "American Gentleman," are small, sturdy dogs with tuxedo-like markings. They are intelligent, lively, and affectionate companions suitable for all ages.
Why They’re Great for Apartments: Boston Terriers are a top choice for urban living because of their compact size and easy-going nature. They thrive on companionship and short daily walks.
Learn more about Boston Terriers or Find a Boston Terrier puppy on Dogz Online.
11. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers are small, feisty, and affectionate dogs with silky coats. They are intelligent and enjoy being close to their owners.
Why They’re Great for Apartments: Yorkies are small in size and adapt well to apartment living. They require minimal outdoor exercise and thrive with indoor play and affection.
Learn more about Yorkshire Terriers or Find a Yorkshire Terrier puppy on Dogz Online.
12. Havanese
The Havanese is a playful and sociable breed with a silky coat and a cheerful personality. These dogs are excellent companions and love human interaction.
Why They’re Great for Apartments: Compact and friendly, Havanese dogs are perfect for apartments. They are low-shedding and happy with moderate exercise indoors or on short walks.
Learn more about Havanese or Find a Havanese puppy on Dogz Online.
13. Miniature Pinscher
Known for their sleek appearance and spirited personality, Miniature Pinschers are confident and energetic little dogs.
Why They’re Great for Apartments: Despite their lively nature, their small size and love for indoor play make them well-suited to apartment life.
Learn more about Miniature Pinschers or Find a Miniature Pinscher puppy on Dogz Online.
14. Pekingese
Pekingese dogs are loyal, regal, and known for their distinctive lion-like mane and calm demeanor.
Why They’re Great for Apartments: Their small size and low energy levels mean they are happy to lounge indoors, making them excellent apartment companions.
Learn more about Pekingese or Find a Pekingnese puppy on Dogz Online.
15. Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin is a charming and elegant breed known for its playful, cat-like behavior and loving nature.
Why They’re Great for Apartments: These small, low-energy dogs thrive in smaller spaces and are content with light daily exercise.
Learn more about Japanese Chin or Find a Japanese Chin puppy on Dogz Online.
16. Papillon
Papillons are lively, intelligent, and easily recognisable by their butterfly-like ears and fluffy coats.
Why They’re Great for Apartments: These small dogs are easy to train and adapt well to indoor living, needing only moderate exercise.
Learn more about Papillons or Find a Papillon puppy on Dogz Online.
17. Lhasa Apso
Lhasa Apsos are confident, protective dogs with a long, flowing coat. They are known for their calm and independent nature.
Why They’re Great for Apartments: These small dogs are content in indoor spaces and enjoy lounging around when not engaging in moderate play.
Learn more about Lhasa Apso or Find a Lhasa Apso on Dogz Online.
18. Pomeranian
Pomeranians are fluffy, lively dogs with a bold personality and a love for companionship.
Why They’re Great for Apartments: Their small size and adaptability make them perfect for apartments. They enjoy playtime but don’t require extensive exercise.
Learn more about Pomeranians or Find a Pomeranian puppy on Dogz Online.
Why These Breeds Stand Out for Small Spaces
These top apartment dogs perfectly combine their size, temperament, and adaptability, making them ideal companions for apartment living. Their ability to thrive in smaller spaces while maintaining a happy and healthy lifestyle sets them apart. From the playful and sociable nature of a Pug, the gentle elegance of a Greyhound, or the affectionate companionship of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, there’s a breed to suit every personality and lifestyle. These dogs are not only well-suited to indoor environments but also bring unique traits that cater to different living situations, ensuring a fulfilling bond with their owners.
Explore the full list of breeds suitable for apartment living on Dogz Online and find your perfect canine companion.
With the right breed and care, having a dog in an apartment can be a fulfilling and joyful experience!
Tips for Apartment Dog Owners
- Exercise: Even if your dog is a low-energy breed, regular walks are essential for their physical health and mental well-being. Short strolls or visits to a nearby park can keep them happy and prevent restlessness.
- Mental Stimulation: Engage your dog’s mind with interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and games like hide-and-seek. Mental activities are just as important as physical exercise, especially for intelligent breeds.
- Training: Establish good habits early by focusing on potty training and basic commands. Teaching your dog where to relieve themselves and how to behave in shared spaces helps create a peaceful living environment.
