Small spaces don’t restrict you from having a dog. Sure, you’d probably need an area wide enough for Fido to explore if you were to acquire a huge dog like a husky or a shepherd. Fortunately, there are lots of dogs that would be comfortable in apartment, which is great news for dog lovers everywhere.
Adopting a dog needs some planning if you live in an apartment. Some dog breeds are not suitable for apartment living. How successfully a particular dog adapts to living in an apartment depends on a combination of physical and behavioral aspects. However, unique characteristics and canine personalities might also vary. Living near to your neighbors, as well as making new furry friends requires tons of socialization.
16 Best Apartment Dogs for You
Check out the list below if you’re looking for one of the best dogs for apartment living and want to make sure your dog will be content and healthy in your house.
Pug
The Pug is a little, sociable dog with a cute, wrinkled face. Pug. The Pug, a very popular and adorable pet dog, is a breed well-known for its love of food and naps as well as for not knowing any violence because it was not bred into its genetic structure.
Pugs rarely bark unless they are very frightened or extremely hungry; instead, their fun barking is typically replaced with labored breathing. Due to their unique and adorable appearance as well as their wonderful personalities, pugs are one of the most popular apartment dogs in America.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
For a tiny cutie, the name “Cavalier King Charles Spaniel” is a big load. The reason why loving admirers refer to them as “Cavs”? They are very amiable canines that adapt well to environments and conditions indoors. They are renowned for replicating the mood of their pet parent. So the Cav adjusts to your needs whether you’re a homebody or constantly on the go.
They also don’t require big dog beds or crates that take up a lot of room because they are little dog breeds. Since they are so attached to their humans and are happiest when they are by your side, they won’t even utilize them much. These low-maintenance dogs would also make wonderful buddies in an apartment.
Golden Retriever
One of the preferences of apartment dwellers is these cute, amiable pets. These dogs need frequent grooming because of their luxurious double coats, which are quite high maintenance. The best course of action is to brush the dog’s hair every day to avoid such hassles because the dog’s shedding might make a mess.
Golden retrievers are smart dogs that are simple to train. Due to their high amounts of energy, they need both indoor and outdoor activity. This elegant-looking canine breed is perfect for apartment living. They get along with the family so well and are playful enough to keep you occupied all day. The nicest thing about owning a Golden Retriever is that the breed doesn’t bark excessively, so there won’t be any objections from the neighbors.
Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is without a doubt the ideal apartment dog for fitting into even the smallest urban studio when it comes to size! They almost never need any exercise that can’t be provided for right there on your couch because of how small they are. It’s difficult to beat these little dogs for living in a small apartment because they can be barky if they aren’t trained to stop alert barking.
Shih Tzu
Which dog is better suited to apartment living than one that is a “toy breed”? Shih Tzus require a lot of attention because of their long, flowing coats, but their loving personalities and mellow dispositions make up for it. Shih Tzus are generally happy in their own domain, and they adore cuddling with their favorite people, despite their propensity to get scared by strangers.
Beagle
Beagles are the ideal dogs for apartment since they require very little upkeep (in fact, baths too often can dry their skin). They enjoy social interactions, so they are content to spend most of their time at home but are also open to outings to the park. You should be informed that because of their distinctive bay, they require the appropriate training to prevent noise complaints in your apartment complex.
Bichon Frise
Due to their size and friendliness, the bichon frise is another breed that makes the greatest apartment dogs. This breed, which weighs only 12 to 18 lbs and is regarded as one of the most friendly, is excellent for compact houses with kids. Additionally, they get along well with other dogs and pets and don’t need a lot of room to be pleased.
They often make excellent apartment dogs because they don’t require a lot of exercise. They should, of course, still go for daily walks like any other dog. Bichons are a fantastic breed for tiny areas because they are relatively easy to train and don’t shed as often as other dogs.
Poodle
Poodles, no regardless of their size, do excellent living in an apartment. Most members of this breed are compatible with kids, and they do have a longer lifespan of 10 to 18 years. Poodles are hypoallergenic, therefore persons with specific allergies might be able to be around them. Poodles should be socialized and trained as pups because they can easily adopt negative habits. Additionally, they require routine grooming to prevent matting and knot-filled fur.
Great Dane
Although Great Danes are among the largest dog breeds in the world, these calm giants are known for their peaceful nature, so they won’t be noisy or tip things over. They may occupy the majority of the couch, but they won’t grumble if you leave your towels on the floor or your dishes in the sink. They also don’t require a lot of grooming or activity. Because of their easygoing nature and good nature, Great Danes are the most suitable large dogs for apartment living.
Rhodesian Ridgeback
The haughty Rhodesian Ridgeback has an expressive personality and a protective gaze. They were bred in South Africa primarily to defend cattle and farms from lions and other huge predators. Originally from Rhodesia, they are considered one of the best guard dogs.
These dogs are recognized for their loyalty to their owners since they still carry the Rhodesia Ridgeback gene. You’ll frequently notice your pet putting himself in front of his dear ones in the face of predators before making a noise. This is one of the quietest canine breeds out today that communicates through actions rather than talking, unless the situation is extremely dire.
Dachshund
The Dachshund is built for burrowing thanks to its long body, small legs, and large nose. Under the blanket, they’ll make a tunnel and nestle up to you. While you wait for the maintenance worker to fix the heat, that is helpful. Daily training is required to stop them from barking because they have a tendency to be “chatty” when they hear or see the neighbors. They have their attention on you because they are one of the most devoted dog breeds and will always be by your side.
Dachshunds can live comfortably in a flat and are the ideal size for apartment dogs. However, since there isn’t a garden, you need to be certain they get enough activity, have bathroom breaks, and don’t bother your neighbors by barking excessively.
Border Terrier
Border terriers are cheerful, active, small dogs that weigh between 12 and 15 pounds and have a wire coat that is simple to care for. They get along well with both city and country life thanks to their easy-going attitude, and their diminutive stature makes them excellent traveling companions (think dog carrier bags in the subway).
Border Terriers are active dogs who require exercise regularly to stay happy and healthy. A longer daily walk or a run in the dog park will maintain their happiness at home. Border Terriers, which were bred as hunting dogs, have a strong urge to chase squirrels and other small creatures. Because of this, it’s a good idea to always walk these beautiful dogs on a leash.
Bulldog
Bulldogs are kind and affectionate intimately, with activity levels that are best characterized as relaxed. The Bulldog is the perfect dog breed for apartments. He is perfectly content taking a 10-minute stroll in the cool morning or evening. His idea of physical activity is watching Netflix with you or monitoring as you cook. He must reside in an air-conditioned space because he is susceptible to heatstroke. He might also experience health issues that cost a lot of money to fix.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Pembroke Welsh Corgis are a brilliant exception to the rule that most herding dog breeds are too active for apartment and city life. Stocky, athletic, and sturdy dogs, Pembroke Welsh Corgis normally weigh between 27 and 30 pounds. They are affectionate, smart, and simple to teach. Corgis make great pets for families and people who live with roommates because of their outgoing nature and drive to learn.
Despite being bred for herding and the great outdoors, Pembroke Welsh Corgis quickly adapt to urban settings and cramped apartments. Corgis need daily exercise, playing, and stimulation because they are intelligent tiny herding dogs. Your corgi will be pleased cuddling up against you or your friends at home after a successful visit to the dog park or city park.
Pomeranian
These fluffy balls need to be brushed and groomed, but it’s worth it! If you’re seeking for a breed that can survive on its own and is independent, Pomeranians are excellent. Despite their small stature and high level of activity, these canines thrive in confined spaces. Additionally, because they enjoy communicating, expect barking and other noises, but effective housetraining can eliminate that. Pomeranians are also renowned for being extremely intelligent and adept at learning new tricks and commands.
Mastiff
Mastiffs might not be the first breeds to come to mind when thinking about dogs that are good for apartment, but you might be pleasantly surprised by these large dogs. Even though he is a large breed, the adult Mastiff can make a good companion for living in an apartment or condo as long as you can give him a daily walk and help him get over the boisterous, destructive puppyhood.
If you live in a multi-story building, you should have easy access to an elevator so you can easily take your dog up and down. He won’t be easy to carry. Another caution: Mastiffs drool, so keep some cleaning supplies on hand to keep your walls tidy.
I hope this has helped illustrate the best dogs for apartment living as there are hundreds of different breeds that live with us.