Best Dog Breeds for Apartment Living
Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you have to give up on your dream of having a dog. Many breeds adapt wonderfully to small spaces and enjoy indoor life as long as they get enough mental stimulation and daily walks. In this guide, we’ll cover the best dog breeds for apartment living and explain what makes them a great fit for compact homes.
Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or a seasoned pet parent looking for a calmer companion, here’s your go-to list of apartment-friendly pups!
Quick List: 15 Best Dog Breeds for Apartment Living
- French Bulldog – Quiet and low-energy
- Pug – Affectionate and easygoing
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – Small and adaptable
- Bulldog – Calm and couch-loving
- Chihuahua – Compact and loyal
- Shih Tzu – Great lap dog
- Yorkshire Terrier – Small with big personality
- Havanese – Friendly and hypoallergenic
- Dachshund – Small yet bold
- Maltese – Elegant and low-shedding
- Boston Terrier – Intelligent and sociable
- Bichon Frise – Playful and good for allergy sufferers
- Chinese Crested – Unique and low maintenance
- Miniature Schnauzer – Loyal and obedient
- Italian Greyhound – Quiet and clean
Top 15 Apartment-Friendly Dog Breeds with Details
French Bulldog: With their compact size, minimal barking, and love for napping, Frenchies are tailor-made for apartments. They don’t require much exercise, but daily walks are essential to keep them healthy.
Pug: Pugs are affectionate companions who enjoy lounging as much as they enjoy playtime. They don’t need much space to thrive and do well with routines.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: This breed is known for being adaptable and friendly. Their calm demeanor and smaller size make them great for apartment life, especially in a multi-person household.
Bulldog: Bulldogs are low-energy and friendly. They enjoy lounging indoors and are happy with short walks. They tolerate being alone for reasonable periods, ideal for busy owners.
Chihuahua: One of the smallest breeds, Chihuahuas love indoor life. They bond closely with their humans and enjoy cozy spaces. Proper training helps avoid excessive barking.
Shih Tzu: These royal lap dogs thrive indoors and are content with short walks and affection. Their small size and calm personality are perfect for limited spaces.
Yorkshire Terrier: Though energetic, Yorkies are small and adaptable. They love attention and indoor play. Early socialization and grooming are key.
Havanese: These dogs are people-oriented, hypoallergenic, and gentle. They rarely bark excessively and are eager to please, which makes them great apartment pets.
Dachshund: With their short legs and curious personality, Dachshunds are great for small homes. They do need moderate activity but enjoy cozy spots and companionship.
Maltese: Maltese dogs are gentle and adaptable. They don’t shed much and do well in indoor environments. Grooming is important to maintain their coat.
Boston Terrier: These dogs are friendly and intelligent. Their compact build and gentle behavior make them a top choice for apartments and families alike.
Bichon Frise: Bichons are playful and hypoallergenic, which is a plus for indoor spaces. They enjoy companionship and play but don’t need a backyard.
Chinese Crested: Unique in appearance and low-shedding, Chinese Cresteds are low-maintenance and ideal for owners looking for something different but compact.
Miniature Schnauzer: This breed is known for being smart and obedient. They do well with regular walks and are quick learners, making indoor training easier.
Italian Greyhound: Elegant and slender, they enjoy cuddling and short bursts of activity. They are quiet, clean, and thrive in calm indoor environments.
Looking for a low-shedding option? Read our guide on best family dogs that don’t shed. Want to know if you’re ready for dog ownership? Check our post on best dog breeds for first-time owners.
Final Thoughts
The best dog breeds for apartment living are often those that are smaller, quieter, and content with short walks and indoor play. But no matter the breed, consistent attention, love, and training are essential. Choose the breed that matches your energy and lifestyle, and your pup will thrive—even in a one-bedroom apartment.
FAQ
Do big dogs ever do well in apartments?
Yes! While this list focuses on small breeds, some larger dogs like Greyhounds and Great Danes are known to be apartment-friendly due to their calm nature.
Is barking a problem in apartments?
It can be. Choose breeds that are quieter and train consistently to minimize unwanted barking.
How much exercise do apartment dogs need?
Even small breeds need daily walks. Try to give your dog 30–60 minutes of movement daily.
