Apartment living can be a great option for those who don’t have a lot of space or want to live in a more urban environment. However, for many people, living in an apartment also means not having a yard or large outdoor space for a dog to run and play in. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have a dog! There are many breeds that are well suited for apartment living, as long as they get enough exercise and attention. Here are 10 dog breeds that make great apartment companions.

Dogs For Apartments: 10 Best Dogs For An Apartment

Below are the 10 best dogs suitable for apartment living.

• Pug

• Bulldog

• Shih Tzu

• Bichon Frise

• Corgi

• Greyhound

• Boston Terrier

• Chihuahua

• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

• French Bulldog

Pug

Pugs are some of the best dogs for apartments because they have low exercise requirements and don’t need a lot of space. Pugs are small, compact dogs, so they don’t take up much room and can easily maneuver in tight spaces. They’re also fairly low-energy dogs, so they don’t need a lot of exercise and can easily get their energy out in an apartment. In addition, pugs are very affectionate and loving dogs that enjoy spending time with their humans, so they’ll be content living in an apartment as long as they get plenty of attention and love.

Bulldog

Bulldogs are a great choice for apartments because they’re low-maintenance and calm. Bulldogs don’t require a lot of exercise and are content with a daily walk or a quick game of fetch. They also don’t need a lot of space and are happy to lounge around the house. Bulldogs are known for being gentle and laid-back, so they’re ideal for apartment living. They’re also very affectionate and love to cuddle, making them the perfect companion for a cozy apartment. Plus, their short, smooth coats make them easy to groom and maintain.

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus make excellent apartment dogs because of their small size, calm temperament, and low exercise requirements. Shih Tzus is very adaptable and can get along well in any environment, even small apartments. They don’t require a lot of exercise and are content with short walks or a quick game of fetch. They’re also low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, as they have short, smooth coats that don’t require a lot of brushing. Shih Tzus are also very affectionate and enjoy spending time with their humans, making them ideal for apartment living.

Bichon Frise

Bichon Frises are another great choice for apartment living. They’re small dogs that don’t require a lot of exercise and are content to spend time indoors. Bichons are also known for being very friendly and affectionate, making them the perfect companions for an apartment. They’re also relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, as their coats are soft and don’t shed much. Bichons are also relatively quiet dogs and don’t bark a lot, making them ideal for apartment living. And, with their adorable, teddy bear-like appearance, Bichons are sure to be a hit with your neighbors.

Corgi

Corgi Frises, also known as the Corgipoo, is a cross between the Corgi and the Bichon Frise. This hybrid dog is a great choice for apartment living for many of the same reasons as the Bichon Frise. Corgipoos are small dogs that don’t require a lot of exercise and are content to spend time indoors. They’re also known for being very affectionate and loving, making them ideal for apartment living. Additionally, they have low-shedding coats that are relatively easy to groom. Corgipoos also tend to be very quiet dogs, making them well-suited for apartment living.

Greyhound

Despite their reputation as speedy sprinters, Greyhounds actually make great apartment dogs. These gentle giants are surprisingly laid-back and calm, and they don’t need a lot of exercise. Greyhounds are known for being couch potatoes and are content to spend most of their time lounging around the house. Greyhounds are also very affectionate dogs that love to be around their humans. They’re also relatively clean dogs and don’t require a lot of grooming. Plus, they’re quiet dogs that won’t disturb your neighbors. Overall, Greyhounds are surprisingly well-suited for apartment living.

Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers, or “Boston Terriers,” are another great option for apartment living. These little dogs are known for being very friendly and gentle, making them a great fit for families with kids. Boston Terriers are also relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming and exercise. They’re happy to lounge around the house most of the day, but they still enjoy short walks and playtime. Boston Terriers are also known for being quiet dogs, and they don’t bark excessively. They’re also easy to train, which is a plus for apartment living. Overall, Boston Terriers are a great choice for those looking for dogs for apartment living.

Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are excellent apartment dogs for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, they’re tiny! This makes them well-suited for living in small spaces. Chihuahuas are also very affectionate and loyal, making them great companions for apartment dwellers. They’re also low-maintenance when it comes to grooming and exercise. Chihuahuas are known for being quick learners, so they can be easily trained to live in an apartment. And, perhaps most importantly, Chihuahuas are quiet dogs that don’t tend to bark excessively. Overall, Chihuahuas make excellent apartment dogs.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is often considered one of the best apartment dogs due to its friendly, calm, and loving nature. They’re also relatively small, making them easy to accommodate in a small space. Additionally, Cavaliers are known for being adaptable and easy to train, so they’re able to quickly adjust to living in an apartment. Cavaliers are also known for being quite quiet and generally only bark when necessary, which is ideal for apartment living. And, perhaps most importantly, Cavaliers are extremely affectionate and love spending time with their owners, making them perfect companions for life in a small space.

French Bulldog

French Bulldogs are one of the best apartment dogs for a number of reasons. First, they are small in size, which makes them easy to manage in tight spaces. They are also low-maintenance when it comes to grooming and exercise, making them a great fit for busy apartment dwellers. In addition, French Bulldogs are known for being very affectionate and loving towards their owners, making them wonderful companions. Finally, French Bulldogs are typically quite calm and quiet, making them well-suited for city life. So, if you’re looking for a sweet, easygoing dog to share your apartment with, a French Bulldog may be the best choice.

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Small Dogs for Apartments

1. French Bulldog
2. Dachshund
3. Corgi
4. Bichon Frise
5. Pomeranian
6. Shih Tzu
7. Miniature Schnauzer
8. Havanese
9. Boston Terrier
10. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Medium-Sized Apartment Dogs

1. Cocker Spaniel
2. Shetland Sheepdog
3. French Bulldog
4. Beagle
5. Basset Hound
6. Bulldog
7. American Eskimo Dog
8. Lhasa Apso
9. Australian Cattle Dog
10. Basenji

Best Big Dogs for Apartments

1. Greyhounds: Despite their size, Greyhounds are known for being calm and quiet in the house and are well-suited for apartment living.
2. Bulldog: Bulldogs are low energy and do not require a lot of space to roam, making them ideal for apartment living.
3. Basset Hound: This breed is affectionate, easy-going, and adaptable, making them great companions for apartment dwellers.
4. Great Dane: Although they are well-known for their large size, Great Danes have a calm and gentle demeanor, making them suitable for apartment living.
5. Standard Poodle: Poodles may be known for their high grooming maintenance, but they are actually great apartment dogs due to their low energy levels and well-mannered personalities.
6. American Staffordshire Terrier: Affectionately referred to as “Amstaffs,” these strong and loyal dogs can adapt well to apartment living with proper exercise and training.
7. English Mastiff: Another large breed that can do well in apartments, Mastiffs are calm and docile dogs that love to lounge around.
8. Irish Setter: This energetic and intelligent breed can thrive in apartments as long as they receive plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
9. Bernese Mountain Dog: These gentle giants may require some space to stretch their legs, but they make great apartment dogs due to their calm and relaxed nature.
10. Whippet: With their sleek and athletic build, Whippets are surprisingly well-suited for apartment living. They are quiet, low-maintenance, and love nothing more than cuddling up with their owners.

Best Apartment Dogs for Full-Time Workers

1. French Bulldog
2. Bichon Frise
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
4. Greyhound
5. Pug
6. Boston Terrier
7. Shih Tzu
8. Maltese
9. Chihuahua

Worst Dogs for Apartments

1. Siberian Husky
2. Dalmatian
3. Mastiff
4. Beagle
5. Weimaraner
6. Border Collie
7. Australian Cattle Dog

How to Choose the Best Dogs for Apartments

Consider the Size and Energy Level of the Dog:

When choosing a dog for an apartment, it’s important to consider the size and energy level of the dog. Smaller breeds tend to be better suited for apartment living, as they require less space to move around and are easier to exercise indoors. Additionally, lower energy breeds, such as bulldogs, basset hounds, and pugs, may be better choices for apartments as they are content with moderate exercise and don’t have high activity levels that may disturb neighbors.

Look for Dogs with Good Apartment Etiquette:

Some breeds are more suited for apartment living due to their natural demeanor. For example, Greyhounds and Great Danes are known for being quiet and calm dogs, making them a good fit for apartments. On the other hand, breeds with high energy levels, such as Jack Russell Terriers or Huskies, may not be the best choice for an apartment as they may become restless and noisy if not given enough space and exercise.

Consider the Breed’s Grooming Needs:

When living in an apartment, it’s important to consider the breed’s grooming needs. Breeds with long or thick coats may require frequent grooming and shedding can be a problem in small living spaces. Shorter-haired breeds, such as Boston Terriers or Australian Cattle Dogs, may be better suited for apartments as they require less maintenance.

Check for Breed Restrictions:

Before bringing a new dog into your apartment, make sure to check with your landlord or building management for any breed restrictions. Some apartments may have breed restrictions due to size or potential noise levels, so it’s important to clarify this before making a decision.

Consider Adopting an Older Dog:

Puppies can be a lot of work and may not be the best choice for apartment living. Consider adopting an older dog that is already trained and accustomed to apartment living. Older dogs also tend to have lower energy levels and may be more content with a calm and quiet apartment lifestyle.

Evaluate Your Lifestyle and Commitment Level:

When choosing a dog for your apartment, it’s important to consider your lifestyle and commitment level. If you work long hours or travel frequently, a high-energy, high-maintenance dog may not be the best choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a companion to join you on daily walks and have time to dedicate to training and socialization, a higher-energy breed may be a good option.

10 Tips for Having a Happy Apartment Dog

1. Choose the Right Dog: Consider size, exercise needs, and personality when searching for a dog that’s suited for apartment living. You want a friendly, calm, and compatible pet that isn’t overly vocal or large, doesn’t mind being alone for a few hours a day, and loves to get a bit of exercise indoors. Also, think about the apartment restrictions that might impact the breed you choose.
2. “Cat Proof” your Apartment: Neatly tuck away electric wires, cables, and plugs to protect your dog from these potential hazards. Avoid placing items on low shelves or open cups of liquid on the floor, and carefully store all things that could injure your pet such as sewing needles and pins.
3. Create Dog Zones: Choose at least one spot in your apartment where your dog can have its own quiet time to rest or play. If you have a balcony, it can also serve as an outdoor play space. Consider setting up a small turf or sand pad for your dog’s comfort.
4. Manage Separation Anxiety: When you and your furry friend are ready to exercise or leave the apartment for work, create an environment where your dog feels comfortable and engaging. Using hypnotic background sound or leaving a window open with outdoor noise can help. You should also leave a couple of toys, games, and space for your dog to move about in safely.
5. Establish House Rules: Make clear boundaries and communicate the dos and don’ts to your dog. This should not change whether you live in a pet-friendly apartment building or not. Reinforce proper behavior by offering positive reinforcement as you would if you were staying with relatives. Give plenty of praise and positive regard for good behavior.
6. Make a Noise Plan: When looking for your apartment, think of the potential noise. If your neighbor’s kids play loudly across the hall, assume if your pet, runs around and plays in a mammoth pit, you might get a complaint. Working with your super to establish a noise plan and prioritizing when to use your pet’s quiet space or walk your dog before quiet hours are great ways to keep your pet happy.
7. Keep Your Apartment Dog Amused: Choose quality toys that will provide your dog with healthy challenges and a sense of curiosity while they’re alone. Stuffed puzzle toys are great for hiding treats within, and chew toys are great for stress relief. Take advantage of surrounding parks, areas, and dog clubs to avoid cabin fever and weight gain for your champion.
8. Set Up an Apartment Potty Zone: Apartments generally limit the room you have for potty breaks. To make it work, you need to establish an indoor potty zone for your dog. Line a tray with puppy training liners or newspapers and replace them at regular intervals. Establish set times for regular walks and bathroom breaks just as you would if you were house training. Over time, this will help your dog understand the pattern better.
9. Access to Pet-Friendly Outdoors: If you choose to live in a neighborhood with plenty of parks, this will help ensure you have access to dog parks. Motto parks welcome dogs, and there are plenty of dog-friendly places your pooch can tag along to for a day of adventure when you’re ready. You also establish a routine with smaller intervals for various tasks.
10. Skip the Stairs & Elevator: If sharing an apartment with multiple people who each have pets, it’s best to make a habit of taking the stairs rather than the elevator. Also, consider the possibility of avoiding coming face to face with other contemporary apartment dogs who aren’t exactly social.

SEE ALSO: Do Dogs Get Tired of Barking?

FAQs

Q. What is a great apartment dog?

A. A great apartment dog is one that is well-suited to living in a small space, such as an apartment or condo.

Q. What is the best dog for a single male apartment?

A. There are a few different breeds that are well-suited to single men living in apartments. First, the Boston Terrier is a great option. They are small, low-maintenance, and very affectionate, making them ideal for living in a small space. Second, the French Bulldog is another good option. Like the Boston Terrier, they are small and low-maintenance, but they are also relatively quiet and adaptable, making them easy to live with. Lastly, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a great choice for a single man in an apartment.

Q. What do dogs need in an apartment?

A. When living with a dog in an apartment, it’s important to make sure that their basic needs are met. Firstly, they will need a comfortable place to sleep, such as a dog bed. Secondly, they will need a place to go potty, such as a litter box or designated potty area. Thirdly, they will need plenty of toys and enrichment activities to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.

Q. What is the best dog to have in a small house?

A. The best dog to have in a small house is Pugs, they are small, low-maintenance dogs that are happy to lounge around the house all day.

Conclusion

Dogs can make wonderful companions for apartment dwellers, as long as their specific needs are taken into consideration. Smaller breeds and low-energy dogs are generally better suited for apartment living, but each dog has its own unique personality and needs. It’s important to do research and find a dog that fits well with your lifestyle and living situation before making a commitment. Remember to also consider factors such as breed restrictions, noise levels, and exercise requirements before making a decision. With proper attention and care, dogs and their owners can thrive in an apartment setting.