Living the apartment life has lots of perks - it's financially friendly, it's safe, it's an instant community, you have access to lots of amenities, and maintenance is on the apartment company. But what if you also want a dog? Not all dogs do well in small spaces, but we've put together a list of some dog breeds that are suited for apartment living:
1. Bichon Frisé
The Bichon Frisé is a good apartment dog for a variety of reasons. They are small and need just moderate exercise. Because of their size, you can play with them almost anywhere, including in a small apartment. And while you’re away at work, they’ll likely snuggle up on the couch or look out the windows at the world.
2. Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are also a good choice for apartment living because of their size. They don’t usually grow taller than a foot and a half and tend to weigh between 10 and 25 pounds. They’re gentle and affectionate but can also be hyper, so they’ll need daily walks. If you’re the active type, this is the perfect pal to keep you company inside and outside your apartment.
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
These pretty pups make for great apartment dogs because of their size. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is quite small, usually growing just about a foot tall and weighing between 13 and 18 pounds. They love to cuddle and will snuggle up in your lap. Cavalier King Charles dogs can be quite needy and clingy - getting very attached to their owners - which makes small homes even better for them. Just keep in mind that these pups need to spend time outside, so they’re best suited for more active apartment tenants.
4. English Bulldog
Perhaps the most predictable breed on the list is the English Bulldog. While they’re quite large, weighing between 40 and 60 pounds, they make great apartment companions. They’re mellow, friendly, easy-going and not clingy (so they’ll do just fine on their own while you’re at work). They need moderate exercise but that can be satisfied with an evening walk. They’re social people-pleasers, so they’re also a great option if you want to take advantage of the community that come with an apartment.
5. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs do well in apartments because of how small and low-maintenance they are. They don’t bark a lot (although they do make a lot of other silly and adorable sounds) and don’t need much exercise. They don’t tolerate heat very well because of their short snouts, so they’re very content to relax or play inside. It’s no surprise that one of the most popular dog breeds can live in a variety of housing types, including apartments.
6. Greyhound
The most surprising breed on this list is the Greyhound. This is because they’re quite large (standing 27 to 30 inches tall and weighing between 60 to 90 pounds) and fast (with running speeds of 40 miles per hour). That being said, they’re also nicknamed the “40 mph couch potato” for a reason. When they’re not running around, Greyhounds can usually be found sleeping. They're very content to snuggle up in an apartment and enjoy a leisurely life. And while it may be a bit difficult to entertain them indoors (they’ll need more walks than other breeds on this list), they aren’t very noisy as they don’t tend to bark much.
7. Havanese
The Havanese breed makes for great apartment dogs. They’re small, love snuggling on the couch and are not very noisy (although they tend to bark at people walking through the door). They are the perfect partner if you’re looking to get more social - they are outgoing, confident, attention-seeking dogs who love meeting and interacting with people. So if one reason you’re in an apartment is for the community and amenities, the Havanese may be the breed for you. But they do need a little exercise, like an extended evening walk, and will appreciate a visit from a dog walker (or you) during lunch.
8. Maltese
The Maltese is one of the tinier breeds on this list, which makes them great for apartments. Often weighing no more than seven pounds, they fit in almost any apartment. And because they’re so tiny, they don’t cost as much as bigger dogs (which can mean more money for rent or whatever else you want). They do need a little regular exercise but will be satisfied with playing in the apartment or a short walk during their bathroom break.
9. Pug
Pugs are a great option for apartment living because they are low-energy and need less exercise than other dogs. Plus they don’t take up a lot of room, as they usually weigh no more than 20 pounds. As a flat-faced breed, Pugs don’t do so well in the heat and are very content laying around or snuggling up in a cool apartment. But they are prone to obesity, so they do need some exercise like short walks.
10. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu’s were bred to be companions and because of that, they're great for apartments. They’re small, love to cuddle or nap in your lap and don’t need much exercise (typically a short walk around the block is enough). Their flat noses and long hair means they don’t tolerate heat well, so it’s important not to over-exercise them. Overall, they're pretty perfect for apartment living.