Living in an apartment doesn’t mean that you can’t adopt a dog. Of course, some dog breeds need lots of room to roam, but there are lots of medium, small and even large breeds that can happily live in your apartment, bringing joy and happiness to your life.
In this article, we’ll list the best apartment dogs that won’t mind living in a small space. You’ll learn everything about their behavior and how to make them more comfortable, so you can have fun together.
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
This sweet-tempered playful dog is an excellent choice if you live in an apartment. It likes to play and appreciate daily walks, but won’t mind snuggling on the couch while you’re watching Netflix.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel appreciates companionship and can get along with other pets. It doesn’t like to be left alone, so it’s an great choice for a household with children or stay-at-home parents. The silky coat requires weekly brushing to get rid of knots and tangles.
What Makes the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Suitable for Apartment Living
- Easy-going.
- Loves human companionship.
- Peaceful and polite with everyone.
2. Bichon Frise
If you’ve never had a dog before, the Bichon Frise might be the right dog. It adapts well to apartment life and gets along well with kids. Moreover, it’s quite easy to train.
Most dogs are white, although some of them can be pale yellow. It’s one of the recommended apartment dogs for people with allergies as they don’t shed as much as other breeds.
The Bichon Frise is cheerful and playful, but you shouldn’t leave it alone because it suffers from separation anxiety. It needs daily walks and can be taught tricks. Grooming is a must, so you should be ready to prepare for a professional dog groomer.
What Makes the Bichon Frise Suitable for Apartment Living
- Cheerful dog that loves to be the center of attention.
- Good at tricks.
- Great with kids.
- The shed hair is caught up in the undercoat.
3. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog has a unique character with its bat-like ears. Although this is a small dog, it has a strong muscular body. It likes to play but doesn’t mind spending long days relaxing on the sofa as you work or study nearby.
First-time dog owners can become successful with French Bulldogs, because they’re easy to train, as long as you make everything seem like a fun game. The French Bulldog won’t bark without reason, so it can be a watchdog. If you live in hot weather, this dog might not be for you, as it doesn’t tolerate heat very well.
What Makes the French Bulldog Suitable for Apartment Living
- Doesn’t need lots of exercises.
- Doesn’t bark frequently.
- Easy to groom as an average shedder.
4. Havanese
The Havanese dog is an affectionate dog that loves its owner, other people, other dogs, and even cats. It’s an excellent choice for a busy household with several people and pets because it doesn’t like to be left alone. It can be a unique therapy and assistant dog.
It has a beautiful silky coat that requires regular brushing. It likes regular exercise because it has a lot of energy.
If you live somewhere with noise restrictions, this dog might not be the right one for you, as it can bark frequently. You need to wipe the hair around the eye daily to protect the dog from tear stains.
What Makes the Havanese Dog Suitable for Apartment Living
- Loving dog.
- Gets along well with other people and pets.
- Intelligent dog that doesn’t mind approaching people.
5. Greyhound
The Greyhound originated in Egypt and is probably one of the most ancient breeds. Mostly known as a companion to royals, the Greyhound isn’t an aggressive dog but will alert you that there’s a stranger near your home.
This dog will be a good companion for your daily jogs or runs, but it equally enjoys sleeping on the couch when you’re inside the house. It doesn’t tolerate the cold weather very well, so you need to give it a coat or a sweater when the temperature drops.
It gets bored quickly and should be kept on a leash during walks because it might get lost. It has a short coat but requires daily brushing.
What Makes the Greyhound Suitable for Apartment Living
- Intelligent and independent dog.
- Can handle toddlers and older children.
- They enjoy sleeping with their owner.
6. Pug
It’s hard not to fall in love with a Pug and its funny face. Pugs are playful dogs that appreciate good games; however, they have strong wills, and training might be a bit challenging. They’re loyal dogs with lots of affection and love towards their owners.
This is a great choice for older apartment dwellers. It has a short and smooth coat, but sheds a lot, especially in the summer.
A Pug is usually inactive when it lives in an apartment. You should pay attention to its health because it’s prone to developing Pug Dog Encephalitis, a brain condition unique to Pugs.
What Makes the Pug Suitable for Apartment Living
- Playful dog.
- Doesn’t like excessive exercise.
- Good watchdogs but won’t bark without reason.
7. Bulldog
The Bulldog descends from fighting dogs that took part in bloody competitions. However, today’s Bulldogs are affectionate and kind, so they can become low-maintenance apartment dwellers.
Bulldogs can get along well with children, but they prefer to relax on the couch next to you. It’s essential to motivate your dog because it might not be too enthusiastic about daily walks. You need to wipe and dry the inside of the wrinkles to protect the skin from infections.
What Makes the Bulldog Suitable for Apartment Living
- Loving dog that doesn’t require a lot of exercise.
- Social and sweet.
- An excellent watchdog.
8. Chinese Crested
This dog is a loving companion but might be a bit aggressive towards strangers unless it’s been appropriately socialized. You need to be careful if you’re leaving the Chinese Crested with younger children. This dog can get hurt easily, so you must teach them to be gentle with it.
You should keep it on a leash because it’s likely to escape. It barks a lot, so you need to think about that if you’re looking for a quieter dog.
The Chinese Crested can tolerate high temperatures but doesn’t do well in extremely cold temperatures. The hair needs to be shaved regularly to keep the skin healthy.
What Makes The Chinese Crested Suitable for Apartment Living
- Wonderful family dogs.
- Relatively clean.
- Loving dog that likes to kiss.
9. Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier is an intelligent dog with an affectionate nature, so it’s an excellent companion for apartment dwellers. It’s rather smart and can be quite stubborn, especially when trained for the first time.
It’s extremely kid and dog-friendly, so it’s suitable for a busy household with multiple dogs and children. The Boston Terrier is rather easy to groom, and sheds less than other apartment dog breeds. You need to pay attention to the eyes and address any signs of irritation.
What Makes The Boston Terrier Suitable for Apartment Living
- Easy to groom.
- Loving and intelligent dog.
- Kid and dog-friendly.
10. Maltese
The Maltese is an easy-going, affectionate, and playful dog. Its gentle nature makes it an excellent choice for novice owners.
This dog breed is known for its elegant silky coat, it doesn’t have an undercoat, and as a result, it sheds very little. Some people consider it to be hypoallergenic.
Although this is one of the smallest toy breeds, it makes an excellent watchdog. However, it suffers from separation anxiety and can become intolerant of other people or other dogs, especially if it has been pampered by its owner.
What Makes The Maltese Suitable for Apartment Living
- Small size
- Intelligent and easy to train.
- People-oriented sweet character.
- Sheds little, so it’s suitable for people with allergies.
11. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a cheerful dog with an intelligent, yet independent personality. The puppies are rather challenging to housebreak, but consistency pays off.
This little dog is an excellent companion for adults and children. However, supervision is recommended to protect it from rough play. It’s an excellent choice for a single person, or a retired couple because it’s lively and active.
It likes to play and will bark at newcomers. Beware of excessive heat, and don’t ignore daily brushing and combing to keep the coat in excellent condition.
What Makes The Shih Tzu Suitable for Apartment Living
- The dog can adapt to any space.
- Friendly dog with a dynamic personality.
- Not overly active.
12. Great Dane
If you live on your own, the Great Dane will make sure that you’re safe. It can live in a big apartment with plenty of room to move around because its tail can accidentally knock over stuff.
Despite its size, the Great Dane is rather affectionate and sweet. It’s highly people-oriented and likes to please its owner.
It likes to play with children, doesn’t shed much. However, you should prepare a coat if you would like to take it for a walk in the cold weather.
What Makes the Great Dane Suitable for Apartment Living
- Likes to spend time with its owner.
- Can be an excellent jogging companion once the bones have fully developed.
- People-oriented, and great with kids.
13. Yorkshire Terrier
This dog is extremely confident and intelligent. It’s a lovely companion dog, but will often bark at strangers and other dogs. The Yorkie would get along with other dogs and cats if they were raised together.
Some play in the living room will be enough to keep this dog happy. It doesn’t like cold or damp weather and can be a picky eater. It sheds little, but still needs lots of grooming.
What Makes The Yorkie Suitable for Apartment Living
- A little dog with a big personality.
- It likes to cuddle and spend time at home.
- It has a single coat and doesn’t shed much.
14. Poodle
This active and alert dog is quite easy to train. Known for its history as a companion to royalty and rich people, the Poodle is loyal, intelligent, and mischievous. It loves to spend time with the family and can learn good habits fast.
If you suffer from allergies, you can consider getting a Poodle because it doesn’t shed. However, it’s a high-maintenance dog, and professional grooming is needed.
What Makes the Poodle Suitable for Apartment Living
- Loves to spend time with the family.
- Fast-learner.
- Doesn’t shed.
15. Basenji
The Basenji is an intelligent dog that will do anything to get your attention. It might not follow all the orders but will make an excellent companion. This dog is an excellent playmate for your active child.
If you’re worried about excessive barking, you should consider getting a Basenji. It sheds little, and shouldn’t be trusted with other smaller pets like cats and squirrels.
What Makes The Basenji Suitable for Apartment Living
- Doesn’t shed or bark much.
- Likes to spend time with active children.
- The dog keeps itself very clean.
16. Dachshund
Thanks to its cute appearance and lively personality, the Dachshund is a delightful addition to any family. It likes to be close to its owner and has always been a favorite of cartoonists and toymakers.
This dog likes to bark, and the bark sounds like it’s coming for a larger dog. You should always support your dog’s back while holding it and prevent it from jumping off high objects, as the dog is prone to slipped disks that can lead to paralysis. It doesn’t shed much, but regular brushing is needed.
What Makes the Dachshund Suitable for Apartment Living
- Likes to live indoors.
- This dog likes to cuddle and stay close to its owner.
- Low-maintenance dog.
17. Pomeranian
The little size of the Pomeranian says nothing about its larger than life personality. It’s an extrovert friendly dog that likes to play around. It loves spending time with the family and is extremely curious about the world.
If you’re looking for a watchdog, the Pomeranian might be the right one for you. However, sometimes it doesn’t know when it should stop barking, and might mistake itself for a larger dog.
It’s recommended for older people because it’s not overly dependent. It sheds moderately, and the coat needs to be brushed at least twice per week.
What Makes the Pomeranian Suitable for Apartment Living
- An excellent dog for busy or older people.
- Curious dog that doesn’t mind meeting new people.
- Can get along with other animals.
18. Brussels Griffon
Most people believe that the Brussels Griffon has human-like expressions. This affectionate small dog usually bonds with one member of the family and gets along with other people and pets.
The Brussels Griffon is the right dog for someone who needs a close companion, rather an independent dog. It’s an active dog that needs daily walks to stay in shape. Hand stripping is recommended to remove the loose hair and allow the coat to grow beautifully.
What Makes the Brussels Griffon Suitable for Apartment Living
- Sticks to one person and showers them with love.
- Gets along with other pets.
- Can be a good watchdog.
19. Chihuahua
By many people it’s considered the best apartment dog there is.
When you get a Chihuahua, you get a friend for life. This little dog will follow you everywhere, even when you’re outside running errands. Provide it with a sweater in cold weather because it shivers when it’s cold or scared.
This little dog competes in obedience and agility trials, as successfully as larger dogs. It’s not suitable for homes with little children as they’re prone to injuries. It sheds moderately, and regular brushing of the coat keeps the shedding under control.
What Makes the Chihuahua Suitable for Apartment Living
- Long-lived dog that sticks to the owner.
- Can be a good watchdog.
- Doesn’t have major health issues.
20. Basset Hound
The sweet-tempered Basset Hound is known as the Hush Puppy dog. Being an exceptional family companion, this dog loves to sit on your lap and can be a little lazy.
Regular exercise is a must because the Basset Hound can gain weight easily. It drools more than other dogs and sheds all year long. It rarely needs baths because the coat repels water and dirt.
What Makes the Basset Hound Suitable for Apartment Living
- Gets along with kids and other animals.
- Very loyal to its owner.
- Generally healthy.
21. Coton de Tulear
The Coton de Tulear is quite easy to train and likes to cuddle. It follows its human and doesn’t mind spending the day next to you while you’re working or studying.
It learns new tricks and adapts fast. This small dog likes to go on walks or regular trips to the dog park but doesn’t need excessive exercise. It doesn’t shed much, so it can be a good dog for people with allergies.
What Makes The Coton de Tulear Suitable for Apartment Living
- Small size
- Doesn’t need a lot of exercises.
- The coat is easy to care for.
- Likes to play with its person.
22. Japanese Chin
This loyal small dog has been prized as a companion dog for more than a thousand years. It’s an excellent choice for a small apartment because it likes to stay close to its owner.
The amazing coat of the Japanese Chin doesn’t need much grooming, as it’s a wash-and-go dog. It’s intelligent and well-mannered and doesn’t need a lot of exercises.
What Makes the Japanese Chin Suitable for Apartment Living
- An excellent companion for people who can’t take long walks.
- Will shape its personality to match the needs of its owner.
- You can easily correct your dog using a firm tone.
23. Mastiff
The courageous Mastiff prefers the comfort of home with its owner over spending time outdoors. If you live in a small apartment, the Mastiff might not be the right dog for you, due to its size. Nevertheless, its loving and good nature makes it the first choice for lots of people.
It barks, snores, and snorts loudly. You should use a rubber hound glove to brush the hair and control shedding.
What Makes the Mastiff Suitable for Apartment Living
- Loves staying in the house.
- Can try to solve a conflict between family members.
- Calm but protective of its human.
24. Lhasa Apso
This friendly dog is an excellent companion and will do its best to protect its human from danger. It’s intelligent, independent, but matures slowly, maintaining the puppyish attitude until it’s 3 years old.
If you’re considering a Lhasa Apso, you have to know that you will be doing a lot of grooming. It tends to bond better with adults and older children. Short walks and short play sessions are enough to keep this small dog happy in an apartment.
What Makes the Lhasa Apso Suitable for Apartment Living
- Playful dog that brings a lot of joy.
- Loves living indoors and not extremely active.
- Doesn’t experience separation anxiety, unlike other breeds.
25. Miniature Pinscher
The Miniature Pinscher is an energetic watchdog that enjoys the company of its family. It’s not suitable for novice owners unless you’re willing to invest the time and effort.
If you like going on regular runs, or want an active small dog, the Miniature Pinscher will be the right one for you. It likes to be the class clown to get your attention. It’s very easy to groom and will need a bath only if it gets into something dirty.
What Makes the Miniature Pinscher Suitable for Apartment Living
- Brings lots of laughs to the whole family.
- Can get well with other pets.
- Easy to care for.
26. American Hairless Terrier
If you suffer from allergies, the American Hairless Terrier might be the right dog for you. This dog loves to snuggle and enjoys living with a larger family with children and pets because it doesn’t like to live alone.
It enjoys playing with active kids, but you should keep an eye on the dog due to its small size. It will alert you in case of danger and requires very little grooming as it sheds a little dander.
What Makes the American Hairless Terrier Suitable for Apartment Living
- Loves being part of a bigger family.
- Doesn’t shed much, so it’s suitable for people with allergies.
- Can be happy with moderate exercise.
27. Pekingese
For years, Pekingese dogs were the official companions of the Chinese royals. This small dog is a little hard to train, and won’t respond to harsh training. But with a positive and encouraging attitude, the Pekingese becomes very affectionate of its family, although it stays wary of strangers.
It might take some time to get used to other dogs. It enjoys living in the house and will also love to take a walk with you. You need to brush the coat regularly to avoid tangling.
What Makes the Pekingese Suitable for Apartment Living
- A loving companion dog that can warn you in case of danger.
- Likes to spend time indoors.
- An intelligent dog with a good nature.
28. Shiba Inu
The charming Shiba Inu has a fearless personality and can get very possessive of its toys and other stuff. It should be kept on a leash when taken outside because its chasing nature usually takes over.
If you’re looking for a loyal companion, look no further. It will alert you in case of danger and can learn tricks quickly. Grooming is minimal, although the Shiba Inu sheds heavily twice a year.
What Makes the Shiba Inu Suitable for Apartment Living
- A loyal and confident dog with a mind of its own.
- Likes to take part in play and other activities with its human.
- A bath is needed every few months.
29. Affenpinscher
Happy and curious, the Affenpinscher never stops to entertain. It’s an excellent companion dog that gets easily excited. The Affenpinscher is eager to please and can learn tricks easily.
It naturally prefers the company of adults and older children and will do its best to protect them from harm. This small dog doesn’t shed much, but the coat should be stripped regularly.
What Makes the Affenpinscher Suitable for Apartment Living
- Enjoys short walks and doesn’t require a lot of exercises.
- Likes to make its humans happy.
- Loves the company of adults and older kids.
30. American Eskimo Dogs
The American Eskimo Dogs is an excellent watchdog and will warn you of any movement. It gets along well with other dogs, pets, and children.
This dog likes to move a lot but will prefer to cuddle as it grows older. It needs frequent brushing to prevent matting.
What Makes the American Eskimo Dogs Suitable for Apartment Living
- Prefers to cuddle, especially when it gets older.
- Likes to play with other pets and children.
- Willing to protect its human.
31. Keeshond
This obedient dog will quickly follow your rules. It’s wary of strangers but will respect anyone you bring to the house. The Keeshond loves to play with adults and children and doesn’t like to stay on its own.
It’s full of personality and can be a little mischievous. Having lived on boats for long, the Keeshond can do well in a small apartment with little to moderate exercise.
Despite its distinguished coat, maintenance can be easy. Heavy shedding is expected twice a year.
What Makes the Keeshond Suitable for Apartment Living
- Can live happily in a small apartment.
- Doesn’t require a lot of exercises.
- Gets along with adults and children
Final Thoughts
You can still lead a happy life with your dog, even if you’re living in a small apartment. Some dogs make great apartment pets since they enjoy snuggling on the couch and will prefer your company, rather than being left alone in the yard.
These 31 dog breeds are excellent choices for apartment dwellers. They’re great companion dogs, and some of them make good watchdogs, too. Pay attention to your dog’s grooming and training needs, and you will both enjoy long years of happiness together.
