Dog Breeds for Apartments: Which One Is Right for You?

Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t have a dog. The right breed makes all the difference. Some dogs thrive in small spaces, while others need room to roam. Whether you want a tiny companion or a calm, medium-sized pup, there’s a perfect match for your home. We’ll help you find the best dog breeds suited for apartments based on size, energy, and temperament.

Key Takeaways:

• Best Small Dog Breeds for Apartments: French Bulldog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Dachshund, Bichon Frise, Pug – all require minimal exercise.

• Best Small Dogs for High-Rises: Havanese, Italian Greyhound, Shih Tzu – easygoing and adaptable to elevators and shared spaces.

• Medium-Sized Apartment Dogs: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, French Bulldog, Basenji, Whippet, Bulldog – low-energy and adaptable.

• Large Apartment-Friendly Breeds: Great Dane, Greyhound, Mastiff – calm indoors with short walk needs.

• Hypoallergenic Apartment Dogs: Bichon Frise, Miniature Poodle, Maltese, Chinese Crested – low-shedding and allergy-friendly.

• Low-Maintenance Apartment Dogs: French Bulldog, Boston Terrier, Miniature Schnauzer – easy to train and groom.

• First-Time Owners: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, French Bulldog, Pug – easy to train and affectionate.

• Reducing Barking: Choose quiet breeds like Basenji, train with "quiet" commands, and use noise-masking techniques.

• Apartment Considerations: Check pet policies, exercise needs, barking habits, shedding, and living space setup before adopting.

The Best Small Dog Breeds for Apartment Living

The right small dog can make apartment life easier. Some breeds adapt well due to their quiet nature, low energy, or ease of training.

Characteristics of Small Apartment-Friendly Breeds

A great apartment dog is calm indoors, doesn’t bark excessively, and doesn’t require a yard. Size matters, but energy level and temperament are more important. Some small dogs are lively and need plenty of playtime, while others are happy to relax on the couch.

If you live in a high-rise, consider how well a breed handles stairs, elevators, and city noise. Dogs that adjust to different people and sounds will feel more comfortable in shared spaces. Breeds that shed less can also be ideal since they require less cleaning.

Top Small Dog Breeds with Minimal Exercise Requirements

• French Bulldog – Quiet, affectionate, and compact, with low exercise needs.

• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – Friendly and adaptable, enjoys short daily walks.

• Dachshund – Playful but doesn’t require excessive exercise, enjoying plenty of cuddle time.

• Bichon Frise – Small and hypoallergenic, content with indoor play and short walks.

• Pug – Easygoing and low-energy, preferring short bursts of activity.

These breeds adjust well to small spaces, needing only brief walks and some playful indoor time each day.

Small Dog Breeds That Thrive in High-Rise Buildings

Living in a tall building means frequent elevator rides and meeting neighbors often. Some small breeds adjust well:

• Havanese – Social and friendly, making them great for shared spaces.

• Italian Greyhound – Quiet and relaxed indoors but enjoys short sprints outside.

• Shih Tzu – Laid-back and comfortable being carried in crowded places.

These breeds are easy to manage when navigating stairs or riding in elevators. They remain calm in busy environments and enjoy being close to their owners.

Want more apartment-friendly dog suggestions? Check out our Puppy Dreams blog for expert advice and breed recommendations tailored to your living situation.

Medium-Sized Dog Breeds Suitable for Apartments

Many medium-sized dogs adjust well to apartments. The key is choosing a breed with the right temperament and energy level.

Best Medium-Sized Dogs for Limited Space

Several medium-sized breeds fit well in apartments. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is affectionate and low-energy, making it a great choice. French Bulldogs are another excellent option due to their calm demeanor and minimal barking. If you prefer a more independent breed, consider the Basenji, which is known for being quiet and easy to care for.

Despite their muscular build, Whippets are well-suited for smaller homes since they enjoy lounging most of the day. Bulldogs also fit well, as they have low energy needs and a laid-back personality.

Exercising Medium-Sized Apartment Dogs

Exercise needs vary by breed. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Bulldogs require short daily walks and some indoor play. Whippets and Basenjis need occasional runs or longer walks to stay happy. French Bulldogs need light exercise, but daily movement is important to prevent weight gain.

If an owner is away often, mental stimulation, like puzzle toys, can prevent boredom. Many medium-sized dogs thrive in apartments when they receive proper attention and stimulation.

Low-Maintenance Medium Breeds for City Living

For those looking for a low-maintenance companion, Bulldogs and French Bulldogs require minimal grooming and exercise. Whippets have short coats that rarely shed and are odor-free. Basenjis, known as the "barkless dog," groom themselves like cats, making them easy to care for.

Large Dog Breeds Suitable for Apartments

Sme large dog breeds can live comfortably in apartments. While many assume big dogs need big spaces, certain breeds are known for being calm and low-energy.

Large Breeds That Adapt Well to Small Spaces

Some large dogs require only short walks throughout the day. For example, Great Danes are gentle giants that enjoy lounging. Greyhounds, despite their speed, are relaxed and love resting. Mastiffs prefer a quiet, laid-back lifestyle.

Considerations for Owning a Large Dog in a Small Home

Living with a large dog in an apartment takes some planning. Check the building’s pet policy since some have weight restrictions. Activity level also matters—breeds like Labrador Retrievers require plenty of exercise. Dogs prone to joint issues may struggle with stairs without elevator access.

Big Dogs: Happy in Small Homes?

Yes, as long as their needs are met. Large dogs can thrive in apartments with regular exercise, mental engagement, and proper training. Teaching commands like "settle" can help them adjust to smaller spaces.

Find the largest dog breeds on the Puppy Dreams Blog.

Best Breeds for Allergy Sufferers in Apartments

If you have allergies but want a dog, a hypoallergenic breed might be the best choice.

Best Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds for Apartments

• Bichon Frise – Small, playful, and low-shedding.

• Miniature Poodle – Intelligent and affectionate with a coat that traps loose hair.

• Maltese – Tiny, silky-haired dogs that shed very little.

• Chinese Crested – Hairless variety has almost no fur, minimizing allergens.

Managing Shedding in Small Spaces

Regular grooming reduces allergens. Using an air purifier helps trap pet dander. Washing bedding often also minimizes allergens in the home.

Check out more hypoallergenic breeds at the Puppy Dreams Blog.

Choosings a Low-Maintenance Dog for City Living

For a busy city lifestyle, a low-maintenance dog should be easy to groom, train, and keep happy in a small space.

A well-matched dog can thrive in an apartment. Small breeds need less space, and some medium and large dogs adjust well with proper care. Hypoallergenic options help allergy sufferers, and quieter breeds keep peace in shared spaces. Before adopting, consider pet policies, exercise needs, and space constraints. Choose wisely, and your furry companion will love apartment life as much as you do.

Best Dog Breeds for Apartment Living

Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t have a dog! Some breeds thrive in smaller spaces, offering affection and companionship without needing a huge yard. At Puppy Dreams, we can help you find the perfect apartment-friendly pup to fit your lifestyle. Start your search for the ideal apartment dog today!