These Breeds Make the Best Apartment Dogs
Whether you're in a cramped high-rise condo or a teeny-tiny bungalow, these easygoing breeds will fit right in.
The Best Apartment Dogs
Pug
Pugs make even-tempered, loyal companions, and their compact size also makes them one of the best apartment dogs. These four-legged jesters are curious by nature, so they require a lot of time to explore their surroundings on walks. Once they’re back home, however, pugs can relax and unwind very quickly. They get along well with adults and children, and their adaptable nature makes them wonderful additions to households that already include other pets.
Yorkshire Terrier
If you’re looking for a sprightly, affectionate dog that’s small in size yet big in personality, then a Yorkshire Terrier—or Yorkies, as they’re commonly known—might be the perfect match. Yorkies have served as four-legged companions since the Victorian era, and their popularity certainly hasn’t subsided into the 21st century. Their energy can be quelled with daily walks, and they’re low-maintenance to boot: Minimal shedding means you won’t have to constantly be vacuuming dog hair from your furniture!
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English Bulldog
According to the American Kennel Club, English Bulldogs are renowned for being calm, courageous and very protective of their human friends. The best part? These bulldogs don’t require much exercise outside of regular walks and the occasional vigorous playdate, which makes them one of the best dogs for apartments.
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Shih Tzu
What’s better suited to small space living than a dog that’s considered a “toy breed”? Shih Tzus’ long flowing coats may be high-maintenance, but their mild temperaments and affectionate natures make them worth the extra effort when it comes to grooming. Although they tend to be alarmed by strangers, Shih Tzus are perfectly comfortable in their own territory, and they love to cuddle with the people they adore.
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Chihuahua
Looking for a dog that’s small, sweet and more than a little sassy? Look no further than the Chihuahua! Chihuahuas are considered one of the best apartment dogs because of their tiny stature (which makes them easy to cart around if you’re on the go!), and the fact that they don’t require a lot of exercise. Chihuahuas are content in households that consist of adults, children and other pets, but be prepared to spoil them: Chihuahuas crave attention and form very close bonds with the humans they love.
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Greyhound
This classic European breed is beloved by canine enthusiasts around the world. But don’t let their tall, lanky build fool you: Considered “mellow house dogs” according to the American Kennel Club, Greyhounds actually don’t require a lot of exercise beyond the regular sprint in the dog park to expend their energy. They’re smart and easy to train, but their independent nature makes them solitary companions who function best in single-pet families.
French Bulldog
Cute, friendly and just plain jolly, French Bulldogs (also known as “Frenchies”) are great apartment dogs. They don’t bark much, and like their English Bulldog cousins, they require less exercise than many other four-legged friends. Due to their playful dispositions, they tend to get along well with strangers and are good with children. Take heed, however, because Frenchies don’t fare well in extreme temperatures—especially heat. If you’re welcoming one to your small space, make sure you also have air-conditioning to keep him or her cool and comfortable through the summer.
Great Dane
Surprise! It’s hard to believe that these gentle giants make wonderful pets for small apartments, but it’s true! Great Danes are patient, friendly dogs, and contrary to their lean physical stature, they don’t require a lot of exercise. These majestic creatures can quite happily spend all day lounging on the couch, so if you’re looking for a four-legged friend to hang out with during those Netflix binges, then a Great Dane could be your perfect match!
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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Here’s a sensitive breed that adores being around people and is renowned for good behaviour. (Plus, who can resist that face?) Cavalier King Charles Spaniels function well as apartment dogs because they are mild-mannered and affectionate with humans and other animals. Another bonus is that they’re considered a toy breed, which means minimal shedding provided you given them a weekly brush-down. Daily exercise is important, however, so be prepared for regular visits to the park to play with other pooches.
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Dachshund
Did you know that the Dachshund was initially bred in Germany to hunt badgers, rabbits and foxes? More than 300 years later, this short, energetic breed has become a beloved choice for families across the globe—especially those in smaller homes, condos and apartments. Dachshunds are considered very intelligent dogs, which means they become bored easily. If you plan on leaving them at home on their own for long periods of time, make sure there’s plenty to keep them entertained.
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Miniature Pinscher
The American Kennel Club suggests that Miniature Pinschers are the ideal dog breed for small homes, condos or apartments. At first look, it may seem like they were bred as scaled-down versions of Dobermans, when in fact, “Min Pins” are a much older breed, whose ancestors were Dachshunds and Greyhounds. Considered great watchdogs, this breed benefits from experienced owners who can handle their exceptional intelligence and energy. Min Pins benefit from obedience school training, especially if they will be left at home for long periods of time.
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Basenji
Not sure whether you want a cat or a dog as a pet? When you add a Basenji to your home, you can have the benefits of both! Native to Africa, the Basenji is a hound dog with cat-like tendencies, which means it grooms itself a lot. These dogs are loyal and protective of their pack, and they don’t bark like their four-legged cousins—they yodel! Their curious natures make them prone to escape, so it’s important to ensure your Basenji feels secure in its space. Make sure it gets daily, vigorous exercise to avoid boredom, or its exploratory instincts will kick in.
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Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier is an adaptable breed that’s been popular in North America for just over a century. Initially bred to fight, they’re now calm, lovable dogs that don’t require a lot of space to feel at home, and tend not to bark, making them ideal for condos and apartments. What’s more, the “American Gentlemen” (a moniker derived from their tuxedo-like markings) don’t need a great deal of exercise: A brisk walk through city streets will usually suffice.
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