Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t have a furry companion. While some dog breeds are better suited for large homes with backyards, there are many breeds that thrive in smaller living spaces. Here’s a guide to the ten best dog breeds for apartment living, focusing on their size, temperament, and exercise needs.
1. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are one of the most popular apartment dogs. They are small, typically weighing under 28 pounds, and have a friendly and adaptable nature. Frenchies are known for their affectionate and playful personalities, making them excellent companions. They don’t require a lot of exercise, so a few short walks and some playtime indoors are usually sufficient to keep them happy.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are affectionate and gentle dogs, making them ideal for apartment living. They are small, weighing between 13 to 18 pounds, and are known for their friendly and adaptable nature. Cavaliers enjoy moderate exercise, such as daily walks and play sessions. They are also good with children and other pets, adding to their appeal as apartment dogs.
3. Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers, often called “American Gentlemen” due to their tuxedo-like markings, are perfect for apartment life. They are small, typically weighing around 15 to 25 pounds, and have a friendly and energetic personality. Boston Terriers are known for being intelligent and easily trainable. They require regular exercise but are content with short walks and indoor play.
4. Pug
Pugs are charming and affectionate dogs that do well in apartments. They are small, weighing between 14 to 18 pounds, and have a playful yet laid-back demeanor. Pugs are known for their loving nature and strong bonds with their owners. They don’t need a lot of exercise, but they enjoy short walks and interactive play sessions. Due to their brachycephalic (short-nosed) structure, they are sensitive to extreme temperatures, making indoor living ideal for them.
5. Dachshund
Dachshunds, also known as “wiener dogs,” are small and lively dogs that fit well in apartments. They come in two sizes: standard (16 to 32 pounds) and miniature (under 11 pounds). Dachshunds are playful and courageous, often exhibiting a big personality in a small body. They require moderate exercise and enjoy activities like walks and games that stimulate their minds and bodies. Their size and adaptability make them great for apartment living.
6. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are small and energetic dogs that thrive in apartment settings. They weigh around 7 pounds and are known for their bold and confident personalities. Despite their small size, Yorkies are active and enjoy regular exercise, including walks and playtime. They are also highly trainable and can be taught to use indoor potty pads, making them convenient for apartment dwellers.
7. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are affectionate and low-energy dogs that are well-suited for apartment living. They weigh between 9 to 16 pounds and have a friendly and outgoing nature. Shih Tzus enjoy moderate exercise, such as short walks and indoor play. Their small size and gentle demeanor make them excellent companions for those living in smaller spaces.
8. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are cheerful and playful dogs that do well in apartments. They weigh between 12 to 18 pounds and are known for their friendly and sociable nature. Bichons are active and require regular exercise, but their small size makes it easy to meet their needs with short walks and playtime. They are also hypoallergenic, which can be a bonus for people with allergies.
9. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are one of the smallest dog breeds, making them perfect for apartment living. They typically weigh between 2 to 6 pounds and have a bold and lively personality. Chihuahuas are loyal and often form strong bonds with their owners. They require minimal exercise and are content with short walks and indoor play. Their small size and adaptability make them ideal for small living spaces.
10. Maltese
Maltese dogs are small and affectionate, making them great apartment pets. They weigh between 4 to 7 pounds and are known for their gentle and playful nature. Maltese dogs enjoy moderate exercise, such as short walks and indoor play. Their small size and low-shedding coat make them a good choice for apartment dwellers who want a loving and manageable pet.
