Living in a small apartment doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the joy of having a dog. Certain breeds are well-suited for compact spaces, offering companionship without requiring a large backyard.
These dogs typically have lower energy levels, require less space, and are less prone to excessive barking, making them ideal for apartment life. Here, we explore 23 of the best dog breeds for apartment dwellers.
You’ll find dogs that are friendly, manageable, and ready to adapt to a more confined lifestyle while still bringing plenty of joy and love into your home.
French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is a charming, small breed that’s perfect for apartment living. Known for their bat-like ears and affectionate nature, they are low-energy dogs who enjoy lounging with their owners.
These dogs require minimal exercise, making them well-suited for those with busy lifestyles. Despite their small size, French Bulldogs have a sturdy build and a playful personality.
They are also relatively quiet, which is a plus for shared walls in apartments. Their companionship and adaptability make them ideal for urban living environments, bringing warmth and joy into any apartment.
Dachshund
Dachshunds are delightful dogs with a distinctive long body and short legs. They are known for their curious and brave nature, making them interesting companions.
Despite their small size, they have a big personality and can be quite spirited. Dachshunds adapt well to apartment life due to their minimal exercise needs.
They love to snuggle under blankets and can be a little stubborn, requiring patient training. Their friendly demeanor and size make them perfect for smaller living spaces, where they can enjoy comfort and companionship.
Pug
Pugs are affectionate, small dogs with a distinct wrinkled face and curled tail. They enjoy being around people and have a loving disposition.
Pugs are well-suited for apartment living due to their low energy levels and compact size. They thrive in environments where they can relax and be close to their owners.
While they love short walks, they don’t need a lot of space to be happy. Their easygoing nature and ability to form strong bonds make them delightful apartment companions, bringing joy and laughter into any living space.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are gentle and affectionate dogs, known for their beautiful, silky coats and expressive eyes.
They are great companions who enjoy spending time with their owners, making them ideal for apartment dwellers. These dogs are adaptable and do not require excessive exercise, fitting well into smaller spaces.
Their friendly and sociable nature means they get along with everyone, including children and other pets. This breed is perfect for those seeking a loving and elegant companion in a cozy apartment setting.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are tiny dogs with big personalities, making them excellent for apartment living. Despite their small stature, they are confident and full of energy.
They are well-suited for city life as they require minimal space and exercise. Chihuahuas can be a bit feisty but are deeply loving and loyal to their owners.
Their size makes them easy to carry around, and they enjoy being close to their humans. Ideal for small spaces, Chihuahuas bring a lively spirit and companionship to any apartment, creating a joyful environment.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are delightful companions known for their luxurious coats and sweet nature. They are perfect for small apartments, as they are both calm and affectionate.
These dogs love being pampered and enjoy spending time with their owners. They require regular grooming to keep their coats in top condition, which can be a fun bonding activity.
Shih Tzus do not need extensive exercise, making them ideal for apartment life. Their charming personality and loving nature add warmth and happiness to any home, making them wonderful apartment dogs.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are small, spirited dogs with a luxurious, silky coat. They are perfect for apartment living due to their compact size and lively personality.
Yorkies are highly adaptable and enjoy being the center of attention. Despite their small size, they have a bold character and are quite playful.
They require regular grooming to maintain their beautiful coat but are otherwise low maintenance. Yorkies are excellent watchdogs and make delightful companions for apartment dwellers, adding charm and vitality to any living space.
Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are compact dogs with a friendly and gentle demeanor, making them ideal for apartment life. Known for their distinctive tuxedo-like coat and expressive eyes, they are both charming and sociable.
These dogs are relatively low-energy, requiring only moderate exercise to stay healthy and happy. Their affectionate nature and manageable size make them great companions for smaller spaces.
Boston Terriers love being around people and are known for their excellent manners, making them perfect for apartment living, where they bring joy and companionship.
Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are cheerful, small dogs known for their fluffy white coats and playful nature. They thrive in apartment settings due to their size and friendly disposition.
These dogs are affectionate and enjoy being part of the family, making them perfect companions for cozy living spaces. While they love to play, they don’t require extensive exercise, just regular walks and playtime.
Bichon Frises are also hypoallergenic, a bonus for those with allergies. Their joyful spirit and adaptability make them a wonderful addition to any apartment lifestyle.
Havanese
The Havanese is a small, sturdy dog known for its silky, flowing coat and cheerful disposition. Perfect for apartment living, they are both friendly and adaptable.
Havanese dogs thrive on companionship and enjoy being the center of attention. They also have a playful side, which can be entertained with toys and short walks.
These dogs are low-shedding, making them suitable for allergy sufferers. Their affectionate nature and easygoing temperament make them ideal for those seeking a loving companion in a smaller living environment.
Pekingese
Pekingese are small dogs with a distinctive lion-like appearance and a regal demeanor. They thrive in apartment settings due to their size and calm nature.
These dogs are known for their independent spirit but form strong bonds with their owners. Pekingese require minimal exercise and enjoy lounging in comfortable spots.
Their luxurious coats need regular grooming, which can be a relaxing routine for both dog and owner. Pekingese bring a touch of elegance and companionship to any apartment, making them delightful and manageable pets for small spaces.
Maltese
Maltese are elegant, small dogs known for their long, flowing white coats. They are ideal for apartment living due to their gentle and affectionate nature.
These dogs thrive on human companionship and enjoy being pampered and held. They require minimal exercise, making them perfect for those with a busy schedule.
Regular grooming is needed to keep their coats beautiful, which also serves as quality bonding time. Maltese dogs add a touch of grace and warmth to any apartment, being loving companions that bring happiness and elegance to their environment.
Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzers are small, robust dogs with a distinctive face and lively personality. They are well-suited for apartment living thanks to their manageable size and friendly nature.
These dogs are intelligent and enjoy engaging activities and short walks. They are known for their loyalty and form strong bonds with their families.
Regular grooming is necessary to keep their unique appearance in check. Miniature Schnauzers bring both energy and companionship to apartment life, making them delightful pets for those seeking a spirited and affectionate companion.
Papillon
Papillons are small, elegant dogs known for their distinctive butterfly-like ears. They are ideal for apartment living due to their size and lively disposition.
These dogs are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train. They enjoy interactive play and short walks, fitting well into a busy lifestyle.
Papillons are friendly and enjoy being part of the family, bringing joy and companionship. Their beautiful appearance and playful nature make them wonderful additions to apartment life, adding a touch of elegance and joy to any home.
Pomeranian
Pomeranians are small, vibrant dogs with a thick, fluffy coat and a lively personality. They are well-suited for apartment living due to their manageable size and energetic nature.
These dogs enjoy being the center of attention and have a charming, extroverted demeanor that delights their owners. Regular playtime and short walks satisfy their exercise needs.
Pomeranians require grooming to maintain their beautiful coats, which can be an enjoyable routine. Their spirited nature and affectionate disposition make them excellent companions for those in smaller living environments.
Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds are small, slender dogs known for their elegance and gentle nature. They are perfect for apartment life due to their calm and affectionate personality.
Despite their slender build, they are sturdy and require only minimal exercise, enjoying short walks or playtime. Their short coat is easy to maintain, adding to their suitability for indoor living.
Italian Greyhounds form strong bonds with their owners and love lounging comfortably, making them ideal companions for cozy apartments where they can offer love and companionship.
Lhasa Apso
Lhasa Apsos are confident, small dogs known for their long, beautiful coats. They are ideal for apartment living due to their size and independent nature.
These dogs require regular grooming, which keeps their coats in pristine condition and serves as bonding time. Lhasa Apsos enjoy moderate walks but are equally content to relax indoors.
They are loving and loyal to their families, providing a sense of security and companionship. Their elegant appearance and endearing personality make them perfect for those seeking a devoted friend in an apartment setting.
Poodle (Toy)
Toy Poodles are intelligent, small dogs known for their curly coats and playful nature. They are excellent for apartment living due to their size and adaptability.
These dogs are highly trainable and enjoy mental stimulation, making them ideal for interactive activities. Regular grooming is necessary to keep their coats looking their best.
Despite their small stature, Toy Poodles have a lively spirit and love being part of the family. Their intelligence and affectionate nature make them wonderful companions, bringing joy and elegance to any apartment environment.
Coton de Tulear
The Coton de Tulear is a small, charming dog known for its cotton-like coat and cheerful disposition. Perfect for apartment living, they are friendly and adaptable.
These dogs thrive on companionship and enjoy being around people, making them excellent family pets. They require minimal exercise, enjoying short walks and playtime.
Regular grooming keeps their coats beautiful and can be a bonding experience. Cotons are known for their joyful character and bring warmth and laughter to any apartment, being loving companions who fit perfectly into smaller living environments.
English Bulldog
English Bulldogs are known for their distinctive wrinkled face and gentle temperament. They are well-suited for apartment life due to their calm nature and low exercise needs.
These dogs enjoy leisurely walks and are content to lounge indoors, making them ideal for city living. Their sturdy build and affectionate nature make them great companions for families.
English Bulldogs form strong bonds with their owners and thrive in environments where they can relax. Their presence brings a sense of warmth and security, making them perfect for cozy apartment settings.
Scottish Terrier
Scottish Terriers are small, sturdy dogs known for their distinct appearance and independent nature. They are well-suited for apartment living due to their manageable size and confidence.
These dogs enjoy regular walks and playtime, engaging in interactive activities that stimulate their minds. Their loyalty and strong bonds with their families make them excellent companions.
Scottish Terriers require regular grooming to maintain their unique coats. Their personality and adaptability make them perfect for apartment dwellers seeking a devoted and spirited companion.
West Highland White Terrier
West Highland White Terriers, or Westies, are small, lively dogs known for their distinct white coats and friendly nature. They are ideal for apartment living due to their size and adaptability.
These dogs enjoy daily walks and playtime, thriving in interactive environments. Their cheerful disposition and love for companionship make them delightful family pets.
Regular grooming is necessary to keep their coats looking pristine. Westies bring joy and vitality to any apartment, offering a lively presence and devoted friendship to their owners in smaller living spaces.
Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless)
The Xoloitzcuintli, known as the Mexican Hairless, offers a unique option for apartment dwellers seeking something out of the ordinary. This ancient breed, revered by the Aztecs, is known for its calm demeanor and minimal grooming requirements.
Their lack of fur makes them low-maintenance in terms of shedding, but they do require regular skin care to keep it healthy. The Xoloitzcuintli thrives in a stable, loving environment and adapts well to indoor living.
Despite their exotic appearance, they are affectionate and loyal companions, making them ideal for those who appreciate the unusual in a pet.