Some dogs were born to roam—not to be crammed into a one-bedroom walk-up.
Sure, a cozy apartment might work for some pups. But for others? It’s a straight-up struggle. These dogs need space, action, and room to live their best, tail-wagging lives.
We’re talking big bodies, bigger energy, and zero chill.
Cramped hallways and second-floor balconies just won’t cut it.
These breeds weren’t made for tight quarters. They crave open yards, long runs, and the kind of freedom that doesn’t come with shared walls and elevator rides.
So before you fall in love with those big paws and fluffy coats, make sure your living space can handle the dog that comes with them.
Here are 21 dog breeds that just don’t do well in apartments—and why life outside the city might be more their speed.
Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard, with its towering stature and soulful eyes, is a breed that has captured hearts worldwide. Known for its history of alpine rescues, this gentle giant is both affectionate and protective.
However, its size alone makes apartment living challenging. Weighing up to 180 pounds, a Saint Bernard needs ample space to stretch out comfortably. Additionally, they are prone to drooling, which can be a nuisance in confined spaces.
Regular exercise is crucial, and a small apartment doesn’t provide the room for this breed’s playful antics. Saint Bernards truly thrive in homes with large backyards.
Great Dane
With a name that translates to ‘great’ for a reason, the Great Dane is a true gentle giant of the dog world. Standing as tall as 32 inches, their sheer height is enough to make apartment living impractical.
While they are surprisingly gentle and calm indoors, space constraints can lead to accidental bumps and spills. Their long legs require room to move, and a quick dash across a small living room can result in chaos.
For a breed that loves to lounge, a cozy corner in a spacious home is ideal for these towering companions.
Newfoundland
With a heart as big as its paws, the Newfoundland is every child’s gentle guardian. This water-loving breed is renowned for its swimming skills, often referred to as ‘nature’s lifeguard.’
However, their dense double coat and substantial size make apartment living a challenge. Newfoundlands can weigh up to 150 pounds and need plenty of room to move and exercise.
They thrive in environments where they can swim and roam freely. Their love for water and their protective instincts make them better suited for homes with access to large outdoor spaces.
Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound, with its elegant stature and ancient lineage, is a breed of dignity and grace. Originally bred for hunting wolves, this breed is known for its incredible speed and endurance.
With long legs and a lean body, the Irish Wolfhound needs space to run and play. Apartment living stifles their natural instincts, making them better suited for homes with large yards.
Despite their size, they are gentle and affectionate, craving companionship. Regular exercise is essential to keep them happy and healthy. Their regal appearance and gentle nature make them a beloved breed for those with ample space.
Bernese Mountain Dog
A breed that’s as hardworking as it is endearing, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a robust canine with a heart of gold. Known for its friendly disposition and striking tricolor coat, this breed was originally used as a farm dog in the Swiss Alps.
Their strength and endurance make them excellent working dogs, but these traits can be a hindrance in an apartment setting. They require regular exercise to channel their energy positively.
Their thick coat, while beautiful, also demands regular grooming. In a spacious environment, they thrive, providing companionship and loyalty to their families.
Mastiff
Mastiffs are the epitome of a gentle giant. With their massive size and calm demeanor, they are not suited for apartment living. Known for their protective nature, they make excellent guard dogs in homes with ample space.
Their size alone can be overwhelming in confined spaces, and they require room to stretch and move without knocking over furniture. Though they are relatively low-energy indoors, they still need regular outdoor exercise to maintain their health.
Their loyalty and protective instincts are unmatched, making them a beloved breed for those with the space to accommodate them.
Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes, with their strength and endurance, are built for the great outdoors. Originally bred for pulling sleds across icy landscapes, their need for physical activity is immense.
Apartment life can be stifling for this energetic breed. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay content. Their thick fur, designed for cold climates, can be cumbersome in a small, warm apartment.
Malamutes thrive in homes where they can run and explore. Their playful and affectionate nature makes them wonderful companions for active families who can meet their adventurous spirit.
Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies, with their striking blue eyes and wolf-like appearance, are a breed that demands attention. Known for their boundless energy and playful nature, Huskies are not suited for apartment living.
They thrive in environments where they can run freely and explore. Their thick coats are adapted to cold climates, making them uncomfortable in confined, warm spaces. Huskies are also known escape artists, so secure fencing is a must.
Regular exercise and mental challenges keep them happy and healthy. For those with the space and dedication, they reward their families with endless affection and loyalty.
Rottweiler
Rottweilers are known for their strength, intelligence, and loyalty. Originally bred to herd cattle and pull carts, they are robust dogs with a keen sense of duty. Apartment living can stifle their natural instincts, as they need space to roam and exercise.
Rottweilers thrive in environments where they can engage in physical activities and mental challenges. Their protective nature makes them excellent guard dogs, but it also means they need proper training and socialization.
With their families, they are affectionate and playful, making them a beloved breed for those who can accommodate their needs.
Bullmastiff
Bullmastiffs are formidable yet affectionate companions. Known for their protective instincts and gentle demeanor, they make excellent family dogs. However, their size and strength make them unsuitable for apartment living.
Bullmastiffs need space to move and relax without causing chaos. Their calm nature indoors doesn’t negate the need for regular outdoor exercise. They thrive in homes with spacious yards where they can patrol and play.
Bullmastiffs are loyal and gentle with their families, making them a cherished breed for those who have the room to accommodate their impressive stature.
Boxer
Boxers are known for their boundless energy and playful personalities. With their muscular builds and expressive faces, they bring joy and laughter to any home. However, apartment living can be challenging for this active breed.
Boxers need regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy. A lack of space can lead to restlessness and boredom. They thrive in homes with large yards where they can run and play freely.
Despite their energetic nature, Boxers are affectionate and loyal companions, making them a favorite for active families who can meet their exercise needs.
Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Pinschers are sleek, intelligent, and elegant, known for their loyalty and protective instincts. Originally bred as guard dogs, they are alert and attentive, making them excellent watchdogs.
However, their need for space and exercise makes apartment living a challenge. Dobermans require regular physical activity and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. A large yard provides the perfect environment for them to run and play.
With their families, they are affectionate and devoted companions, but they need proper training and socialization. For those with the space, they are a cherished addition to the family.
German Shepherd
German Shepherds are renowned for their intelligence, versatility, and loyalty. Originally bred for herding, they are highly skilled working dogs that excel in various roles, from police work to search and rescue.
However, their energy and need for mental stimulation make apartment living unsuitable. German Shepherds thrive in environments where they can engage in physical and mental challenges.
A large yard provides the space they need to run and play. With their families, they are protective and loving companions, eager to please and quick to learn. For those with the space, they are an invaluable addition to any home.
Rhodesian Ridgeback
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are known for their striking appearance and impressive agility. Originally bred to hunt lions in Africa, they are courageous and tenacious dogs.
Apartment living can be challenging for this active breed, as they need space to run and explore. Ridgebacks thrive in homes with large yards where they can exercise and engage in physical activities.
Their independent nature requires consistent training and socialization. With their families, they are loyal and affectionate, making them a beloved breed for those who can provide the space and attention they crave.
Weimaraner
Weimaraners are sleek, energetic, and intelligent dogs known for their striking silver-gray coats. Originally bred for hunting, they possess a strong prey drive and an insatiable curiosity.
Apartment living can be limiting for this active breed, as they require ample exercise and mental stimulation. Weimaraners thrive in homes with large outdoor spaces where they can run, explore, and satisfy their hunting instincts.
Known as ‘velcro dogs,’ they are incredibly loyal and crave companionship. For those who can provide the space and attention they need, Weimaraners are devoted and affectionate members of the family.
Border Collie
Considered one of the most intelligent dog breeds, Border Collies are renowned for their agility and work ethic. Bred for herding, they are tireless and thrive in environments where they can engage in physical and mental challenges.
Apartment living can lead to boredom and restlessness for this energetic breed. Border Collies require regular exercise and stimulation to be content. They excel in activities like agility training and herding trials.
Their playful and affectionate nature makes them wonderful companions for active families. Due to their intelligence and energy, they are best suited for homes with ample space.
Dalmatian
Dalmatians are known for their distinctive spots and boundless energy. Originally bred as carriage dogs, they are fast runners with a strong sense of duty.
Apartment living can be restrictive for this active breed, as they need regular exercise to channel their energy positively. Dalmatians thrive in environments where they can run and play freely.
Their playful and social nature makes them great companions for families who can meet their exercise needs. With proper training and socialization, Dalmatians are loyal and loving pets, adding joy and excitement to any household with the space to accommodate them.
Vizsla
Often referred to as the ‘Velcro dog,’ Vizslas are known for their affectionate and loyal nature. With a sleek and athletic build, they are incredibly energetic and require ample exercise.
Apartment living can be challenging for this active breed due to their need for space to run and play. Vizslas thrive in homes with large yards where they can engage in physical activities and explore their surroundings.
Their need for companionship makes them perfect for active families who can spend time with them. For those who can provide the space and attention they need, Vizslas are devoted and loving pets.
Airedale Terrier
Airedale Terriers, known as the ‘King of Terriers,’ are the largest of the terrier breeds. With their wiry coats and keen intelligence, they are both curious and adventurous.
Apartment living can be stifling for this energetic breed, as they need space to explore and play. Airedales thrive in homes with large yards where they can engage in physical activities and satisfy their curiosity.
Their independent nature requires consistent training and socialization. With their families, they are affectionate and loyal companions, eager to please and quick to learn. For those with the space, they are a delightful addition to any home.
Bloodhound
Bloodhounds are renowned for their incredible sense of smell and tracking abilities. Originally bred for hunting, they possess an unyielding determination when on a scent trail.
Apartment living can be challenging for this breed, as they require ample space to roam and explore. Bloodhounds thrive in environments where they can engage their tracking instincts and satisfy their curiosity.
Their droopy ears and soulful eyes add to their charm, making them beloved companions for those who can provide the space and attention they need. With proper training and socialization, Bloodhounds are gentle and affectionate pets.
Afghan Hound
With their long flowing coats and elegant stride, Afghan Hounds are the epitome of grace and beauty. Originally bred for hunting in the mountainous regions of Afghanistan, they possess both speed and agility.
Apartment living can be restrictive for this active breed, as they require ample space to run and explore. Afghan Hounds thrive in homes with large yards where they can engage in physical activities and showcase their grace.
Their independent nature requires patience and consistent training. For those with the space and dedication, Afghan Hounds are loyal and regal companions, adding elegance to any home.