Apartment living doesn’t mean you can’t have a dog! In fact, there are dog breeds who are “paw-fect” for apartment living. Keep reading about the best dog breeds for apartment living.
Maybe you’ve had to downsize recently. Or you are an empty nester thinking about saving on living expenses. Or maybe you are moving into your first apartment!
Regardless of the circumstances, you can have a dog in an apartment! (If the apartment complex is dog-friendly; be sure to check first along with any breed restrictions and weight limits before moving in or adopting a new dog. Also ask about pet rent!)
Owning a dog does not automatically mean you must have a large, fenced-in yard. For some canine breeds, with regular exercise and socialization, they will happily share your small space.
The Best Dogs for Smaller Spaces
Typically, the canines who will do best living in smaller places include dogs who:
- Are friendly (with both humans, young and old and other pets).
- Have lower energy (including both small and large breeds).
- Are quieter (ok, this one is more for your neighbors!).
It may come as a surprise but living in a small apartment does not have to mean a small, pint-size or even “teacup” dog. Many giant breeds have lower energy and activity levels and who make the perfect couch potato! Just as long as you are willing and comfortable sharing every inch of space, bed and couch!
Click here for the AKC’s list of Best Dogs
for Apartments or keep reading.
The Best Dog Breeds for Apartments
Remember, any dog you choose to share your life with, first make sure the breed and the actual dog fits your lifestyle and comfort zone. Even the perfect apartment dog still needs outside exercise, regular socialization with other dogs and people and dog training.
Below we’ll look at some of the commonly recommended breeds who can happily co-exist with you in an apartment!
American Hairless Terrier (perfect for people with allergies or who dislike shedding)- Basenji (known as the “barkless dog” for its vocal yodels and howls)
- Bichon Frise (known as wonderful “personality dogs”)
- Bolognese (easy-going and calm)
- Boston Terrier (lively, friendly and known as “The American Gentleman”)
- Bulldog (docile and kind, but need cooler homes for easier breathing)
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (gentle and attentive)
- Chinese Crested (sweet and ultra-affectionate and perfect for people with allergies or who dislike lots of shedding)
- French Bulldog (adapts easily, alert and laidback; but need cooler homes for easier breathing)
- Great Dane (the poster dog for “couch potato” and known as a “gentle giant”)
- Greyhound (gentle, calm, sweet-tempered and known as the “45-mph-couch-potato”)
- Havanese (sociable and outgoing)
- Japanese Chin (the perfect, graceful and generally quiet lapdog)
American Hairless Terrier (perfect for people with allergies or who dislike shedding)
- Maltese (adapts easily and gentle)
- Mastiff (calm, gentle and also known as a “gentle giant;” warning: drool alert!)
- Pug (charming and often referred to as the ideal house dog; warning: they snore!)
- Shih Tzu (affectionate, outgoing and known as the little “Lion Dog”)
A Final Reminder
Again, whichever breed you choose to share your apartment with, all dogs need regular exercise and socialization in the outside world. If you need help with that, find a local doggy daycare, pet sitting or dog walking service to keep your canine happy, healthy and social!
(Live in the Chandler, Gilbert, Tempe and East Valley areas of Arizona?
Call East Valley K9 Services for our professional pet care, dog training
East Valley K9 Services is offering
SAFE Doggy Daycare During COVID-19!
We offer safe valet service for doggy daycare. We will come to your home in the morning for pick-up and then drop-off your dog in the evening while adhering to social distancing guidelines.
Just email or call us at 480-382-0144.
East Valley K9 Services has got all your
dog training, doggy daycare and dog boarding needs covered in the Chandler, Gilbert, Tempe and East Valley areas of Arizona!
Additional Reading
Apartment Finder: Top Dog Breeds for Apartment Life
The AKC: Best Dogs for Apartments
Good Housekeeping: 15 Best Apartment Dogs for People with Small Spaces and Big Hearts
PetHelpful: What Kind of Dog Should I Get? 10 Best Dog Breeds for Apartment Living
Image Credits (In Order of Appearance):
