If you live in an apartment or condominium that allows pets, you might consider having a dog.
Many dogs adapt well to small spaces, especially small to medium-sized breeds, although some large breeds can also be an option.
Important Tip
Breed Characteristics
Dogs that adapt best to apartments or condominiums are generally quiet breeds with low to medium energy levels.
Smaller breeds often fit better in these homes, although some toy breeds may be too noisy for environments with close neighbors.
Here are 15 of the best dog breeds for apartments.
Basset Hounds are renowned for their gentle and laid-back nature, making them excellent companions for families and individuals alike. These dogs possess a distinctive appearance with their long, droopy ears, soulful eyes, and low-slung bodies.
Despite their somewhat lazy demeanor, Basset Hounds have a keen sense of smell, stemming from their origins as scent hounds. With their affectionate and amiable disposition, Basset Hounds bring joy and companionship to any household.
Group: Hound
Height: up to 15 inches
Weight: 40 to 65 pounds
Coat and color: short coat; colors include black, brown, light brown, white, red, and lemon
Life expectancy: 12 to 13 years
Bichon Frise
Bichons are favorites among small dog enthusiasts. They are usually loyal and happy dogs with a medium energy level.
While many small dogs are known to bark a lot, the Bichon is not too noisy. Daily play sessions and walks should be enough to satisfy a Bichon's exercise needs.
Group: Non-sporting
Height: 24 to 29 centimeters (9.4 to 11.4 inches)
Weight: 5 to 8 kilograms (11 to 17.6 pounds)
Coat and color: Alert eyes; soft coat; colors include white, white and apricot, and white and cream
Life expectancy: 14 to 15 years
Bulldog
Medium-sized bulldogs have a moderate energy level. Regular exercise is necessary, but the breed has a fairly low tolerance for intense activities.
One or two daily walks and some playtime are usually sufficient. Bulldogs are generally loyal and jovial companions. They tend to be fairly quiet - as long as you don't mind some snoring.
Group: Non-Sporting
Height: 36 to 38 centimeters (14 to 15 inches)
Weight: 18 to 23 kilograms (40 to 50 pounds)
Coat and color: Straight, short, fine-textured, smooth, and glossy; comes in red, white, fawn, or any combination of these colors, with or without patterns and markings such as brindle, piebald, spotted, black masks, or black tips
Life expectancy: 8 to 10 years
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is typically cheerful and carefree, yet calm and gentle.
It has a moderate energy level, benefiting from daily walks and games. But what it really thrives on is companionship. This dog can be moderately vocal, but generally is happy to quietly snuggle on the couch.
Group: Toy
Height: 30 to 33 centimeters (11.8 to 13 inches)
Weight: 6 to 8 kilograms (13.2 to 17.6 pounds)
Coat and color: Medium, silky coat; colors include black and tan, black and white, and more
Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas have a lot of personality in a small body. The breed has a medium to high energy level, requiring daily walks and playtime, but their small size means a small apartment is adequate space.
Some Chihuahuas can be a bit vocal, especially when they hear potential intruders, but with proper training, barking can be controlled.
Group: Toy
Height: 5 to 8 inches
Weight: up to 6 pounds
Coat and color: smooth or long coat; most common colors include black, brown, fawn, cream, white, blue, silver, chocolate, and red
Life expectancy: 14 to 16 years
Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested tends to be alert and affectionate, enjoying spending time with its family. Its small size and medium energy level make these dogs another great option for apartments.
Despite their delicate appearance, they are strong athletes. Canine sports and puzzle games are ideal for exercising their minds and bodies.
Group: Toy Height: 28 to 33 centimeters (11 to 13 inches)
Weight: 3.6 to 5.4 kilograms (8 to 12 pounds)
Coat and color: Hair on the head, feet, and tail (hairless); soft and silky coat (powderpuff); colors include black, blue, cream, and more; their hairless body is usually gray-pink, often with white spots along the chest and belly
Life expectancy: 13 to 18 years
Greyhound
You may know them for racing, but Greyhounds are true "couch potatoes" by nature. While they enjoy a good run, they don't have enough endurance to need more than daily walks.
These dogs tend to be very affectionate and may whine loudly when left alone. Training for separation anxiety can help.
Group: Hound
Height: 27 to 30 inches
Weight: 60 to 70 pounds
Coat and color: Short coat; colors include black, blue, fawn, red, white, and brindle
Life expectancy: 10 to 13 years
Maltese
Playful yet gentle, the Maltese is a true delight. He only requires basic daily exercise, including one or two walks and playtime.
Additionally, the breed is less prone to being vocal compared to many other small dogs He loves nothing more than sitting on your lap and showering you with affection.
Group: Toy
Height: 7 to 9 inches
Weight: Up to 7 pounds
Coat and color: White, with long, silky single-layered coat without undercoat
Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years
Poodle
Poodles of all sizes (toy, miniature, and standard) can adapt well to apartments. These dogs are intelligent and have moderate to high energy levels.
Some poodles may need extra exercise to keep them happy in a small home. But fortunately, they tend to be disciplined and obedient with proper training.
Group: Non-Sporting
Height: Standard: over 15 inches; Miniature: 10 to 15 inches; Toy: up to 10 inches
Weight: Standard: 40 to 70 pounds; Miniature: 10 to 15 pounds; Toy: 4 to 6 pounds
Coat and Color: Curly and dense coat; colors include white, apricot, black, brown, and gray
Life Expectancy: 10 to 18 years
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a happy, affectionate, and playful little dog that only needs basic daily exercise and general training. These dogs tend to form close bonds with their favorite humans.
But if you have to leave them at home, they'll likely be happily relaxing while waiting for your return.
Group: Toy
Height: 9 to 10.5 inches
Weight: 9 to 16 pounds
Coat and color: Long, flowing coat; colors include black, blue, brindle, gold, liver, silver, red, and more
Life expectancy: 10 to 18 years
Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds are miniature versions of Greyhounds. They have similar qualities in a smaller package, weighing 4.5 kilograms compared to 27 kilograms.
They are a bit more manageable for new dog owners or those who prefer smaller dog breeds. They are affectionate, love to cuddle, but still enjoy the occasional chance to run.
The French Bulldog, affectionately known as the "Frenchie," is a charming and affectionate companion breed with a rich history dating back to the 19th century. Despite their small stature, French Bulldogs possess a big personality.
They are renowned for their distinctive bat-like ears, wrinkled face, and compact build. With their gentle demeanor and minimal exercise needs, Frenchies thrive as indoor pets and are well-suited for apartment living.
Group: Non-Sporting
Height: 28 to 33 centimeters (11 to 13 inches)
Weight: less than 12.7 kilograms (28 pounds)
Coat and color: Short and smooth coat in brindle, fawn, white, or a combination of brindle and white or fawn and white
Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years
Pugs are happy to stay at home. These dog darlings are comical, affectionate, good-natured, and playful.
The pug is a small dog with a big personality, ideal for those who want a compact yet active companion. The balanced temperament of this breed makes it a good choice for families with children.
Havanese
This playful and affectionate Cuban dog can thrive in an urban environment, in small spaces, or in luxurious properties. This 10-pound dog can adapt to living practically anywhere.
Havanese dogs require daily exercise but don't need much. These dogs are happy to cuddle on your lap or play indoors.
Boston Terriers don't have high exercise needs, but they do require some mental stimulation, enrichment, and attention. If they feel neglected, they can develop problematic behaviors.
Nevertheless, they should receive at least one or two daily walks and may enjoy a canine agility course. Living in an apartment and in the city should be suitable for this breed.
Group: Non-Sporting
Height: 15 to 17 inches Weight: 12 to 25 pounds
Coat and color: Short and smooth coat; white muzzle and chest; the rest of the body is black, brindle, or seal
Life expectancy: 11 to 13 years