Finding your ideal furry companion doesn’t need to be impossible when living in an apartment; with some research and effort you can welcome home an animal who will thrive in your space.
Look for a breed that matches your lifestyle, energy level, barking tendencies and grooming needs – we’ve listed some of the best small dogs for apartment living below.
French Bulldog
Frenchies make an excellent apartment companion due to their calm demeanor and minimal exercise requirements, and enjoy lounging around on couches with humans nearby.
Miniature pinschers require moderate exercise, though their small bodies make it easy for them to receive it indoors. Simply taking regular walks and engaging in some form of play time are enough to keep these adorable dogs happy and healthy.
Large dogs with high energy levels may not be suitable for small apartments due to their frequent and loud barks which could breach lease agreements and disturb neighbors.
Greyhound
Greyhounds may appear energetic and eager to run and play, but in reality they prefer relaxation in their homes. Low-energy Greyhounds can be happy with just an occasional walk and some indoor games to keep them active and occupied.
GSDs are gentle dogs that make ideal apartment companions, blending in seamlessly with both other animals and humans without disrupting neighbors or becoming overactive.
Bichon Frise
Bichon Frise are friendly and adaptable dogs who thrive living in small spaces. Daily walks or playing tug-of-war indoors is ideal to stimulate them.
These small spaniels love snuggling, yet are excellent at agility competitions. Apartment-living should not pose any significant problems – just ensure they receive regular grooming sessions, and watch for any signs of separation anxiety that could develop – this breed often displays this characteristic.
Biewer Terrier
Biewer Terriers make ideal apartment companions. Not needing much exercise themselves, these friendly little pups prefer playing quietly or lying on the sofa most days. Additionally, their low shedder status and friendly disposition makes them great with children and other pets alike.
As they can be shy around strangers, it’s best to socialize them from an early age. A daily walk and some indoor games should help satisfy their physical exercise requirements; plus they make wonderful lap dogs that travel well with you.
Bolognese
Bolognese dogs don’t require much space to live comfortably in an apartment and can even provide assistance to people working from home. Their calm demeanor makes them enjoyable companions who look forward to daily walks and playtime sessions.
These adorable dogs are the epitome of gentle and even-tempered pets; not to mention one of the quietest dog breeds! Perfect as family pets for senior citizens and retirees. Great with children; however should always be under supervision when around them. While they don’t tend to bark much, regular exercise will ensure maximum enjoyment!
Basset Hound
Basset Hounds make excellent apartment companions due to their low-key nature and moderate exercise needs, which allows them to thrive with daily walks around the block.
This breed is an excellent option for apartment dwellers with balconies or small yards who require minimal grooming requirements and care. They get along well with children and other animals while requiring only minimal upkeep.
These dogs are calm and friendly towards both noisy neighbors and brisk walks or lounging on the couch!
Bedlington Terrier
Bedlington Terriers, looking like lambs with terrier teeth, thrive in small apartments as long as they get enough daily physical and mental exercise. Cuddle up close with you – they love cuddling! Also great with kids and other pets!
Intelligent dogs with low energy levels make fantastic apartment dogs. You can fulfill their exercise needs through short walks and indoor games, making these intelligent pups an excellent option for busy city residents. Furthermore, their obedience training requirements can easily be fulfilled in short bursts with only occasional reminders needed from you – making this breed the ideal companion.
Yorkshire Terrier
Biewer terriers (pronounced “beaver”) make ideal pets for homes without yards as their high energy personalities make them great people-pleasers, while being adaptable enough to coexist well with kids, other animals and roommates.
Yorkies are friendly companions who do not require much exercise beyond regular play sessions in the house or walks around the block. As this breed can sometimes respond with barking to seemingly harmless noises, it is important to train them not to bark immediately at every sound they hear.