Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t have the perfect dog. Some dogs need wide yards, but many thrive in small homes. You just need to find the best dog breeds for apartments. Find a dog that will best match your space, your noise level, and your lifestyle. Ready to meet your perfect apartment pup?
Key Takeaways
- Best apartment breeds include the Shih Tzu, Pug, French Bulldog, and Greyhound
- Dogs best suited for full-time workers or seniors are breeds like the Shih Tzu, French Bulldog, Basset Hound, and Maltese
- Hypoallergenic and low-shedding options are great for cleaner homes and include the Miniature Poodle, Bichon Frise, and Basenji
- A dog’s adaptable personality and energy level matter more than its size when choosing an apartment-friendly pet
- Small breeds ideal for limited space include the Maltese, Havanese, and Yorkshire Terrier
- Larger breeds that do well in apartments include the Greyhound and Basset Hound, due to their calm, low-energy nature
- Easiest breeds to potty train in apartments include the Havanese, Miniature Poodle, and Boston Terrier
- The right dog can live happily without a backyard, as long as it gets regular walks and indoor playtime
The Best Dog Breeds for Apartments: What to Prioritize
To do well in an apartment, a dog needs calm energy, quiet habits, and good indoor manners. The best breeds don’t bark much, don’t require constant activity, and know how to relax in small rooms.
What Makes a Breed Apartment-Friendly?
A breed’s quiet nature, low energy, and good indoor behavior are what make them ideal for apartment living. Some dogs bark at every sound, while others stay relaxed. Breeds that make little noise are helpful if you live close to neighbors. Calm dogs don’t pace or need hours of yard time. Even better, dogs with low-shedding coats mean less cleaning and fewer allergy issues. Now let’s look at some top choices.
Calm Breeds for Cozy Living
- Shih Tzus enjoy naps and cuddles. A short walk is all they need.
- Pugs are laid-back and affectionate. They love soft beds and attention, not marathon runs.
- French Bulldogs enjoy short strolls and spend most of their time resting. They’re quiet too—just mind their breathing in warm rooms.
- Basset Hounds, though heavier, move slowly and love a comfy spot. Their snoring might be louder than their bark!
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are friendly and peaceful. They enjoy staying close and fit well in small homes.
- Greyhounds are large but gentle. A single walk is enough before a long nap. Surprisingly quiet, they are one of the top recommendations.
Low-Barking Dog Breeds for Apartments
Some dogs are especially quiet, even with guests or delivery people coming by. Basenjis don’t bark. They make soft yodel sounds and like mental challenges more than yard time. Havanese are friendly and intelligent. They bark only when something is truly wrong. Boston Terriers may snort a bit, but tend to stay calm and quiet in compact spaces. Choosing the perfect puppy for you is a big decision!
Can Large Dogs Live Happily in Apartments?
Yes. Breeds like Greyhounds and Basset Hounds stay comfortable indoors and don’t need much space. Size alone doesn’t determine a good fit. A small but high-energy dog might be a poor match, while a large, quiet one like a Great Dane can do just fine in a small space.
What Small Dog Breeds for Apartments Are Ideal for Cities?
The best small dog for an apartment depends on a breed’s energy, noise habits, and how much space they need. Affenpinschers, Maltese, and Havanese are great choices that do well with indoor play and short neighborhood walks. The Affenpinscher weighs under 10 pounds and prefers puzzles and calm games over long runs. Maltese dogs adjust well to small homes, and the Havanese is known for being friendly, easy to train, and not prone to barking.
Playful but Compact Dog Breeds for Apartments
The Boston Terrier, Miniature Poodle, and French Bulldog are great options. Boston Terriers are playful and affectionate. Miniature Poodles need stimulation and enjoy learning new commands. French Bulldogs are low-maintenance, requiring just 30 minutes of light exercise daily. The right small dog can bring lasting happiness—just match its energy and social needs to yours.
Hypoallergenic and Low-Shedding Dog Breeds for Apartments
If you have allergies or want less mess, some breeds are better suited for you. Bichon Frises and Miniature Poodles are top recommendations for families with allergy concerns, as their coats hold onto dander. The American Hairless Terrier offers an even better option for those with severe allergies. The Basenji and Boston Terrier have low-shedding coats that are easy to maintain, keeping your space clean.
What Medium or Large Breeds Are Calm Enough for Small Spaces?
Greyhounds, Basset Hounds, and Bulldogs are bigger dogs that handle apartments well. They prefer resting over high-energy play, making them easier to live with in small spots. A Greyhound, for example, is happy with a single walk before napping the rest of the day. A Basset Hound is slow and heavy, but with a soft heart. Bulldogs are compact and calm. You'll find that a dog’s temperament and energy are more important than its size.
How Can Renters Find Dog Breeds for Apartments?
If you’re new to dog ownership and live in an apartment, choose a breed that matches your lifestyle. Adaptability is key. A good dog for small places handles noise, stays calm when alone, and doesn’t bark at every footstep. Havanese and Boston Terriers are great choices because they are smart, easygoing, and eager to please. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are also excellent for first-time owners due to their affectionate and gentle nature.
Great Breeds for Full-Time Workers or Seniors in Apartments
Some breeds adjust well to alone time and don’t need constant supervision. Top choices include the Shih Tzu, French Bulldog, and Basset Hound. These dogs are fine alone for a few hours and happy to nap while you are at work. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Maltese, and Pug are also great choices for people who work from home or are retired, as they enjoy being close to you and adapt to a steady routine.
Are There Dog Breeds For Apartments That Are Good With Children or Other Pets?
Yes. A few dog breeds for apartments stand out for their kindness and patience, even in tight living quarters. Top picks include the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, French Bulldog, Havanese, and Shih Tzu. Each of these breeds tends to get along well with others, making them great family additions.
Dog Breeds for Apartments: Potty Training
In small places, potty habits matter. Fortunately, some breeds learn the rules fastest. Top picks for house training in tight quarters include the Havanese, Miniature Poodles, and Boston Terriers because they are smart, cooperative, and eager to please. Using a dedicated potty area with pads or artificial grass can also make indoor training easier.
How Can Noise-Sensitive Dogs Thrive in Apartment Life?
Apartment sounds include footsteps, sirens, and voices. Some dogs handle that fine, while others bark or tremble. Dogs that take city noise in stride include Basenjis, French Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers. Basenjis don't bark, French Bulldogs rarely react to noise, and Boston Terriers ignore most distractions. Choosing a calm breed and providing daily play can help a dog stay quiet and happy in an apartment.
Puppy Dreams: Your Partner in Finding a Perfect Pup
The best dog breeds for apartments stay calm, need little space, and bark less. You saw how a dog's temperament and energy level are more important than its size. Our team at Puppy Dreams specializes in helping families find the perfect companion that fits both their lifestyle and their home. We work with breeds that are known to be adaptable, gentle, and easy to train, ensuring you find a companion that will bring lasting joy.
Contact us today to find your new best friend and discover how a perfect puppy can make your apartment a happier home.
