20 Best Dog Breeds for Apartment Living: Compact Canines for Small Spaces

Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the companionship of a furry friend. Many dog breeds can thrive in smaller spaces with the right care and attention.

Choosing a suitable breed for apartment living involves considering factors like size, energy levels, and temperament.

This article explores 20 of the best dog breeds well-suited for apartment life. From tiny lap dogs to medium-sized companions, these breeds adapt well to indoor environments and limited outdoor space.

With proper exercise and mental stimulation, these dogs can lead happy, healthy lives in apartments.

1. French Bulldog

French Bulldogs are compact, muscular dogs ideal for apartment living. Their small size and low energy levels make them well-suited to confined spaces.

These dogs typically weigh between 16-28 pounds and stand about 11-13 inches tall. Their short, smooth coat requires minimal grooming, which is beneficial for busy apartment dwellers.

French Bulldogs are known for their friendly and adaptable nature. They generally get along well with other pets and children, making them great family companions.

While they enjoy short walks, French Bulldogs don’t need extensive exercise. This trait is particularly advantageous for apartment residents with limited outdoor space.

These dogs are relatively quiet, rarely barking without reason. This characteristic is appreciated by neighbors in close-quarter living situations.

2. Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers are excellent apartment dogs due to their compact size and adaptable nature. These friendly, intelligent canines typically weigh between 10 to 25 pounds, making them easy to manage in smaller living spaces.

Known for their tuxedo-like coat pattern, Boston Terriers have short, smooth fur that requires minimal grooming. This makes them a low-maintenance option for apartment dwellers with busy schedules.

Boston Terriers are generally quiet and well-behaved indoors, rarely barking excessively. Their moderate energy levels mean they can be content with short walks and indoor playtime, fitting well into apartment lifestyles.

These dogs are affectionate and enjoy human companionship, making them ideal for individuals or families living in apartments. Their sociable nature also helps them adapt well to various living situations and environments.

3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are excellent companions for apartment living. These small dogs typically weigh between 13 to 18 pounds and stand about 12 to 13 inches tall at the shoulder.

Known for their gentle and affectionate nature, Cavaliers adapt well to various living situations. They have a moderate energy level, requiring daily walks and playtime to stay healthy and content.

Cavaliers are generally quiet dogs, making them suitable for apartment environments. Their silky, medium-length coat needs regular brushing to maintain its appearance and prevent matting.

These dogs thrive on human companionship and can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. They get along well with children, other pets, and strangers, making them ideal for social apartment dwellers.

5. Pug

Pugs are charming small dogs that adapt well to apartment living. Their compact size and low exercise needs make them ideal for smaller spaces. These friendly canines typically weigh between 14-18 pounds and stand about 10-13 inches tall.

Pugs have a gentle, affectionate nature and enjoy spending time with their owners. They’re known for their wrinkled faces, expressive eyes, and curly tails. Their short coats require minimal grooming, making them low-maintenance pets.

While Pugs love to play, they don’t need extensive exercise. Short walks and indoor playtime are usually sufficient to keep them happy and healthy. Their calm demeanor and quiet nature make them good neighbors in apartment settings.

Pugs are prone to certain health issues, including breathing difficulties due to their flat faces. They may also struggle in hot weather, so air conditioning is beneficial. Despite these challenges, Pugs remain popular apartment dogs due to their lovable personalities and adaptability.

6. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are excellent apartment dogs due to their small size and adaptable nature. These charming canines typically weigh between 9 and 16 pounds, making them ideal for compact living spaces.

Shih Tzus have a gentle and affectionate temperament, often forming strong bonds with their owners. They are known for their friendly disposition towards both adults and children, making them great family pets.

Despite their small stature, Shih Tzus are surprisingly sturdy and resilient. They require moderate exercise, which can be easily achieved through indoor play and short walks around the neighborhood.

This breed’s long, silky coat does require regular grooming to maintain its appearance and prevent matting. However, Shih Tzus shed minimally, which is beneficial for keeping apartments clean.

Shih Tzus are generally quiet dogs, rarely barking excessively. This trait makes them well-suited for apartment living where noise levels are a consideration.

7. Havanese

The Havanese is an excellent choice for apartment living. These small, sturdy dogs typically weigh between 7 and 13 pounds, making them perfect for compact spaces.

Havanese are known for their friendly and sociable nature. They form strong bonds with their owners and get along well with children and other pets.

These dogs have a low-shedding coat that comes in various colors and patterns. Regular grooming is necessary to keep their silky hair tangle-free and healthy.

Havanese are intelligent and highly trainable. They excel in obedience and agility training, which can be particularly beneficial in an apartment setting.

While energetic, Havanese don’t require extensive exercise. Daily walks and indoor play sessions are usually sufficient to keep them happy and healthy in an apartment environment.

8. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is an excellent choice for apartment living. These small, fluffy dogs typically weigh between 10-20 pounds and stand about 9-11 inches tall at the shoulder.

Bichons are known for their cheerful and affectionate personalities. They are social creatures that thrive on human companionship and adapt well to various living situations.

These dogs have a low-shedding coat, making them a good option for those with mild allergies. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their signature white, cotton-ball appearance.

Bichon Frises are generally quiet and well-behaved indoors. They have moderate energy levels and can get sufficient exercise with daily walks and indoor play sessions.

Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them highly trainable. Bichons often excel in obedience and agility activities, providing mental stimulation in compact spaces.

9. Scottish Terrier

Scottish Terriers are compact, sturdy dogs well-suited for apartment living. These independent and confident canines typically weigh between 18 to 22 pounds and stand about 10 inches tall at the shoulder.

Known for their distinctive bearded face and erect ears, Scottish Terriers have a bold personality that fits well in small spaces. They require moderate exercise, making them suitable for urban environments with limited outdoor areas.

Scottish Terriers are loyal to their families and can be protective, which makes them excellent watchdogs. Their short legs and small size allow them to navigate apartments easily without bumping into furniture or knocking things over.

While they have a strong-willed nature, Scottish Terriers can adapt well to apartment life with proper training and socialization. Their low-shedding coat requires regular grooming to maintain its characteristic appearance.

10. Maltese

The Maltese is an excellent choice for apartment living. These small, elegant dogs typically weigh less than 7 pounds and stand about 7-9 inches tall at the shoulder.

Maltese are known for their long, silky white coats that require regular grooming. Despite their luxurious appearance, they shed minimally, making them a good option for those with allergies.

These dogs are energetic and playful but don’t need extensive exercise. Short walks and indoor play sessions usually suffice to keep them happy and healthy in an apartment setting.

Maltese are affectionate and bond closely with their owners. They tend to be good with children and other pets when properly socialized.

While generally quiet, Maltese can be prone to barking if not trained early. They’re intelligent and responsive to training, making them adaptable to apartment rules and routines.

11. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers, often called Yorkies, are excellent apartment dogs due to their small size and adaptable nature. These compact canines typically weigh between 4 to 7 pounds and stand about 7 to 8 inches tall at the shoulder.

Yorkies have a big personality in a tiny package. They are known for their confident and feisty attitude, often unaware of their diminutive stature. These dogs are intelligent and quick learners, making them relatively easy to train.

Despite their small size, Yorkies are energetic and require regular exercise. Daily walks and indoor play sessions can usually meet their activity needs. Their exercise requirements are easily fulfilled within an apartment setting.

Yorkshire Terriers have a long, silky coat that requires regular grooming. Regular brushing and occasional professional grooming help maintain their coat’s health and appearance. Yorkies are also known to be low-shedding, which can be beneficial for apartment dwellers.

12. Pomeranian

Pomeranians are tiny, fluffy dogs that make excellent apartment companions. Weighing between 3-7 pounds, these miniature spitz-type canines fit comfortably in small living spaces.

Known for their fox-like faces and plumed tails, Pomeranians have vibrant personalities that belie their small stature. They are alert, intelligent, and often behave like much larger dogs.

Pomeranians require minimal exercise, making them well-suited for apartment life. Short daily walks and indoor playtime typically suffice to keep them healthy and content.

These dogs adapt well to various living situations and are generally quiet, though they may bark at unfamiliar sounds. Early training can help manage any excessive barking tendencies.

Pomeranians have a thick double coat that sheds seasonally. Regular brushing is necessary to maintain their fluffy appearance and minimize loose hair in the apartment.

13. Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are tiny dogs with big personalities, making them excellent companions for apartment living. These pint-sized pooches typically weigh between 2 and 6 pounds, allowing them to comfortably navigate small spaces.

Their compact size means they require minimal exercise, which can be easily managed within an apartment setting. A few short walks or indoor play sessions are usually sufficient to keep a Chihuahua happy and healthy.

Chihuahuas are known for their loyalty and often form strong bonds with their owners. They can be protective and may bark at unfamiliar noises, potentially serving as miniature watchdogs for apartment dwellers.

These dogs are generally low-maintenance in terms of grooming. Short-haired varieties require minimal brushing, while long-haired Chihuahuas may need slightly more attention to their coats.

Chihuahuas have a relatively long lifespan, often living 12 to 20 years. This longevity makes them reliable companions for those seeking a long-term pet commitment in an apartment setting.

14. Italian Greyhound

Italian Greyhounds are small, elegant dogs well-suited for apartment living. These graceful canines typically weigh between 7 and 14 pounds, making them easy to manage in compact spaces.

Known for their affectionate nature, Italian Greyhounds form strong bonds with their owners. They adapt well to indoor environments and require moderate exercise, which can be satisfied with daily walks and playtime.

Italian Greyhounds have short, smooth coats that shed minimally, reducing maintenance needs. Their quiet demeanor makes them ideal for apartments with noise restrictions.

These dogs are sensitive to cold and may need extra warmth during winter months. Italian Greyhounds are generally healthy but can be prone to dental issues, so regular teeth cleaning is important.

With proper care and attention, Italian Greyhounds make loving and low-maintenance companions for apartment dwellers.

15. Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzers are excellent apartment dogs due to their compact size and adaptable nature. These intelligent and energetic pups typically weigh between 11 to 20 pounds and stand about 12 to 14 inches tall.

Their small stature makes them well-suited for limited living spaces. Miniature Schnauzers are known for their lively personalities and love of play, which can be satisfied with indoor games and short walks.

These dogs have a low-shedding coat that requires regular grooming. Their beard and eyebrows give them a distinctive, charming appearance that many find endearing.

Miniature Schnauzers are alert and make good watchdogs, often barking to announce visitors. With proper training, they can learn to control excessive barking, making them more suitable for apartment living.

These dogs are generally friendly and get along well with children and other pets. Their affectionate nature makes them great companions for individuals or families in small living spaces.

16. Lhasa Apso

Lhasa Apsos are small, sturdy dogs well-suited for apartment living. Their compact size allows them to thrive in limited spaces, making them ideal for urban dwellers.

These dogs have a long, flowing coat that requires regular grooming. Despite their small stature, Lhasa Apsos possess a confident and independent nature.

They are known for their alertness and make excellent watchdogs. Lhasa Apsos often form strong bonds with their owners and can be protective of their families.

These dogs have moderate exercise needs, which can be met with daily walks and indoor play sessions. Their adaptable nature allows them to adjust well to apartment life.

Lhasa Apsos are generally quiet, which is beneficial for those living in close quarters with neighbors. Their calm demeanor makes them suitable companions for various lifestyles.

17. Brussels Griffon

The Brussels Griffon is a charming small breed that adapts well to apartment living. These dogs typically weigh between 8 to 10 pounds and stand about 7 to 10 inches tall, making them ideal for compact spaces.

Brussels Griffons are known for their expressive, almost human-like faces and affectionate personalities. They form strong bonds with their owners and enjoy being close companions.

Despite their small size, Brussels Griffons have a confident and spirited nature. They require moderate exercise, which can be easily met with daily walks and indoor play sessions.

This breed is generally quiet, making them good neighbors in apartment settings. Their short coat requires minimal grooming, which is beneficial for busy apartment dwellers.

Brussels Griffons are intelligent and respond well to training. They can be somewhat stubborn at times, so consistent, positive reinforcement methods work best with this breed.

18. Coton de Tulear

The Coton de Tulear is an excellent choice for apartment living. These small, fluffy dogs typically weigh between 8 and 15 pounds, making them ideal for compact spaces.

Cotons are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They form strong bonds with their owners and enjoy being close to their human companions.

These dogs have a low-shedding coat, which is beneficial for allergy sufferers and those who prefer minimal hair cleanup. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their soft, cotton-like fur.

Coton de Tulears are generally quiet and well-behaved indoors. They adapt well to different living situations and don’t require excessive exercise, making them suitable for less active owners.

These intelligent dogs are easy to train and often excel in obedience and agility activities. Their playful nature and charming personality make them delightful companions for apartment dwellers.

19. Papillon

Papillons are charming and adaptable small dogs well-suited for apartment living. Their compact size and minimal exercise needs make them ideal for confined spaces.

These intelligent canines are known for their distinctive butterfly-like ears, which give them their name. Papillons are energetic and playful, but they can easily burn off energy indoors with interactive toys and games.

Papillons are generally quiet and don’t bark excessively, making them good neighbors in apartment settings. They are also highly trainable and eager to please their owners.

Despite their small size, Papillons are confident and sociable. They enjoy meeting new people and can adapt well to various living situations. Their low-shedding coat requires regular brushing but is relatively easy to maintain.

20. Japanese Chin

The Japanese Chin is a small, elegant breed well-suited for apartment living. These dogs typically weigh between 4 to 9 pounds and stand about 8 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder.

Japanese Chins are known for their calm and gentle nature. They adapt easily to indoor environments and don’t require extensive exercise, making them ideal for smaller living spaces.

These dogs have a distinctive flat face and large, expressive eyes. Their coat is silky and requires regular brushing to maintain its appearance.

Japanese Chins are intelligent and relatively easy to train. They often form strong bonds with their owners and enjoy being lap dogs.

While generally quiet, Japanese Chins can be alert and may bark to announce visitors. They tend to get along well with other pets and are good companions for seniors or individuals living alone in apartments.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dog Breed for Apartment Living

Selecting the right dog breed for apartment living requires careful consideration of several key factors. These include the dog’s size, energy levels, and temperament, which all play crucial roles in determining compatibility with smaller living spaces.

Size and Space Requirements

Small to medium-sized breeds typically adapt better to apartment living. Compact dogs like Chihuahuas, French Bulldogs, and Pugs require less space and are easier to manage in tight quarters.

Larger breeds can still thrive in apartments if they have low energy levels. Great Danes and Greyhounds, despite their size, can be suitable apartment dogs due to their calm nature.

Consider the layout of your apartment when choosing a breed. Ensure there’s enough room for the dog to move comfortably and have a designated sleeping area.

Energy Levels and Exercise Needs

High-energy breeds may struggle in apartments without adequate exercise. Breeds like Border Collies and Australian Shepherds need extensive daily activity, which can be challenging in urban settings.

Low to moderate energy breeds are often better suited for apartment living. Bulldogs, Basset Hounds, and Shih Tzus adapt well to indoor environments and require less exercise.

Regular walks and playtime are essential for all dogs, regardless of breed. Proximity to parks or dog-friendly areas can help meet exercise needs for apartment-dwelling pups.

Noise and Temperament

Vocal breeds may not be ideal for apartments with thin walls or noise restrictions. Beagles and Terriers are known for their tendency to bark, which could disturb neighbors.

Calm and quiet breeds like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Greyhounds are often better choices for apartment living.

Consider a dog’s temperament when living in close quarters with others. Friendly, sociable breeds adapt well to frequent encounters with neighbors and other dogs in common areas.

Breeds with low prey drives are preferable in apartments, as they’re less likely to react to noises or movements outside windows or in hallways.

Training and Socialization Tips for Apartment Dogs

Proper training and socialization are essential for dogs living in apartments. These techniques help create well-behaved companions that adapt smoothly to confined spaces and close proximity to neighbors.

Housebreaking Techniques

Consistency is key when housebreaking an apartment dog. Establish a regular schedule for feeding and bathroom breaks. Take your dog out first thing in the morning, after meals, and before bedtime.

Use positive reinforcement by praising and rewarding your dog immediately after they eliminate outside. This reinforces the desired behavior.

For indoor accidents, avoid punishment. Clean thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to remove odors that might attract repeat incidents.

Consider using puppy pads or artificial grass patches on balconies for times when outdoor access is limited. Gradually transition to outdoor-only elimination as your dog learns.

Crate Training Methods

Introduce the crate as a positive space by placing treats and toys inside. Start with short periods and gradually increase crate time.

Never use the crate as punishment. It should be a safe, comfortable den for your dog.

Place the crate in a quiet area of your apartment. Cover it with a blanket to create a cozy atmosphere.

Feed meals in the crate to build positive associations. Provide durable chew toys for entertainment during crate time.

Practice crating when you’re home to prevent separation anxiety. This helps your dog see the crate as a normal part of daily life.

Socialization Strategies

Expose your apartment dog to various people, animals, and environments from an early age. This builds confidence and reduces anxiety in new situations.

Organize playdates with other well-behaved dogs in your building or nearby parks. Supervise interactions to ensure positive experiences.

Use treats to create positive associations with new stimuli like elevators, busy streets, or delivery personnel.

Enroll in group obedience classes to improve social skills and reinforce training in distracting environments.

Practice calm greetings with visitors to prevent jumping or excessive barking. Reward quiet, composed behavior to encourage apartment-friendly manners.

Essential Equipment for Apartment Dogs

Apartment dogs require specific gear to thrive in smaller living spaces. A comfortable bed provides a cozy spot for rest and relaxation. Choose a size appropriate for your dog and the available space.

A secure crate offers a safe haven and aids in potty training. Select one that allows your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Leashes and harnesses are crucial for daily walks. Opt for sturdy, adjustable options that ensure control and safety during outings.

Food and water bowls should be non-slip and easy to clean. Consider elevated feeders for larger breeds to promote better posture during meals.

Interactive toys keep dogs mentally stimulated in confined spaces. Puzzle feeders, chew toys, and treat-dispensing balls are excellent choices.

Grooming supplies help maintain cleanliness in close quarters. Brushes, nail clippers, and pet-safe shampoos are essential for regular care.

Waste management tools are vital for apartment living. Stock up on poop bags, indoor potty pads, and odor neutralizers to keep your home fresh.

A pet first aid kit ensures preparedness for minor emergencies. Include items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers.