Best Dog Breeds for Apartment Living

Last Updated on November 25, 2023

You’ve finally moved into your apartment and there’s a bonus: your landlords allow pets! Now, you can finally have your own dog! But which dog breeds are best for apartment living? We’ve got some great choices for you.

Different dog breeds are better suited for certain conditions. Some prefer cold, some are hypoallergenic and some are great dogs for apartments. Great dogs for apartments include toy breeds such as Yorkies and on up to the gentle giant Great Dane breed. There’s a perfect match for everyone.

There’s no need to feel discouraged because there are masses of dog breeds that are perfect for small spaces like your apartment. From toy breeds to larger dogs, there are still many choices that suit apartment life.

But ideally, it’s best not to have a loud or hyper dog in an apartment. You don’t want to make trouble with the neighbors and let’s be honest, it’s not fair to the dog. So you need a good apartment dog.

Keep reading to learn more about the best dog breeds for apartment living.

Finding the Best Dogs For Apartments

When it comes to finding the perfect dog for your apartment, there may be a few things to look for, including:

Hypoallergenic Or Low-Shedding Coat

One of the biggest reasons why many building owners don’t allow pets in apartments is because of allergies. Hypoallergenic and low shedding dog breeds don’t trigger allergies near as much, if at all. So, landlords may make an exception in this case. Check out this list of the best and worst dog breeds for allergies.

Quieter Personality:

Constant barking is annoying, and your neighbors definitely won’t thank you for it. So, if you’re looking for a good apartment dog, make sure to avoid yappers. Also, if you’re not home all day, make sure to avoid breeds that are prone to separation anxiety.

Lower Energy Level And Exercise Requirements

High energy dogs require more exercise than apartment living can usually allow unless they have ample romp time and walking. However, when a dog is bored, his mind will usually go write to chewing and digging, which can lead to destruction everywhere in your apartment.

However, if you can provide the appropriate amount of exercise for your dog’s energy, you can make it work with your furry best friend even if they have high energy.

Just like all people are different, dogs can be different too. One dog may be hyper while another of the same breed may be super chill. These are simply suggestions based on the most prevalent traits.

Best Dog Breeds for Apartment Living:

As mentioned, the AKC has a huge list of over 40 breeds that are suitable for life in an apartment, but even that can be an overwhelming number when looking for your new roommate.

To help narrow down your search, here are the 10 best dog breeds for apartment living and a little bit about why they’re so perfect for this lifestyle.

1.     Dachshund

Dachshunds don’t require much exercise. Generally, they are very happy little pups that are easy to train and very low maintenance. However – this breed isn’t the most hypoallergenic. They will require regular grooming and house cleaning to contain shedding and dander.

2.     Pug

Pugs are pint-sized pups are known for their flat face and pig-like grunting sounds. They only require daily walks and a proper diet to keep a pug fit, meaning they’re relatively low maintenance which is perfect for apartment living.

3.     French Bulldogs:

Currently one of the most popular breeds, the French Bulldog is a lovable and generally quiet dog. The one problem is that they crave attention, which may be a problem if you work longer hours and there’s no one else at home. If so, provide company by leaving the TV on quietly or by giving your pup lots of toys.

4.     Corgi

Corgis are adorable dogs, even favored by the Queen of England, for their sweet disposition and love for their humans. They require regular exercise to keep fit but are easily groomed and trained to adjust to living in an apartment. 

5.     Basset Hound

Unlike other hounds, the Basset Hound is a low-energy dog breed that prefers to spend its days sleeping on the couch. They’re also quieter than other hounds and require little grooming. If a couch cuddler is what you’re looking for, the basset hound may just be for you. But again, not the most hypoallergenic, so that may be a factor.

6.     English Bulldog

They may be tough looking, but the English Bulldog is generally well-mannered and are pleased with spending the day playing with toys. Beyond a daily walk, they’re pretty low maintenance and are easily trained to be quiet.

7.     Greyhound

With Greyhound racing being so popular at one time, you may be shocked to learn that these slim jims don’t really need more than daily walks and the occasional run. Plus, their coat is very thin, which makes grooming a piece of cake. They are super casual dogs that love to lay around.

8.     Standard Poodle

Even though Standard Poodles require more grooming, they aren’t as high maintenance as you may think. Poodles are loyal dogs that don’t bark as often as others and only require a daily walk for exercise. Toy poodles are also an excellent choice, as they’re smaller and don’t require long walks. In addition, they are also hypoallergenic breeds.

9.     Great Dane

Surprise, surprise! As one of the biggest dogs in the world, it’s ironic to learn that they really don’t need any strenuous exercise. In fact, they’re a pretty lazy dog breed without proper motivation to exercise. They relish their sleeping and lying around. Although they may not be hypoallergenic, they don’t build up as much dander as other breeds. 

10.  Yorkshire Terrier

As a toy breed, these little pups don’t need a whole lot of exercise, but they will need attention and toys. Since they’re companion dogs, they tend to spend most of their time inside with people, which is why they’re so perfect for living in an apartment.

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Hopefully, you’ve found an option to have a furry friend with you while living in an apartment.

Love, food, and shelter – these are the 3 most important things for your dog.

Even though we listed 10 popular choices, there are many other dog breeds that are will thrive in apartments. With proper care, training, and exercise, you can make it work for just about any breed of dog.