Best Dogs for Apartments: 7 Breeds That Thrive Indoors
Choosing the right dog for apartment living? These 7 breeds adapt well to small spaces, have lower energy needs, and are neighbor-friendly.
Living Small with a Dog
Apartment living doesn't disqualify you from dog ownership — but it does mean choosing carefully. The ideal apartment dog isn't necessarily small; it's calm, quiet, and content with indoor life.
Top 7 Apartment-Friendly Breeds
1. French Bulldog
Low energy, minimal barking, and under 28 pounds. Frenchies are arguably the best apartment breed. They need short walks (15-20 minutes, twice daily) and are happy to lounge the rest of the day.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Gentle, adaptable, and under 18 pounds. Cavaliers are lap dogs in the truest sense — they want to be near you, not running laps around the block.
3. Greyhound
Surprisingly, retired racing Greyhounds are excellent apartment dogs. They're couch potatoes who sprint for 10 minutes and sleep for 18 hours. The catch: they need a secure, fenced area for those sprints.
4. Basset Hound
Low energy and famously chill. The downside: they can be vocal (that distinctive bay carries through walls). Train early to manage barking.
5. Pug
Compact, affectionate, and content with moderate exercise. Pugs are ideal for first-time apartment owners. Watch for breathing issues in hot weather.
6. Boston Terrier
Small, quiet, and adaptable. Boston Terriers are nicknamed "the American Gentleman" for their tuxedo markings and well-mannered temperament.
7. Shih Tzu
Bred as companion dogs for Chinese royalty, Shih Tzus need minimal exercise and are famously quiet. Perfect for thin-walled apartments.
Key Factors for Apartment Dogs
- Barking level: Will neighbors complain?
- Exercise needs: Can you meet them without a yard?
- Size: Is there enough floor space?
- Temperament: Can they handle elevator rides and hallway encounters?
Jonas Cole
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
