The Top 5 Dog Breeds for Apartment Living

The Top 5 Dog Breeds for Apartment Living: Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the joy of having a dog. Many breeds thrive in smaller living spaces, provided they receive adequate exercise, mental stimulation, and affection. The key is to choose a breed whose temperament, size, energy level, and grooming needs align with apartment living.

In this guide, we highlight the top 5 dog breeds that make fantastic apartment companions in 2025. Whether you’re in a studio high-rise in Manhattan or a cozy loft in San Francisco, these breeds will adapt beautifully to your lifestyle.

What Makes a Dog Apartment-Friendly?

Before diving into the list, let’s define the qualities that make a dog suitable for apartment life:

• Size: Smaller dogs are easier to manage in tight spaces, but size isn’t the only factor.
• Energy Level: Low-to-moderate energy dogs adapt better to indoor environments.
• Noise Level: Quiet dogs are preferred to avoid disturbing neighbors.
• Trainability: A dog that’s easy to train and housebreak is essential for apartment dwellers.
• Sociability: Dogs that are well-mannered with people and other pets reduce the risk of conflict in communal spaces.

Top 5 Dog Breeds for Apartment Living

1. French Bulldog

Size: Small (16–28 lbs)
Energy: Low to moderate
Grooming: Low
Noise Level: Low
Lifespan: 10–12 years

Why they’re perfect:
French Bulldogs are one of the most popular apartment breeds worldwide. They’re small, adaptable, and relatively quiet — making them perfect for close living quarters. With a gentle, affectionate temperament, they bond closely with their humans and don’t require long walks or excessive exercise.

Pros:

• Minimal barking
• Don’t need much space
• Excellent with families and singles

Considerations:

• Prone to breathing issues (brachycephalic)
• Sensitive to heat

Best for: First-time dog owners, busy professionals, and small households.

2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Size: Small (13–18 lbs)
Energy: Moderate
Grooming: Medium (regular brushing)
Noise Level: Moderate
Lifespan: 12–15 years

Why they’re perfect:
Cavaliers are gentle, friendly, and wonderfully adaptable. They enjoy cuddling on the couch just as much as a brisk walk around the block. Their calm demeanor and low aggression make them ideal for apartment life, especially for households with children or other pets.

Pros:

• Friendly and affectionate
• Easily trainable
• Compact and quiet indoors

Considerations:

• Prone to heart and ear health issues
• Needs regular grooming

Best for: Families, retirees, or apartment dwellers who want a companionable lap dog.

3. Boston Terrier

Size: Small to medium (12–25 lbs)
Energy: Moderate
Grooming: Low
Noise Level: Low to moderate
Lifespan: 11–15 years

Why they’re perfect:
Boston Terriers are smart, sociable, and easy to manage in urban environments. Their compact size, playful energy, and low grooming needs make them ideal city dogs. They’re alert without being overly yappy, and they love companionship.

Pros:

• Great sense of humor and personality
• Good with kids and guests
• Low-maintenance grooming

Considerations:

• May snore or wheeze due to short snout
• Needs early socialization

Best for: Active singles or couples who want a fun, loving, but low-fuss dog.

4. Havanese

Size: Small (7–13 lbs)
Energy: Moderate
Grooming: High (daily brushing or short haircuts)
Noise Level: Moderate
Lifespan: 14–16 years

Why they’re perfect:
The Havanese is the ultimate Velcro dog — loyal, people-oriented, and happiest by your side. These cheerful pups adapt well to apartment living as long as they’re not left alone for too long. They don’t shed much but do require grooming.

Pros:

• Excellent lap dogs
• Hypoallergenic coat (great for allergy sufferers)
• Friendly with strangers and pets

Considerations:

• Prone to separation anxiety
• High grooming demands

Best for: Work-from-home individuals or anyone seeking a cuddly companion.

5. Greyhound (Yes, Really!)

Size: Large (60–70 lbs)
Energy: Low
Grooming: Low
Noise Level: Very low
Lifespan: 10–14 years

Why they’re perfect:
It may come as a surprise, but retired racing greyhounds make fantastic apartment dogs. Despite their size, they are quiet, gentle, and incredibly lazy indoors. A short daily walk and a cozy couch are all they need to be happy.

Pros:

• Calm and quiet indoors
• Low grooming needs
• Excellent temperament

Considerations:

• Needs a bit more floor space than smaller breeds
• May need stairs training and leash adjustment

Best for: Laid-back individuals or couples who want a chill, elegant dog.

READ ALSO: How to Train Your Cat to Stop Scratching You

 Bonus Breeds to Consider

• Shih Tzu: Affectionate and apartment-sized, though grooming-intensive.
• Miniature Dachshund: Compact and full of personality.
• Pug: Lovable and entertaining, though prone to health issues.
• Yorkshire Terrier: Small, trainable, and spirited (may bark more).
• Cocker Spaniel: Sweet-natured and social, with moderate grooming needs.

Apartment Living Tips for Dog Owners

No matter the breed, setting up your apartment for dog success is crucial:

 Daily Exercise

• Short, frequent walks are key — even for low-energy dogs.
• Consider nearby parks or dog-friendly rooftop patios.

 Mental Stimulation

• Use puzzle feeders, treat toys, or rotate toys weekly.
• Teach new commands or tricks to keep their minds sharp.

 Potty Training Solutions

• For small breeds or high-rises, puppy pads or balcony potty patches may help.
• Stick to a strict routine to encourage outdoor bathroom use.

Socialization

• Expose your dog to elevators, neighbors, and other pets gradually.
• Attend puppy playdates or dog-friendly cafés for stimulation.

Noise Control

• Soundproof your apartment (e.g., rugs, curtains).
• Reward quiet behavior and avoid shouting when correcting barking.

FAQs

Is it cruel to keep a dog in an apartment?

Not at all! Many breeds adapt wonderfully to apartments if their physical and mental needs are met. Daily walks, play, and love matter more than square footage.

Can big dogs live in small apartments?

Yes — especially calm, low-energy breeds like Greyhounds, Great Danes, or Bernese Mountain Dogs. Focus on temperament more than size.

How do I stop my apartment dog from barking?

Train using positive reinforcement. Provide distractions, teach the “quiet” command, and avoid triggers when possible. Dogs bark more when bored or anxious.

What if I work long hours?

Hire a dog walker, enroll your pup in doggy daycare a few days a week, or set up a pet camera for check-ins. Some breeds are more independent (like Greyhounds), but others may struggle with loneliness.

Are there dog-friendly apartment policies in 2025?

Yes! Many complexes now offer pet-friendly leases, dog runs, pet spas, and even in-building dog sitters. Always check breed restrictions and deposit requirements.

Should I adopt or shop?

Adoption is a great way to give a loving home to a pet in need — especially with breed-specific rescues (like Greyhound rescues). However, reputable breeders also ensure healthy, well-tempered puppies.