Skip to main content

6 best dog breeds for apartment living

If you live in an apartment and plan to get a dog, size matters. Many landlords don’t allow large breeds because they fear the dogs won’t be happy living in a small space and may cause damage. Also, property managers worry about the dangers larger dogs might pose to other residents. But size isn’t the only consideration when choosing an apartment dog. You want to look for a breed not known for incessant barking or prone to separation anxiety that could lead to destructive behavior. Whichever breed you choose to share your apartment, remember that all dogs enjoy daily walks, with some needing more exercise than others. Following are six dog breeds who don’t need a lot of space.

Bichon frise

The Bichon Frise Club of America describes these dogs as fun-loving “small white sturdy powder puffs.” These dogs love people and are gentle and affectionate, making them a great choice for living in an apartment complex. Bichons are nonshedding, and many people with allergies find it easy to live with this breed. A monthly visit to a professional groomer for a bath and haircut will keep these dogs happy and healthy.

Related Videos
Close up of a Cavalier King Charles spaniel.

Cavalier King Charles spaniel

In dog-fancy circles, this breed is referred to as a “comforter” spaniel. According to the American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club, these dogs were never bred to be anything other than a small, beloved, gentle lapdog. That makes them an excellent companion when living in a small space. They are friendly pups who get along with people of all ages and other dogs. This spaniel’s beautiful silky coat can be kept healthy with regular brushing and an occasional bath.

Shih tzu

Being cute is what these little dogs do best. They were bred to serve as royal lapdogs and that makes them a perfect fit for living in apartments. A shih tzu’s coat should be brushed a few times a week, and a bath every three to four weeks will keep the coat and skin healthy. The long hair on top of his head should be trimmed short or tied up into a topknot to prevent eye irritation. Many pet parents opt for less coat maintenance by having a professional groomer clip the coat into a puppy trim.

Shiba inu

These dogs originated in Japan, where they were bred to flush birds and small game. Now, they are primarily kept as pets both in Japan and the U.S. According to the National Shiba Club of America, there are more shiba inus in Japan than any other dog breed. While they do have an independent streak, they make loyal companions. These foxlike dogs are great for apartment living because they are relatively quiet, easy to housebreak, like to keep themselves clean, and will be polite to neighbors if properly socialized. Their beautiful coats need to be brushed only once or twice a month except during spring and fall shedding season, when they need to be brushed daily to remove loose hair.

Soft-coated wheaten terrier

These dogs were bred to work on farms and as family companions in their native Ireland. They are known for their soft, silky coats and happy-go-lucky personalities. According to the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Club of America, these dogs can adapt to life in the country or the city if they get enough daily exercise. Breed experts recommend waiting until children are older to bring home a wheaten. These terriers will bark to alert the family when a stranger approaches but are generally quieter than smaller terriers, making them perfect for apartment living. Regular trips to the groomer for a bath and trim along with daily brushing at home will help avoid matting and keep this terrier’s coat healthy.

Woman kissing a Boston terrier on the couch.

Boston terrier

According to the Boston Terrier Club of America, this breed excels at being their person’s “best friend.” They are great all-around dogs — happy to be a child’s playmate or a lapdog for a senior pet parent. Bred as companion dogs, these terriers love to hang out with their family. Because of this pup’s impeccable manners, American Kennel Club experts say Bostons have earned the nickname “The American Gentleman.” They are quiet and eager to learn and can live happily in an apartment environment.

Remember that as a pet parent who also happens to be a tenant, it’s your responsibility to obey the rules. That includes always picking up after your dog does his business and making sure he is polite around people and other dogs. In no time at all, you’ll be making lots of new friends as you walk around the neighborhood with your well-mannered roommate.

Editors' Recommendations

Can huskies be aggressive? It depends on the circumstances
Huskies can be hyperactive, but are they aggressive? Experts weigh in
A blue-eyed Siberian husky puppy sitting on grass

With their luxurious coats and striking blue eyes, huskies are an immediately recognizable breed. Given their size and stubborn personalities, many prospective husky parents wonder, "Are huskies aggressive?" According to the American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standard, "The characteristic temperament of the Siberian husky is friendly and gentle [...] he does not display the possessive qualities of the guard dog, nor is he overly suspicious of strangers or aggressive with other dogs."

That being said, just because the AKC breed standard claims huskies aren't an aggressive breed doesn't mean they can't become aggressive in certain circumstances. We'll go over the different types of aggression in dogs, how to deal with your pup if he becomes aggressive, and -- most importantly -- we'll walk you through the warning signs of aggression, so you can nip it in the bud before it starts.

Read more
New Year’s resolutions that can make you a better pet parent in 2023
5 ways you can become the best pet parent this year
A woman strokes a blue-eyed white dog while outside

We all kick off the new year with resolutions, but for pet lovers, the goal to be a better pet parent is a resolution worth keeping. From teaching your fur babies to get along to helping your cat kick a treat addiction, there are plenty of things we can do to improve our four-legged friends' quality of life. We'll take a deep dive into the top New Year's resolutions pet parents should make to ensure their furry companions stay happy and healthy throughout 2023.

How to set a New Year's resolution you'll keep
We all start off the new year with the best of intentions, vowing to eat healthier, get more exercise, and spend less time doomscrolling on social media. However, by the end of January, the vast majority of people have already started to backslide -- or have given up on their resolutions altogether. But when you're setting resolutions with your fur babies in mind, keeping them is more important than ever. Try:

Read more
How cold is too cold for dogs? What you should know
Signs that your dog is too cold in the outdoor winter conditions
An Australian shepherd playing outside in the snow

Your dog is more than just your constant companion; he's also a beloved member of the family. No matter the season, frequent exercise, a well-balanced diet, and outdoor playtime are essential to your dog's health and happiness.

Not only does exercise prevent obesity, but it also provides the mental stimulation your pup needs to lower the risk of mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. We're all aware of the potential dangers of overheating, but what should we do when temperatures drop? At what point is taking your pup outside for a walk more harmful than helpful? How cold is too cold for dogs?

Read more