7 Best Large Dog Breeds For Apartments

Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the companionship of a large dog. Surprisingly adaptable, several large dog breeds can thrive in compact living spaces, embracing the coziness and forming close bonds with their owners. From the gentle giant nature of the Great Dane to the calm demeanor of the Greyhound, these big-hearted breeds defy the stereotype that large dogs require expansive backyards. In this exploration of the seven best large dog breeds for apartment living, we delve into their unique traits and needs, proving that size doesn’t always dictate suitability for urban environments.

When you think of large dogs, what comes to mind? A hulking ball of fur that needs a sprawling mansion to roam in, right? While it’s true that some of the biggest dog breeds need plenty of space to stretch their paws, don’t let that deter you if you live in an apartment! It turns out that several large breed dogs can thrive in smaller spaces, provided they get the right amount of workout, attention, and love.

Apartment living with a big dog might seem like a stretch, but trust me, these breeds are absolute champions when it comes to adjusting to a cozy, indoor lifestyle. You’ll find that while they might take up a bit more space on the couch (and maybe even in your bed), their laid-back attitudes, friendly dispositions, and low-maintenance needs make them surprisingly perfect companions for apartment dwellers.

So, don’t count out a big dog just because you’re living in an urban jungle or a tiny one-bedroom flat. In fact, let’s look at some of the best large dog breeds that could turn your apartment into their personal paradise. Ready to meet these big, snuggly, and surprisingly apartment-friendly pups?

Best Large Dog Breeds for Apartments

1. Greyhound

Greyhound

Let’s kick things off with the Greyhound, a dog that might make you think “racing track,” but don’t be fooled—this dog is surprisingly well-suited for apartment life! They might be the fastest dogs on the planet, but ironically, they’re also one of the chillest breeds for indoor living.

Despite their reputation for running at lightning speed, they are known for being couch potatoes at heart. PetMD says they are pretty lazy! After a good sprint around the park, they’re more than content to curl up and snooze for hours. Their sleek bodies occupy less space than expected, and their calm, quiet nature makes them excellent apartment dogs.

Many dogs have been rescued from racetracks and easily adapted to apartment living. Their low-maintenance grooming needs, moderate exercise requirements, and quiet demeanor make them a perfect fit for urban dwellers.

So, don’t be put off by their racing past—these dogs are all about lounging, not zooming through your apartment at full speed!

2. Great Dane

Great Dane

Great Danes are big. Like, really big.

But don’t let their towering presence fool you—they are as gentle as they come and surprisingly, they make amazing apartment dogs. As this dog’s age goes up, so does the calmness in its nature.

Great Danes are known for their affectionate, low-key personalities. They’re often called “gentle giants” because they are friendly, loving, and good with families. While they may need a bit of space to spread out (a dog bed the size of a queen mattress will do), they are generally content to curl up and snooze for the majority of the day. These dogs are huge fans of lounging, making them perfect companions for apartment dwellers who enjoy a quieter lifestyle.

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Take it from real-world examples: many Great Dane owners living in apartments swear by their dogs’ ability to adapt to smaller spaces. They’re more than happy to go for a walk, but they’re just as content to lounge around the apartment and keep their owners company. So, don’t think living with this dog will be challenging as it is gonna be full of fun!

3. Mastiff

Mastiff

Next up, we’ve got the Mastiff, a dog so big and imposing it could look like a living room fixture.

But despite their enormous size, Mastiffs are surprisingly well-suited for apartment life, especially when you take into account their calm and laid-back demeanor.

Mastiffs are giants with hearts of gold—they’re affectionate, loyal, and have a low energy level, making them perfect for apartment living. They don’t need tons of workout sessions, but they do appreciate a daily walk or two.

The best part?

They love to nap. A lot.

So, if you’re looking for a good home dog that won’t demand a ton of space or energy from you, the Mastiff fits the bill perfectly. They’re happy to curl up on their bed (which, let’s face it, might take up half the apartment) and watch TV with you.

Mastiffs, with proper training, are also fantastically protective of their families, so you’ll feel secure knowing that this giant teddy bear is keeping an eye on the apartment while you’re out and about.

4. Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dog

Now, let’s talk about the Bernese Mountain Dog—the fluffy, friendly giant animal. Though they were originally bred for work in the Swiss Alps, they are surprisingly adaptable to apartment life.

What makes them perfect for smaller living spaces is their easygoing nature, as Omlet claims.

Despite their size, they’re not overly active indoors. They enjoy daily walks and outdoor play, but they’re equally happy lounging around and soaking up all the attention you can give them. Their calm temperament and love of companionship make them ideal for apartment dwellers who want a big, snuggly dog without worrying about excessive energy levels or destructive behavior.

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These dogs love curling up on a couch or beside their owners on the floor, turning any apartment into a cozy haven. Just make sure you’ve got room for all that fluffy goodness before adopting one!

5. Clumber Spaniel

Clumber Spaniel

If you’re looking for a large dog that’s adorable and surprisingly well-suited to apartment life, meet the Clumber Spaniel. These dogs may not be as well-known as some other breeds on this list, but they’re perfect for apartments due to their mellow temperament and moderate size. As per Orvis, they are amiable and tolerant.

Despite their low-key, laid-back nature, Clumber Spaniels are surprisingly hearty dogs, initially bred for hunting. But don’t worry—they won’t be tearing around your apartment with a bunch of energy. Instead, they enjoy lounging, relaxing, and having quality cuddle time with their owners.

Real-world experience from Clumber Spaniel owners shows that they thrive in smaller spaces, provided they exercise regularly to keep them healthy and happy. They’re also friendly and good with families, making them a great choice for people looking for a loyal, affectionate companion without needing a mansion to roam in.

6. Bulldog

Bulldog

Ah, the Bulldog. Small in stature but with a big personality and an even bigger heart. Bulldogs may not be “large” by some standards, but their solid, muscular build and slightly stocky appearance earn them a place on our list. These dogs are perfect for apartments, and here’s why: they’re easygoing, low-energy, and incredibly loyal.

Despite their strong build, Bulldogs don’t need a lot of space to be happy. A couple of daily walks and some playtime will do, and the rest of the time, they’re more than happy to chill out on the couch or at your feet. Their calm demeanor makes them a great choice for apartment dwellers who want a dog that isn’t constantly bouncing off the walls.

Bulldog owners often rave about how content their dogs are in small spaces. They’re perfectly fine lounging around all day—just don’t expect them to win any races.

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Just be a bit careful as they have a short muzzle, which can cause health problems like brachycephalic syndrome.

7. Newfoundland

Newfoundland

Last but not least, we have Newfoundland, another giant that defies expectations regarding apartment living.

Yes, this breed is massive, but their sweet, laid-back nature makes them surprisingly apt for smaller living environments. Think of them as the gentle giants of the dog world—big, fluffy, and always ready for a hug. AKC praises their patience and devotion!

Newfoundlands have a calm, easygoing temperament that makes them a good match for those looking for indoor companions. While they require regular outdoor exercise and long walks, they’re generally happy lounging around inside, taking up half the couch and still looking like the most lovable teddy bear in the room.

These dogs do incredibly well in smaller spaces when provided with enough exercise and love. If you’re looking for a giant-sized cuddle buddy, this breed is as big in heart as they are in size.

Conclusion

Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the joy of having a large dog! Whether you’re drawn to the gentle nature of a Great Dane, the laid-back attitude of a Mastiff, or the adorable cuddliness of a Bulldog, there’s a large breed out there that can easily adapt to your apartment lifestyle. Apart from these breeds, Basset Hound, Golden Retriever and German Shepherd are also some big dogs that can live with you in a limited space; just take them regularly to the dog parks for some fresh air!

Each of these breeds brings its own unique traits, from easygoing dispositions to low-energy needs, making them perfect companions for those who want to live with a giant furry friend. With the right balance of exercise, mental stimulation, and love, your large dog can thrive in an apartment just as well as in a mansion.

So, go ahead—bring home that big dog you’ve always dreamed.

In conclusion, while living in an apartment with a large dog may initially seem challenging, it is entirely feasible with the right breed selection. The key is to choose breeds that are known for their adaptability, calm demeanor, and moderate exercise needs, such as Greyhounds, Mastiffs, or Newfoundlands. These breeds can thrive in smaller living spaces with sufficient mental stimulation and regular walks. It’s essential to consider the dog’s temperament, exercise requirements, and your lifestyle to ensure a harmonious living environment. With proper care and attention, large dogs can bring joy and companionship to apartment living.

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