Living in a flat doesn’t mean you have to compromise on companionship. In fact, several dog breeds adapt wonderfully to apartment living, offering endless love and loyalty without the need for extensive space. Whether you’re drawn to the calm demeanor of a French Bulldog or the portable size of a Chihuahua, the right breed can transform your living space into a haven of warmth and joy. Discover nine exceptional dog breeds that not only flourish in compact environments but also bring boundless happiness to urban life, transforming flats into true homes filled with wagging tails and affectionate moments.
Living in an apartment can be tricky when considering getting a dog. There’s not a lot of space for them to roam and no easy access to a yard. But don’t let that stop you from enjoying the many joys of having a furry friend! Just because you don’t have a big backyard doesn’t mean you can’t own a dog.
Apartment living can feel cramped for both humans and their four-legged friends. Bigger dog breeds or those with high exercise needs may struggle in small spaces, often becoming restless and displaying destructive behavior due to pent-up energy.
Beyond exercise needs, temperament matters, too. Laid-back, calm breeds adapt better to small spaces than demanding or stubborn ones. Shedding and barking are also key factors to consider. Heavy shedders can trigger allergies and make cleaning harder, while noisy breeds may disturb your neighbors.
Some dogs thrive in a cozy apartment setup. The best apartment dogs are usually smaller, low-energy, and not big shedders. If you’re searching for the perfect furry roommate, here are some of the best dog breeds for people who live in apartments.
Best Dog Breeds for People That Live in a Flat
1. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Pembroke Welsh Corgis are the best apartment dogs. They’re small, quiet in nature, low-energy, and don’t need much exercise to stay healthy, though they love their daily walks and playtime. Their compact size makes them perfect for smaller spaces, and they’re super adaptable, so they can do well in all kinds of living situations.
Corgis are known for being friendly, affectionate, and incredibly loyal. They form strong bonds with their owners and are wonderful companions for families, singles, and even other pets, thanks to their sociable nature.
AKC states that Pembroke Welsh Corgis’ intelligence and eagerness to please also make them highly trainable, whether you’re teaching them basic commands or fun tricks. Plus, they’re quick learners who enjoy mental challenges, so training sessions can be both productive and fun.
2. Mastiff
Mastiffs might look like they need a ton of space, but don’t let their size trick you—they’re well-behaved dogs. These gentle giants are super chill and laid-back, so you don’t have to worry about them bouncing off the walls in a small space.
They’re pretty low-energy and only need enough exercise, which is perfect if you don’t have daily playing hours with your pup. They’re incredibly loyal and loving with their families and can even double as great guard dogs.
They’re natural protectors too, so they can double as great guard dogs who will keep watch over your home without being overly aggressive. Their affectionate and patient nature makes them excellent dog breeds, especially for families or individuals who want a big dog with a gentle heart. Just make sure you’re ready for their size—while they don’t need much space to move around, their bed might take up half your living room.
3. Greyhound
Greyhounds are hands down the best dogs in the world. They love to run, but here’s the surprise – they don’t need as much exercise as other high-energy breeds. A 30-minute walk and the occasional sprint in a secure area are enough to keep a Greyhound happy and in good shape.
Greyhounds are great for apartment living thanks to their breed characteristics, lower to moderate exercise needs, easygoing personality, low-shedding coat, and trainable nature. Greyhounds are often content with a couple of short daily walks and plenty of time to relax, making them ideal for smaller spaces.
Despite their racing history, they are surprisingly laid-back and often referred to as “couch potatoes.” However, it’s worth noting that they are on the bigger side, standing 26 to 30 inches tall and weighing 65 to 85 pounds, which may require slightly more room than smaller breeds.
4. Pug
Pugs are best among small dog breeds, especially if you’re around to give them the love and attention they crave. These little dogs are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, making them perfect companions for individuals or families. They rarely bark, a huge plus for apartment living—your neighbors will thank you.
However, remember that pugs shed a lot, especially when they blow their coats in the fall and spring. Regular grooming, like brushing them a few times a week, can help keep the shedding under control. Pugs are also relatively low-energy dogs, making them ideal for apartment living or quieter households. They don’t require long hours of exercise, but they still need regular activity.
Short walks, about 20-30 minutes a day, and interactive playtime are essential to keep them fit, prevent obesity, and ensure they stay mentally stimulated. Pugs are affectionate companions who thrive on attention and love spending time with their owners, so these activities are also a great way to bond with your furry friend.
5. Bulldog
Bulldogs might look tough with their muscled frames, but they’re couch potatoes at heart. They love nothing more than lounging around and taking it easy. They don’t need intense workouts—just a few brisk walks daily will keep them happy and healthy. Bulldogs are super friendly, affectionate, and loyal, which makes them amazing companions for families or anyone looking for a furry friend.
Britannica mentions their short noses can make hot or humid weather challenging for them, as it affects their ability to regulate their body temperature and breathe comfortably. Because of this, bulldogs thrive in cooler climates where they can breathe more easily and stay comfortable.
They’re indoor dogs at heart, enjoying a cozy home environment with plenty of love and attention. With proper care, regular vet check-ups, and lots of affection, bulldogs can bring an incredible amount of joy, loyalty, and companionship to your life. Their gentle, loving nature makes them a wonderful addition to any family.
6. Dachshund
Dachshunds, or “wiener dogs,” are known for their long bodies and come in standard and miniature sizes, measuring 8 to 10 inches tall and weighing between 13 and 35 pounds. They’re friendly, smart, loyal, and super sweet—and luckily, for apartment dwellers, they don’t need a ton of exercise.
Due to their peaceful temperament, dachshunds are better suited for apartment living than many smaller, more active breeds. This breed is happy with a long walk or a daily indoor playtime and session before a good belly rub and an extended nap.
Apartment living with a Dachshund? It’s all fun and games—until the barking starts. WebMD adds these little charmers love to use their voices, whether passing cars, toy dogs, strange noises, or just plain boredom. While their bark might be part of their quirky personality, it’s not exactly music to your neighbors’ ears. But don’t worry—there’s hope. With regular training from a young age, you can help tone things down. Teaching simple commands like “quiet” and rewarding those calm moments can go a long way.
7. Scottish Terrier
Scottish Terriers, or “Scotties,” are small yet sturdy dogs with a thick double coat that comes in black, brindle, or wheaten colors. They make ideal companions for those living in an apartment. They typically measure 10 inches tall and weigh between 19 and 22 pounds.
These confident and independent pups may seem aloof initially, but once they warm up to you, they’ll be your loyal life companion. As pets, Scotties can adapt well as long as they exercise daily. They’re also highly intelligent and can act out when they don’t get enough exercise. Their size also makes them suitable for smaller living spaces.
However, they tend to bark when bored or left alone for too long, so it’s essential to provide them with plenty of attention and activities to keep them entertained. Bred as companion dogs, they are docile people-pleasers, perfect for small space dwellers.
8. Pointer
Pointers are active and athletic dogs that were initially bred for hunting. They have a lean and muscular build, with short fur in various colors, including black, liver, lemon, orange, and white. Pointers typically range from 21 to 24 inches tall and weigh between 45 and 75 pounds.
Pointers might not be the first small breed dog that comes to mind for apartment living, but with the right approach, they can thrive. Orvis states these high-energy, perfect dog breeds require daily walks or runs to stay happy and to avoid boredom-driven behaviors like chewing or digging. They need regular exercise and professional grooming.
Physical exercise isn’t enough—they also need mental engagement. Incorporate training sessions or puzzle toys to challenge their sharp minds and keep them stimulated. With consistent effort, pointers can become excellent companions, even in smaller spaces.
9. Chihuahua
You knew this one would make the list, right? Chihuahuas are tiny little dogs that easily fit into your lifestyle—even in a small studio apartment. This makes them great apartment dogs. They don’t need much outdoor exercise, and while they’re not hypoallergenic, they’re pretty low-maintenance in grooming, especially the short-haired ones.
Here’s the tricky part: Chihuahuas are famous for their barking. Like dachshunds, dogs need patience and consistent training if you want to keep your neighbors happy. Providing them with the mental stimulation they need to curb reactivity is vital.
On the bright side, these little pups are incredibly loyal. They can get so attached to other dogs in their family that they might get defensive or aggressive towards strangers. But with proper socialization as puppies, that shouldn’t be an issue.
Final Thoughts
Many small dog breeds are great for apartments – from tiny Chihuahuas to playful Shih Tzu, Boston Terrier, and gentle French Bulldog. Considering shedding, barking, energy levels, and trainability, you can find the right dog for your space and lifestyle.
Many dog breeds also need a park, woodland, or other outdoor space nearby where they can run freely off the lead, explore, and get to know other dogs. All dogs, regardless of breed, need exercise, socialization, and affection. Apartment-friendly doesn’t mean just quick potty breaks. With proper care, any canine can thrive in an apartment and be a great companion dog for years.
Choosing the right dog breed for apartment living requires careful consideration of the dog’s size, energy level, and temperament. Breeds like the French Bulldog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and Dachshund are particularly suited for such environments due to their compact size and generally calm demeanor. Additionally, breeds like the Greyhound and Basenji, despite their larger size, tend to be relatively quiet and adaptable. Ultimately, successful apartment living with a dog also depends on an owner’s commitment to providing sufficient exercise and mental stimulation to ensure the well-being of both the pet and the harmony of the living space.