Hi, I’m Anna Wayne—and if you’re reading this, I’m guessing your heart is already halfway to the shelter or breeder, but your square footage is giving you pause. Breathe. Cozy homes and happy dogs absolutely go together. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best dogs for apartments, how to choose the right match for your lifestyle, and how to make small-space living feel big and joyful for both of you.
Why “Best Dogs for Apartments” Doesn’t Mean Just “Small Dogs”
We are associating the word apartment with the word tiny, and the word tiny with the word toy breeds. That is part of the story. The best dogs for apartments are those whose energy, bark tendencies, and daily needs fit your routine and building rules. Certain big breeds are easy-going cottage co-pilots, and certain powder midgets are energizer pups.
Authoritative sources devoted to the properties of apartments mentioned as friendly also emphasize the fact that size is not the only parameter considered, as temperature and activity level are also of equal importance. You will find more relaxed, lower energy breeds, of all sizes, appearing in lists of those that work in apartments, even the American Kennel Club (AKC).
“One of the most overlooked joys of city living is discovering just how many apartment-friendly dogs truly thrive in smaller spaces.”
Apartment Realities You Should Consider First
Before we get to specific breeds, let’s quickly map your environment:
- Pets & weight restrictions: Caps on size, Dogs, Many landlords used to limit the weight to around 45-50 lb (some at 20 lb), but this is changing and varies with the property. Check your lease and enquire about exceptions, pet rent and deposits.
Noise sensitivity: Thin walls + a vocal dog = frustrated neighbors. Prioritize breeds known for being quieter or easily redirected with training.
Elevators, stairs, and green space: If late-night potty breaks mean an elevator ride, favor dogs with solid leash manners and predictable potty schedules.
Your daily rhythm: Work from home? Active? Night owl? The best dogs for apartments are those that slot into your schedule, not the other way around.
The Big Three Traits for Apartment Success
✨ “When choosing the best dogs for apartments, focus on three key traits—energy level, noise factor, and friendliness—that make city living smoother.”
Energy Level: Can daily walks + mental enrichment satisfy your dog? Choose breeds that are content with moderate exercise.
Bark Tendency: Some breeds are watchful narrators; others keep their commentary to a minimum.
Trainability & Sociability: Shared hallways, elevators, and dog-friendly lobbies reward polite, people-friendly pups.
25+ Best Dogs for Apartments (Popular in the USA)
Below are beloved, commonly available breeds (and a few mixes) that often shine in apartments. I’ll share size, vibe, care notes, and why they’re frequently recommended for city living. Breeds called out by the AKC as apartment-friendly are noted throughout.
Important: Every dog is an individual. Within any breed, energy and temperament vary. Meet your dog, ask good questions, and assess fit honestly.
1) French Bulldog
Why they’re great: Small, loving and generally low-to-moderate energy. Invariably mentioned as one of the best apartment dogs due to their carefree personalities and limited grooming. Monitor heat and respiration; short walks and air conditioning are the most important.
2) Bulldog (English)
Why they’re great: Sofa connoisseurs! Bulldogs tend to be mellow and don’t demand marathon runs. Keep an eye on weight, skin folds, and heat sensitivity. AKC includes them on multiple apartment-friendly lists.
3) Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Why they’re great: Gentle, cuddly, and adaptable to smaller spaces with daily strolls. They thrive on being with you—perfect for WFH humans. (Health screening for heart/eyes is vital.)
4) Pug
Why they’re great: Clownish charm, moderate needs, and a love of napping. Mind weight and summer heat. Featured frequently in apartment picks. “Pugs often top the list of the best dogs for apartments thanks to their playful charm, low exercise needs, and love for cozy couch time.”
5) Shih Tzu
Why they’re great: Sweet, people-oriented, typically lower energy. Coat care requires commitment, but they’re superb companions for compact homes and are often praised for apartment living.
6) Bichon Frisé
Why they’re great: Bright, cheerful, hypoallergenic-leaning coat. Enjoys play but doesn’t require huge mileage. Regular grooming is non-negotiable. The Bichon Frisé is one of the best dogs for apartments, bringing cheer, a low-shedding coat, and an affectionate nature perfect for small-space living.
7) Havanese
Why they’re great: Velcro-dog energy—in the best way. Adaptable, trainable, and a frequent headliner on best dogs for apartments lists. Coat care needed.
8) Maltese
Why they’re great: Elegant lapdogs with big hearts, modest exercise needs, and coats that need brushing. Excellent for quieter buildings. “The Maltese is often counted among the best dogs for apartments, with a gentle personality, modest exercise needs, and a big heart wrapped in a small body.”
9) Papillon
Why they’re great: Tiny geniuses—athletic yet manageable with daily brain games and walks. Great for obedience fun even in small spaces.
10) Toy or Miniature Poodle
Why they’re great: Smart, trainable, low-shedding coat. Mental work (puzzles, training games) is as important as walks. Frequently recommended for apartment living.
11) Boston Terrier
Why they’re great: Compact, dapper, often quiet, and happy with moderate activity. Good elevator etiquette prospects with training. “The Boston Terrier is one of the best dogs for apartments—compact, friendly, and easygoing, making them a perfect match for city living.”
12) Yorkshire Terrier
Why they’re great: Pocket-sized with a big personality. Regular brushing and consistent training help keep barking in check. Often suggested for small homes.
13) Chihuahua (Well-socialized)
Why they’re great: Minimal space needs; short daily exercise suffices. Socialization and bark management are crucial in close quarters. “Chihuahuas, when well-socialized, make excellent apartment-friendly dogs—tiny in size yet full of personality, thriving with short walks and plenty of companionship.”
14) Pomeranian
Why they’re great: Fluffy extroverts who do well with indoor play plus short walks. Brush often; train a “quiet” cue early.
15) Cocker Spaniel (American or English)
Why they’re great: Medium size, affectionate, adaptable. Daily walks and brushing make apartment life lovely. “Cocker Spaniels are affectionate, adaptable, and among the most loving apartment-friendly dogs, fitting beautifully into smaller spaces with daily walks and brushing.”
16) Coton de Tuléar
Why they’re great: Comical charmers with silky coats and moderate needs—nice for gentle, indoor-friendly play.
17) Lhasa Apso
Why they’re great: Regal and calm indoors with daily walks. Grooming is a steady routine, but they’re nicely sized for apartments. “The Lhasa Apso is a calm, regal companion and one of the most loyal apartment-friendly dogs, thriving in small spaces with steady grooming and daily walks.”
18) Chinese Crested
Why they’re great: Unique looks, light exercise needs, and low shedding. Skin care (sun and dryness) matters. Often listed as apartment-friendly.
19) Greyhound (and Italian Greyhound)
Why they’re great: Surprise! Sprinters who love… napping. A couple of good walks and a zoomie session, and they’re content on the couch—classic best dogs for apartments curveball. The Italian Greyhound offers a toy-sized version with similar chill.
20) Whippet
Why they’re great: Quiet, sensitive, low-key inside. Provide regular leashed exercise and soft bedding; they’re world-class snugglers.
21) Basenji
Why they’re great: The “barkless” dog (they yodel). Clean and cat-like. They’re athletic, so channel that energy thoughtfully with daily enrichment. “The Basenji stands out as one of the most unique apartment-friendly dogs—clean, cat-like, and famously barkless, making them great for shared walls.”
22) Dachshund
Why they’re great: Small footprint, big devotion. Short legs don’t mean low exercise—add sniffari walks and puzzle feeders.
23) Miniature Schnauzer
Why they’re great: Sturdy and smart with a low-shedding coat. Barking can happen without guidance; consistent training helps.
24) Shi-Poos, Morkies, Cavapoos & Other Doodles (from responsible sources)
Why they’re great: A variety of mixes have been bred to live as companions and can survive in apartments with enrichment each day. Consider the energy (they are not all the same) and give an ethical breeder or rescue first priority.
25) Corgis (Pembroke/ Cardigan) for Prepared Owners
Why they’re great: Charismatic, smallish herders. They do need mental work (herding brains!) and bark management, but many city folks love them.
26) Basset Hound
Why they’re great: Chill, charming, scent-driven. Keep noses busy and watch stairs due to long backs. “Basset Hounds are laid-back, lovable apartment-friendly dogs that enjoy relaxed living, daily sniff walks, and plenty of cozy nap time indoors.”
27) Keeshond
Why they’re great: Medium size, people-focused, and adaptable with proper exercise and brushing. “The Keeshond is a people-loving, fluffy companion and one of the most adaptable apartment-friendly dogs, thriving with regular walks and steady grooming.”
Pro tip: You’ll find French Bulldogs, Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, Cavaliers, Pugs, Bichons, Havanese, and Greyhounds repeatedly showing up on the list in a few authoritative places, and that recurrence is a strong indication that they are popular best apartment pets, given the right level of care.
Matching Your Lifestyle to the Right Breed
✨ “Finding the best dogs for apartments isn’t just about size—it’s about choosing a breed that fits your daily routine, energy level, and lifestyle.”
If you work from home and want a cuddle buddy
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Havanese, Shih Tzu, Maltese, Bichon Frise.
- Why: Love-giving, humanist, content to sleep as you write.
If you’re moderately active and love short city walks
- French bulldog, Bulldog, Boston terrier, Miniature Schnauzer and Whippet.
- Why: Controllable activity with lots of socialization.
If you crave a smart training partner (without marathon runs)
- Toy/Mini poodle, papillon, cocker spaniel.
- Why: Brain games, training tricks and indoor enrichment are their thing.
If you want low-shedding options
- Toy/Mini Poodle, Bichon Frise, Maltese, Mini Schnauzer.
- Why: Coats do not shed a lot as compared to many breeds. (Note: “hypoallergenic does not mean absolute.)
If you’re noise-sensitive (and so are your neighbors)
- Bulldog, Whippet, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Greyhound.
- Why: Not usually so barky with good training; concentrate on non-punitive reinforcement.
Navigating Landlord Rules (Without Losing Your Mind)
Rental policies will include weight limits and in some cases, breed restrictions. Numerous communities have always placed upper limits of about 45-50 lb, but this is not always true and in fact this is softening. Get it in writing before committing–fees, deposits, monthly pet rent and any lists that are handed out as restricted. In case of an exception, request it very politely and provide a pet resume: vaccination documents, spay/neuter, references and evidence of training.
The Apartment Dog Starter Kit
✨ “Before bringing home one of the best dogs for apartments, make sure you’re ready with the basics—space setup, walking routine, and plenty of love.”
Daily Routine: The Calm-Energy Loop
Predictable potty breaks: Morning, lunch, evening, pre-bed. A reliable schedule reduces accidents and anxiety.
Two short walks + one enrichment session: For many best dogs for apartments, 2 × 15–30 min walks + 1 creative brain game (snuffle mat, puzzle feeder, hide-and-seek with kibble) is the magic formula.
Micro-training moments: 3–5 minutes, a few times a day. Reinforce “quiet,” “leave it,” “place,” and polite doorway manners.
Indoor Enrichment That Doesn’t Annoy Neighbors
Scent work: Scatter kibble in a cardboard box fortress and let your dog “forage.”
Lick mats & long-lasting chews: Encourage calm, relaxed behavior.
DIY agility lite: Cushion-to-cushion leaps, careful hallway recalls. Keep it gentle and safe.
Training games: Name your dog’s toys and play “find bear!”—a brainy game that burns energy quietly.
Bark Management (Kind, Effective, Realistic)
Meet the triggers: Door dings, hallway voices, elevator sounds.
Counter-condition: Play low-volume trigger sounds while feeding treats; gradually increase volume.
Teach “quiet” as a behavior: Mark and reward moments of silence after a bark; don’t punish communication.
Pre-emptive exercise: A mentally satisfied dog is a quieter dog.
Potty Logistics for High-Rise Life
Indoor backup: Pee pads or a balcony turf patch can be a lifesaver in storms or illness.
Late-night plan: Choose routes with good lighting and keep high-value treats handy for quick success.
Grooming & Shedding in Small Spaces
✨ “Even the best dogs for apartments need a little coat care—knowing how to manage grooming and shedding makes life easier in small spaces.”
- Less shedding favorites: Toy/Mini Poodle, Maltese, Bichon Frise, Mini Schnauzer.
- Calm brushers: Pomeranian, Shih tzu, Havanese, Cocker Spaniel, Yorkshire Terrier.
- Short-coat shedders: Pug, French Bulldog–less brushing, but the hair can be tenacious on clothing.
Buy a quality cordless vacuum, furniture throws, and a grooming calendar. With the right tools, maintaining the apartment becomes very easy.
Health & Ethics: Choose With Heart and Homework
✨ “The best dogs for apartments aren’t just about cuteness—they come from responsible sources, with health checks and ethical choices that ensure lifelong happiness.”
- Credible sources: When going after a purebred puppy, demand health testing befitting the breed (e.g., Cavaliers–heart and eye screening are important). Or finally, look at breed-specific rescues or shelters; there are so many great apartment-ready adults there.
- Brachycephalic breeds: In the case of Bulldogs, Frenchies, and Pugs, control the amount of temperature and heat, do not use a collar, and do not overexert their bodies.
- Insurance: Have a monthly dog buffer, or emergency fund, set aside to cover bills to the vet.
- Spay/neuter: Does your management seem happy, and your pup healthy?
Sample Apartment Day Plan (Works for Many Breeds)
7:00 a.m. Quick potty + 20-minute sniff walk
7:30 a.m. Breakfast from a puzzle toy
Noon 10-minute training game + potty break
6:30 p.m. 25-minute walk (mix brisk and sniff)
8:00 p.m. Lick mat while you unwind
10:00 p.m. Final potty + cuddles
This rhythm meets many best dogs for apartments, where they are: predictable, calm, enriched, and loved.
Puppy vs. Adult in Apartments
Puppies are magical chaos. In smaller homes, that can feel… big. Consider:
Puppy pros: You set habits from day one, shape sociability, and build an unbreakable bond.
Puppy cons: Frequent potty breaks, teething/boredom chewing, bark training from scratch.
Adult dog pros: Often house-trained; energy and temperament are known; many thrive immediately in apartments.
Adult dog cons: Might arrive with habits to gently reshape—but most love structure and blossom fast.
“I Love This Breed, But My Building Has a Weight Limit…”
✨ “Don’t worry—many of the best dogs for apartments are small in size but big in heart, making them perfect for buildings with weight restrictions.”
Ask respectfully: Share vet records, training certificates, renter’s insurance, and letters from prior landlords.
Offer solutions: Commitment to professional training classes, additional pet rent or deposit.
Consider timing: Start the conversation before signing; know when to walk away if it’s a hard no. Many communities are reconsidering strict weight caps.
The Shortlist: 12 Standout Best Dogs for Apartments
When readers ask me for a condensed list, here’s the dozen I share most often (balancing temperament, noise potential, grooming, and availability in the USA):
French Bulldog – Cuddly, compact, moderate exercise.
Bulldog – Calm companion, air-conditioned nap pro.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – Affectionate, adaptable, people-centric.
Shih Tzu – Sweet lapdog with manageable exercise needs.
Bichon Frisé – Cheerful, trainable, lower shedding.
Havanese – Friendly, apartment-savvy companion.
Pug – Funny, loving, moderate strolls suffice.
Toy/Mini Poodle – Brilliant, lower shedding, loves mental games.
Papillon – Small and smart; thrives on training fun.
Greyhound – Big body, bigger nap energy—surprisingly perfect.
Whippet – Quiet, gentle, cozy.
Maltese – Tender little companion; steady coat care.
FAQs: Quick Answers for Apartment Dog Parents
Q: Are small dogs always the best dogs for apartments?
Not always. Many small dogs have high energy and big voices. Some larger breeds are mellow and quiet. Fit the dog to your lifestyle more than your square footage.
Q: How many walks does an apartment dog need?
Many thrive on two short walks plus one enrichment session daily; adjust for age and breed.
Q: What about barking complaints?
Train a “quiet” cue, manage triggers (doorway sounds, deliveries), and meet daily mental needs. A tired mind is a quiet mouth.
Q: Is crate training okay in an apartment?
Yes—when used kindly and gradually. The crate is a den, not a punishment. It’s also helpful for polite, calm downtime.
Q: Can I keep a dog if my building has a 50-lb limit?
Maybe. Policies vary. Start with a conversation, share records and references, and ask about exceptions. Some communities are moving away from rigid weight caps.
Q: How can a responsible breeder or a rescuer be found safely?
Request health checking regarding the breed (e.g., heart/eye checks on Cavaliers) when able, meet parents where possible, and never patronize puppy mills. Also see breed-specific rescues and shelters of great apartment-ready adults.
Competitor Insights That Helped Shape This Guide
When researching the best dogs for apartments, I looked at leading breed authorities and rental-industry guidance:
AKC’s apartment dog roundups emphasize temperament and activity over size, highlighting a broad range from toy breeds (Shih Tzu, Havanese) to larger lounge-lovers (Greyhound, Bulldog).
Rental industry sources note that many communities historically used 45–50 lb weight limits and that practices are evolving. That’s why I recommend confirming policies in writing and preparing a “pet résumé.”
These perspectives align with real-world apartment living: pick a dog for who they are, not just how big they are.
Final Word—from My Tiny Kitchen Table to Yours
The backyard is not necessary to provide a dog with a lovely life. You require continuity, sensitivity and ingenuity. The most apartment-friendly dogs are dogs whose needs you are happy to satisfy in your everyday life: a mindful exploratory stroll before work, a puzzle box whilst you cook a meal, a cozy spot on the couch when the city buzzes with its hum.
When you see that fit, the narrow space living becomes the big-hearted living. And that is what makes four walls a home.
— Written by Anna Wayne