Small Dog Breeds Perfect for Apartment Living
Living in an apartment doesn't mean you can't have a dog! Many small breeds are perfectly suited for apartment living. They require less space, are often quieter, and can get their exercise needs met with indoor play and short walks. Here are the best small dog breeds for apartment dwellers.
What Makes a Good Apartment Dog?
Before we dive into specific breeds, let's understand what qualities make a dog well-suited for apartment living:
- Low to moderate energy levels: Less need for large spaces to run
- Quiet nature: Won't disturb neighbors with excessive barking
- Small size: Fits comfortably in smaller spaces
- Adaptable: Can be happy with indoor activities
- Easy to potty train: Important for high-rise living
Top Small Apartment Dog Breeds
1. French Bulldog
Why They're Perfect for Apartments:
- Low energy levels
- Quiet and rarely barks
- Small size (under 30 lbs)
- Adaptable to various living situations
- Great personalities
Care Needs:
- Short daily walks
- Minimal grooming
- Sensitive to extreme temperatures
- Regular cleaning of facial folds
French Bulldogs are one of the most popular apartment dogs. Their calm demeanor and minimal exercise needs make them ideal for city living.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Why They're Perfect for Apartments:
- Gentle and quiet
- Moderate energy
- Affectionate and friendly
- Adaptable to small spaces
- Great with people
Care Needs:
- Daily brushing
- Moderate exercise
- Regular ear cleaning
- Social and needs attention
These gentle dogs are perfect companions for apartment dwellers who want a loving, low-maintenance pet.
3. Pug
Why They're Perfect for Apartments:
- Very low energy
- Quiet and calm
- Small and compact
- Great personalities
- Minimal exercise needs
Care Needs:
- Short walks
- Regular cleaning of facial folds
- Sensitive to heat
- Moderate grooming
Pugs are known for their laid-back personalities and are perfectly content with apartment living and short walks.
4. Shih Tzu
Why They're Perfect for Apartments:
- Low energy levels
- Quiet and calm
- Small size
- Adaptable
- Great lap dogs
Care Needs:
- Daily grooming
- Short walks
- Regular professional grooming
- Indoor exercise sufficient
Shih Tzus are perfect apartment companions who are happy to spend their days lounging and playing indoors.
5. Boston Terrier
Why They're Perfect for Apartments:
- Moderate energy
- Generally quiet
- Small and compact
- Easy to train
- Friendly nature
Care Needs:
- Moderate exercise
- Minimal grooming
- Regular cleaning
- Social needs
Boston Terriers are well-suited for apartment living with their manageable size and adaptable nature.
6. Chihuahua
Why They're Perfect for Apartments:
- Very small size
- Low exercise needs
- Can be trained to be quiet
- Minimal space requirements
- Long lifespan
Care Needs:
- Short walks
- Minimal grooming (short-haired variety)
- Training for barking
- Socialization important
Chihuahuas are the smallest breed and can thrive in even the smallest apartments with proper training.
7. Bichon Frise
Why They're Perfect for Apartments:
- Low to moderate energy
- Hypoallergenic
- Small size
- Friendly and playful
- Adaptable
Care Needs:
- Regular professional grooming
- Moderate exercise
- Daily brushing
- Social needs
Bichon Frises are great for apartment living and perfect for people with allergies.
8. Maltese
Why They're Perfect for Apartments:
- Very small size
- Low energy
- Hypoallergenic
- Quiet nature
- Great lap dogs
Care Needs:
- Daily grooming
- Short walks
- Regular professional grooming
- Indoor exercise sufficient
Maltese dogs are tiny, gentle, and perfect for small apartment spaces.
9. Yorkshire Terrier
Why They're Perfect for Apartments:
- Very small size
- Low exercise needs
- Hypoallergenic
- Adaptable
- Long lifespan
Care Needs:
- Daily grooming
- Short walks
- Regular professional grooming
- Training for barking
Yorkies are tiny but full of personality, making them great apartment companions.
10. Pomeranian
Why They're Perfect for Apartments:
- Very small size
- Moderate energy
- Adaptable
- Playful personality
- Minimal space needs
Care Needs:
- Daily brushing
- Moderate exercise
- Regular grooming
- Training for barking
Pomeranians are small but spunky, perfect for apartment dwellers who want a lively companion.
Tips for Apartment Dog Ownership
Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Even small dogs need exercise and mental stimulation:
- Daily walks: Even 15-20 minutes helps
- Indoor play: Fetch, tug-of-war, puzzle toys
- Training sessions: Mental exercise is as important as physical
- Dog parks: Visit when possible for socialization
Managing Noise
Keep your dog quiet to maintain good relationships with neighbors:
- Train from a young age
- Use positive reinforcement
- Address barking immediately
- Provide mental stimulation to prevent boredom barking
Potty Training
Essential for apartment living:
- Establish a routine
- Use potty pads or frequent walks
- Be consistent with training
- Consider a balcony potty area if allowed
Space Management
Make the most of your space:
- Designate a dog area
- Use vertical space (beds, toys)
- Keep essentials organized
- Create a safe, comfortable space
Considerations Before Getting an Apartment Dog
- Pet Policies: Check your lease and building rules
- Size Restrictions: Some buildings have weight limits
- Breed Restrictions: Some breeds may be prohibited
- Additional Fees: Pet deposits and monthly fees
- Neighbor Considerations: Be mindful of noise and shared spaces
Conclusion
Small dogs can be perfect companions for apartment living. The key is choosing a breed that matches your lifestyle and energy level. Remember, even small dogs need exercise, training, and mental stimulation to be happy and healthy.
At FurFam, we can help you find the perfect apartment-friendly companion. Browse our breeds or contact us for personalized recommendations based on your living situation.
Looking for the perfect apartment companion? Explore our small dog breeds or get in touch with our team.
