The best 15 dogs for apartments

Small spaces, elevators and many neighbors are not a problem for these dog breeds.


If you have already lived in an apartment, you know that your four -legged neighbors , no matter how much the adorable can be one of the greatest nuisances. Maybe the dog upstairs loves jumping, and someone has stunned up there. Or maybe the puppy in the adjacent unit barks each time someone goes through the front door. And, of course, no one likes to avoid an accident in the elevator. But that doesn't mean you have to wait to get your own home to have a pet. According to veterinarians, there are many dog ​​breeds well suited to small spaces and multifamily life. Read the rest to find out more about the 15 best apartments dogs.

Read this then: 9 low -maintenance dogs you need to work .

What to know before getting a dog in an apartment.

A close up of a person walking a Golden Retriever on a city street
Hobo_018 / Istock

For the same reasons that your building probably does not allow you to blow up music in the middle of the night or leave damage in the corridor, it probably has rules surrounding pets - and you will want to familiarize yourself with them Before bringing a home dog (especially since you have probably signed these stipulations in your lease).

"Many organizations have restrictions for size, breed and other specifications," said Teresa Manacy , veterinarian at Soft . "There may also be limits of noise allowances."

Although the size certainly plays a role (sheltering a dog of 100 pounds in a studio is probably not the best idea), Manucy says that it is not the only consideration.

"All dogs, whatever their size, require physical and mental enrichment, which can take time for many parents of animals, especially without access to the outside or limited walking spaces," she said . "Puppies need more training, education and time."

"The toy or miniature breeds can be the right size, but some breeds are more vocal and may have separation anxiety When left alone too long, "she adds." When the stairs are the only option, be sure to consider that navigating them can be difficult for very short or older dogs who suffer from arthritis. ""

That said, here is a list approved by the veterinarian of the best dogs for apartments.

In relation: I am a veterinarian and these are the 5 most necessary dog ​​breeds .

1
Bichon Frize

bichon frisé
Eudyptula / Shutterstock

Bichon Frize is the most recommended dog breed for apartments on this list. The American Kennel Club (AKC) describes the bichons as charming, intelligent and " Irresistible canine actors . ""

However, despite their fun and joyful personalities (which they extend both humans and other dogs), the bichons "are not too worried by noisy neighbors or open -air traffic" Linda Simon , MVB, MRCVS, a advice veterinarian at Five barks .

In addition to being silent, these dogs "have no underlay, so they have rarely lost," said Deepanshu Bedi , Marketing Director of CBD Dog Treat Company Holistapet . This is important for small spaces that collect hair more easily and for allergy owners. Note, however, that the AKC recommends daily brushing.

Apart from that, a bichon frize is very little maintenance, content with a daily walk and plays in the apartment.

2
Ravalier King Charles Spaniel

Young beautiful woman with long curly hair playing with her dog in the park .She is wearing black jacket, jeans,boots and hat .
Sabelnikova Olga / Shutterstock

The next downside most recommended is the King Charles Spaniel rider. This breed is small but not too small (they generally weigh between 13 and 18 pounds).

"Their compact size and moderate energy levels make them suitable for apartments because they are generally satisfied with two walks per day, as long as they get quality outdoor time on weekends", explain Alexandra Bassett , CPDT-KA, principal coach and behavior specialist at Dog Savvy Los Angeles .

Two other features adapted to the apartments of this breed are that "they tend to be really affable and friendly towards foreigners, because they were not raised to be kept like certain dogs, which means that they do not have Trend to be subscriptions ", note Bassett.

But perhaps the most important is their adaptability. "They can be optimistic athletes or shameless sofa potatoes, according to The lifestyle of an owner , "By AKC.

3
French Bulldog

A man relaxing on a brown leather armchair with his smartphone together with his French Bulldog resting on his lap.
Gollykim / Istock

Pets experts say that French and English Bulldogs make large apartments because they are not big barrels and require only a moderate exercise. "These are incredibly easy to live and sofa puppies that like to lounge and relax," said Josh SNEAD , CEO of Rainwalk pet insurance .

However, English Bulldogs are subject to breathing difficulties in the heat and do not do well with the stairs.

French Bulldogs are the smallest of the two breeds, generally weighing less than 28 pounds, and are considered particularly popular " Among the city dwellers , "According to the AKC. In fact, they were recently crowned Most popular dog breed For the second consecutive year.

"These compact but sweet dogs, also known as Frenchies ... love to play and interact with humans, and a quick walk is all they need for their physical activity," notes Bedi. "The best thing about this breed? They rarely affect (except in the face of danger or threat), which your neighbors will be grateful."

French Bulldogs are also subject to breathing problems in hot weather, so make sure your apartment is air-conditioned.

In relation: 10 breeds of dogs that bark the most, according to the veterinarians .

4
Yorkshire Terrier

Dog Yorkshire Terrier eats a snack - Image
Valerie Nik / Shutterstock

If you are anxious not to be at home with your puppy, think of a Yorkshire Terrier.

"Yorkies are known to be independent, so if you are looking for a dog that will just spend time alone while you are at work or out of the apartment, this can be the breed for you," said Jeff Netzley , a dog coach based in Colorado and creator of Dog training near you .

And, of course, their little stature is a plus. "Adult Yorkshire's burrows are on average about seven pounds, so they won't take up too much space in your home," said Daniel Caughill , co-founder of History for dogs . "It also means that you can easily pick them up when you go up in the metro, by going up mechanical stairs or by bringing into the grocery store."

AKC gives Yorkies one five out of five for affection, adaptability and openness to foreigners. They are also " long -term and hypoallergenic "Although their coat looks more like human hair and requires a lot of maintenance. AE0FCC31AE342FD3A1346EBB1F342FCB

5
Pug

pug in a blanket
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Another breed is well suited to an owner with a busy schedule.

"The carlins appreciate short walks, interior activities and lounging at home," shares Manacy. "They are an ideal breed for apartments because they often have relaxed and faithful personalities and are happy to spend time and cuddles their people."

Embark veterinary geneticist Jenna dockweiler , Dvm, typing, adds that they Do not bite a lot. However, she points out that "similar to the French bulldog, they are brachycephalic and may not tolerate warmer temperatures". So make sure your apartment stays cool.

According to the AKC, they lose more than certain other breeds, but they have Minimum grooming needs And generally do not lay more than 18 pounds.

6
Chihuahua

Young afro-american woman sitting with her pet Chihuahua and using laptop at home
Filastron / Istock

If you live in a Really Small apartment, you may want a Really Small dog like a chihuahua.

Described by the AKC as " A small dog With a huge personality, "this breed will not exceed six pounds and eight inches high.

In addition, "they require little or no exercise and can be trained in the pot to use a pee or a small outdoor space", explains Megan Conrad , BVMS, an Oregon based veterinarian and member of Hello Ralphia . This is particularly important because these dogs do not do well in cold weather.

However, if you live in an apartment with thin walls, it may not be the breed for you. The chihuahuas have a strong and acute bark and "will alert you very small or big sound by barking a lot , "Merchande Conrad.

But if you are looking for a watchdog, it could be a good thing. In addition, they are known to love hugs.

In relation: The 7 best cities adapted to dogs in the United States

7
Maltese

Maltese dog sitting on bed at home with its leash
Mixetto / Istock

Maltese is another very small breed, generally weighing less than seven pounds. However, you must be aware that these dogs need decent interview in the grooming service.

Their long and silky fur "requires Daily brushing and combing To the skin to prevent carpets and tangles, "notes the AKC. They will also benefit from" regular boupons and mantle conditioners ", as well as routine garnishes. That said, Maltese barely lost.

According to Jacquelyn Kennedy , founder and CEO of Petdt , these dogs are "great like LAP companions" and "do not need as much exercise as larger breeds". She also says that they are extremely intelligent and, therefore, "can easily be socialized to adapt to elevators, neighbors and inspections of apartment life".

8
Havanese

Beautiful young havanese dog is sitting on a gravel forest road in soft light in late summer - Image
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Manucy says that Hoenese has large apartments dogs because they have moderate energy and training needs.

"The Havanese are affectionate and intelligent dogs that weigh up to 13 pounds and stand under a height foot," she shares. "They are good with children and other dogs."

THE AKC agrees And said: "Their small but robust bodies, their adaptable nature and their social skills make Havana an ideal city dog." They add: "The Havanese are also excellent childcare dogs and take work seriously, but will generally keep barking at least."

This breed does not lose much, but they have specific grooming needs for their long silky coat.

9
Basset Dog

Basset Hound
Siberian spring / Shutterstock

Liked for their long, flexible ears and low -on -down bodies, Basset Dogs have the reputation of being sofa potatoes. Of course, they require a regular exercise, but the AKC says: " A daily walk At a moderate pace, will fill the bill. ""

Inside the apartment, however, you will not have to worry about a lot of them to disturb your neighbors while running and jumping, because they prefer by far "snail on the sofa with their owners", said Melissa M. Brock , a veterinarian and author certified on the board of directors at Pets .

The AKC also notes that Basset dogs love to be with other dogs, so the shared dog race of your building will be their favorite place. They have a noisy bark, but they sound mainly outside because they were raised as scents.

In relation: 20 popular dogs that do not lose .

10
Toy poodle

brown toy poodle with tongue out on white bed
Shutterstock / Lim Tiaw Leong

If you are looking for a small dog that is also hypoallergenic, the toy poodle checks both boxes. They weigh between four and six pounds, and they lose or drool barely.

Their curly fur requires a cut According to the AKC. Living near a park is also advised, because these energetic dogs like to play capture and race.

As Bedi notes, poodles are a very intelligent breed, which facilitates them to go to the toilet and eat (they are, after all, salon competitors of common dogs). If you are someone who moves frequently, it is an important line.

Basset also suggests a cavapo - a cross between the rider King Charles Spaniel and a miniature or toy poodle - for the inhabitants of the apartments, because they also are hypoallergenic and with low load shedding, and have "the affable nature of a rider with the Intelligence of intelligence a poodle.

11
Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzer laying in the grass
Debra Anderson / Shutterstock

The Miniature Schnauzer is a large versatile pet. They are "generally in good health, with long lifespan, and the low check , "According to the AKC, and they also have a friendly personality that makes them affectionate and excellent with children.

Short Jackson , a veterinarian and founder of Animal digest , underlines that the smallest of the three races of Schnauzer is extremely intelligent and easy to train "," which is ideal for training and potted education orders as "quiet" which make them ideal for the life of apartments ".

Brock also suggests this dog but stresses that they are energetic: "They need daily exercise, so make sure that there is room in your apartment so that they run every day!"

12
Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu in the Grass
Sanjagrujic / Shutterstock

Shih Tzus is small, but they have a huge heart. Although most dogs love affection and attention, this breed particularly loves it.

"The idea of ​​a pleasure shih of pleasure is seated on your knees Acting adorable when you try to watch television, "said the AKC.

Since they were raised to live in Chinese palaces, they are well suited to inner life and do not need a lot of outdoor space. A short walk and a game in the apartment are more than sufficient.

Due to their lapdog nature, even their temperament and their minimum loss, Shih Tzus " Popular among the senior crowd “Note Brock. They also don't care about being transported, which may be necessary if you live in a city.

In relation: Top 5 The most difficult dog breeds in Potty Train, says veterinarian .

13
Italian greyhound

italian greyhound laying on blanket in a room with carpeting
Stelo / istock

"Despite their sporting construction, Italian graduates are surprisingly well suited to the apartment", shares Jennifer Sperry , DVM, veterinary advisor at AKC pet insurance . "They enjoy one or two high intensity sessions" zoom “In open spaces twice a day. With this, they are relatively low in energy inside and like to snuggle up with their owners. ""

However, Dockweiler notes that you will have to be a little more conscientious when you take this breed outside, especially in the city.

"Although they are small, the Italian leviors are real flies and will take off after critters or fast-moving objects," she explains. "Due to this trait, an area on a leash or fenced is a must when it removes them to exercise."

They also have fragile bones, which means that you will want to avoid unequal ground, according to Sperry, and dog parks that allow the increasingly small breeds.

14
Newfoundland

newfoundland dog in grass
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If your building has no weight limit for dogs - and you prefer a larger breed - Newfoundland could be the perfect animal for you. Just make sure your house is spacious enough because these dogs can weigh up to 150 pounds.

"New times have energy levels and lower barking and moderate training needs," said Manucy. "News have a soft temperament, are sympathetic to families and are patient with children. They can be lazy potatoes at home, so they will enjoy lounging with you."

They can also be left alone during the day while you are at work, but "offer additional physical and mental stimulation will help avoid separation anxiety", notes Manacy.

15
Japanese chin

Japanese Chin dog breed
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The AKC calls the Japanese chin "Tiny 'Indoorsy' Companions", so it is not surprising that Manacy agrees that they are one of the best dogs for apartments.

"They are small, generally weighing up to 11 pounds, and are a perfect and cuddly companion and a small step dog.

The AKC gives the best scores of the Japanese chin for their affection with their family and their quality with other dogs. They have moderate energy and are not great barrels.

This story has been updated to include additional inputs, verification of facts and copying edition.


Categories: Smarter Living
Tags: animals / Pets
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