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Living in an apartment can be tough. You share walls with your neighbors, you hear them vacuuming at weird hours, not to mention your storage space is limited. Plus, if you're not a cat or fish person, the pet situation can be challenging. But we've got some good news for you, there are dog breeds suitable for apartment living! You might be shocked to learn that some large breed dogs do well living in small quarters.
The ideal apartment dog should be able to adapt to smaller spaces while remaining happy and healthy. With proper research and understanding, finding the perfect dog breeds under 25 pounds (or even larger breeds!) can help turn your apartment into a comfortable and loving home for your furry friend.
Choosing the Best Dogs under 25 Pounds for Apartment Living
Apartment dwellers beware: Just because dogs are okay to live in a confined space does not mean that all of them are couch potatoes. Pets should be taken out and exercised regularly. Depending on their breed, some require much more exercise than others. And keep in mind that a bored dog can take to destroying your furniture, carpet, clothes, even drywall.
Factors to Consider for Apartment Dogs: Exercise Needs, Behavior, and More
When looking for suitable dog breeds for apartment living, there are several factors to consider. By keeping these factors in mind when doing your research, you can ensure that your chosen breed will thrive in your apartment environment.
Exercise Needs of Dogs under 25 Pounds
Regardless of size, dogs need regular exercise and mental stimulation to maintain their overall well-being. Some breeds may require more exercise, while others can be more content with a lower level of activity. When choosing a dog for your apartment, consider your ability to provide regular walks, playtime, and mental enrichment. Toy breeds under 25 pounds, like Pugs and Shih Tzus, may require less exercise compared to larger breeds like Greyhounds and Rhodesian Ridgebacks, but there are exceptions.
Potential for Destructive Behavior Even for 25 Lb Dogs
Boredom and lack of exercise can lead to destructive behavior in dogs. Chewing, scratching, and excessive barking can be signs of an unhappy dog and can also create conflict with neighbors. When selecting a dog breed for your apartment, consider breeds that are less prone to destructive behavior and are known to be relatively quiet. Breeds like the Basenji, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and French Bulldog are known for being well-mannered and adaptable to apartment living.
Size: Importance of Selecting Appropriate Dog Breeds for Small Spaces
While size should be considered when selecting a dog for an apartment, remember that some large breeds can also adapt well to smaller living spaces. Breeds like the Basset Hound, Greyhound, and Irish Wolfhound are known for their calm demeanor and lower energy levels, making them suitable options for certain apartments.
Small Dog Breeds for Apartments (under 25 pounds)
To make your search a little easier, we’ve put together a list of fantastic small dog breeds under 25 pounds that are great for apartment living. Not only do these little guys and gals fit comfortably in smaller spaces, but they also come with the adaptability, temperament, and energy levels that make them ideal for city dwellers. Take a look at our list of small dog breeds, get to know their charming traits, and find your perfect match for your apartment lifestyle.
Quiet and independent, the Basenji rarely barks and is an excellent companion for apartments, but may need patient, consistent training.
The friendly and hypoallergenic Bichon Frise is great for allergy sufferers, but regular grooming and plenty of companionship are needed to keep them content.
Gentle and adaptable, the Boston Terrier is perfect for apartment living, though they might require regular cleaning of facial folds due to their flat faces.
This charming and affectionate breed is excellent for small spaces, but engaging them in daily mental and physical activities is essential to prevent excessive vocalization.
Adaptable and gentle, Cavaliers easily adjust to apartment life, but potential owners should be mindful of regular vet visits to keep this sweet breed healthy.
The Chihuahua is full of personality and perfect for space-sensitive living, but they may benefit from early socialization and consistent training.
Unique and lively, the Chinese Crested is great for smaller spaces, but they should be provided with a warm environment and proper dental care.
Coton de Tulear (7-13 pounds)
This friendly, fluffy breed is an ideal companion, but to keep them happy, owners should provide regular grooming and plenty of attention.
Charming and adaptable, Miniature Dachshunds are great for apartments; maintaining a healthy weight and providing appropriate exercise is essential to support their long bodies.
The playful and affectionate Havanese has a hypoallergenic coat, which makes it perfect for allergy sufferers; just make sure to provide regular grooming and quality companionship.
Elegant and affectionate, Japanese Chins are perfect for apartments with their low exercise requirements, but patient training and a gentle touch are key for these sensitive souls.
A playful and protective breed, Lhasa Apsos require regular grooming, but are otherwise easy-going, making them ideal companions for apartment living.
Loving and loyal, the Löwchen is adaptable and great for apartments; regular positive interactions and consistent training can help manage their alertness and barking tendencies.
The Maltese is a sociable breed with a hypoallergenic coat, perfect for companionship; providing dental care and housetraining can lead to a long, happy life together.
Active and intelligent, the Manchester Terrier adapts well to apartment living; providing mental stimulation and companionship positively impacts this breed’s happiness.
Energetic and spirited, the Miniature Pinscher excels in small spaces; providing consistent training and portion control ensures a long-lasting bond.
Independent and low-energy, Pekingese enjoy lounging around with their owners, but should be exposed to mild climates and regular grooming for optimal health.
Small, fluffy, and charming, Pomeranians love apartment living; proper socialization and consistency can help maintain a calm demeanor.
Intelligent and hypoallergenic, Poodles of the Toy and Miniature varieties are perfect for apartment dwellers who enjoy regular grooming and stimulating puzzles.
The friendly Pug is ideal for apartments, but keeping them active and maintaining a healthy diet is essential to prevent weight-related health issues.
Curious and energetic, Schipperkes are great for apartments; providing adequate mental and physical stimulation can keep these dogs content and calm.
Clean and adaptable, Shiba Inus can make excellent apartment companions, provided they receive consistent training and proper socialization from an early age.
Gentle and affectionate, Shih Tzus with low exercise needs are perfect for apartments; setting up a regular grooming routine ensures their happiness and well-being.
Energetic and low-shedding, Silky Terriers make great companions for apartment dwellers, provided they have a regular mental and physical exercise regimen in place.
Agile and intelligent, Toy Fox Terriers adapt well to apartments and can be easily groomed; early socialization and creating a warm environment promote their well-being.
Affectionate and hypoallergenic, Yorkshire Terriers are perfect for compact apartments, but providing consistent training and mental stimulation will help minimize potential noise issues.
Choosing the Right Dog Breed for Families with Children: Friendly Dogs Under 25 Pounds
When selecting the perfect dog breed for your family, especially if you have young children, it’s important to consider dog breeds that are known for being good with kids. Some breeds to consider include the Toy Poodle, Havanese, Shih Tzu, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. These breeds are known for their friendly and loving personalities, making them great companions for little ones.
The Toy Poodle is a highly intelligent and easily trainable breed known for its affectionate nature. They are social and require regular grooming due to their curly, non-shedding coat. Havanese, also known as the National Dog of Cuba, are small, adaptable dogs with a playful and affectionate personality. Their soft, silky coat is hypoallergenic, making them an excellent choice for families with allergy concerns.
The Shih Tzu is a small, sturdy dog breed that is both friendly and outgoing. They have a long, flowing coat that needs regular maintenance but can also be clipped short for easier grooming. Their lovable nature makes them a popular choice for families with young children. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a graceful, charming, and gentle toy breed known for their devotion to their human companions. They love to cuddle and thrive on regular social interaction.
Medium Dog Breeds for Apartments (25-50 pounds)
While small dogs may seem like the obvious choice for apartment living, there are medium-sized breeds that can make terrific companions in more compact spaces as well. These dogs possess the perfect balance of adaptability, temperament, and energy levels, making them great for urban dwellers who prefer a moderately-sized pet. Explore our list of medium-sized dog breeds that thrive in apartments and get to know their unique characteristics to find the perfect furry addition to your home.
The affectionate and loyal Bulldog is well-suited for apartment life due to their relaxed nature, but they require regular cleaning of facial folds and may be prone to heat sensitivity.
With their charming personality and adaptable nature, Dachshunds fit well in apartments; however, early socialization and providing appropriate exercise can help prevent excessive barking and maintain their spinal health.
The friendly and easy-going French Bulldog thrives in apartments, but owners should be mindful of their sensitivity to heat and the need for a consistent cleaning routine for their facial folds.
Large Dog Breeds for Apartments (51-100 pounds)
Contrary to popular belief, large dogs can be incredible apartment companions too. While their size might seem intimidating for smaller spaces, several large breeds have gentle and adaptable personalities that make them suitable for apartment living. If you’re looking for a bigger dog to share your city home with, check out our list of large dog breeds that excel in apartments and get acquainted with their distinctive traits to find your ideal four-legged roommate.
The calm and easygoing Basset Hound adapts well to apartment living, but owners should be mindful of their tendency to drool and provide regular exercise to avoid weight gain.
Independent and low-energy, the Chinese Shar Pei can be a good fit for apartments, but early socialization is key, and potential owners should be prepared for their unique grooming needs.
Known for their elegant and gentle nature, Greyhounds are surprisingly well-suited for apartment living due to their low energy levels indoors, provided they receive regular outdoor exercise.
The intelligent, hypoallergenic Standard Poodle can make an excellent apartment companion as long as owners are willing to provide regular grooming, mental stimulation, and daily exercise.
While large and athletic, Rhodesian Ridgebacks can be well-adapted to apartment living, thanks to their calm indoor demeanor, as long as they receive sufficient daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Calm and Quiet Giant Dog Breeds for Apartments (over 100 pounds)
Despite their massive size, the docile and low-energy English Mastiff is well-suited for apartment living, as long as they receive regular short walks and ample space to rest comfortably.
Known as gentle giants, Great Danes are large dogs with a calm and laid-back demeanor, making them surprisingly well-adapted to apartment living, as long as they receive regular moderate exercise.
The largest of the Giant breeds, the Irish Wolfhound is a gentle, quiet, and patient dog that can adapt well to apartment living, as long as they receive daily outdoor exercise and have space to stretch out.
The Benefits of Pet Insurance, Even for Apartment Dogs!
No matter your dog’s size or breed, their health is a top priority. Caring for your apartment dog involves regular checkups, grooming, and a nutritious diet. However, unexpected illnesses or injuries can still happen, making pet insurance essential for responsible pet ownership.
Embrace Pet Insurance offers comprehensive coverage tailored to your apartment dog’s unique needs. Our flexible plans cover various medical expenses, including accidents, illnesses, chronic conditions, and breed-specific health issues. We also emphasize pet wellness to ensure your companion receives the vital routine care they need.
With our knowledgeable team of pet lovers and insurance experts, we help pet parents navigate the complexities of pet healthcare, providing peace of mind and financial security. Embrace Pet Insurance believes every pet deserves a lifetime of love, protection, and care. Consider investing in pet insurance for your apartment dog and relish a worry-free life together.