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Don’t let apartment living deter you from having a dog. Not all breeds need large spaces to get out energy, or access to a yard, in order to live a happy life. Many dogs are content with small spaces, staying indoors and lounging on the couch or dog bed, moseying along only when they need to do their business. Not all dogs are meant for apartment living, but there’s plenty of breeds that are well-suited for this lifestyle. That could mean they are little dogs with high energy, but don’t need a lot of space to get it out. Or, they could be big dogs who are lazy to the bone, and don’t need much room to roam.  

When choosing an apartment dog, it’s important to consider a few things. For one, is the breed known for barking, and if so, will this put you in bad standing with your neighbours? How does the dog do with strangers, especially when confined in an elevator? Let’s take a look at the top apartment dogs.

Top 10 Apartment Dogs Breeds according to the American Kennel Club

1. French Bulldogs

French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds for good reason. They're adaptable, smart and very playful. Frenchies only need a brisk walk a day to stay fit, which makes them a great breed choice for apartment dwellers. A Frenchie will be your best buddy to binge Netflix on the couch all day, with the occasional play break.

2. Bulldogs

This is a dog with an unmistakable face and a memorable personality. While Bulldogs aren’t small in size, they do fair well in small spaces. They generally need a moderate amount of exercise, but are happiest when curled up on a comfy cushion, snoozing away. Be sure to keep the air conditioning on when it’s hot and humid outside, as Bulldogs don’t fair well in high temperatures. 

3. Yorkshire Terriers

These prissy-looking pint-sized pals certainly don’t take up much space. The tallest they grow is eight inches, and they don’t tend to get bigger than seven pounds. That, paired with their hypoallergenic fur, makes them great dogs for apartment living. Don’t let their size fool you—Yorkshire Terrier also make vocal guard dogs. 

4. Dachshunds

The unmistakable Dachshund is famous for its low, long-backed body, short legs and vibrant personality. Its curious, colourful and friendly demeanour makes the Dachshund breed a great apartment dog. For everywhere that they shine, Dachshunds aren’t exactly known for their athleticism and simply aren’t built for things like distance running, swimming or leaping. This does mean, however, that they’re great to living in small spaces where exercise is limited.

5. Miniature Schnauzers

Miniature Schnauzers are the smallest of the three Schnauzer breeds. Bred with strong observant skills, Miniature Schnauzers make for great watchdogs, protective of you and your home. Apartments are suitable for this breed due to their size. They live long and healthy lives, barely shed, and are able to travel quite easily.

6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

This is an alert but even-tempered chum who is very flexible about living arrangements. Depending on their humans’ lifestyle, Cavs can adapt to a high energy routine, or one that involves a lot of downtime. Regardless of the pace of their day to day living, you can always count on Cavs to be loyal companions.

7. Shih Tzu

The regal lineage of this breed is part of what makes them ideal apartment dwellers. Even though they were originally been bred for Chinese palace living, Shih Tzus don’t need much space to roam. They much prefer lounging with their humans, with loads of cuddles. Shih Tzus are also very patient and affectionate with children. 

8. Boston Terriers

Because of their compact size—no more than 25 pounds—Boston Terriers make great apartment dogs and do well in urban areas. They have bounds of energy and love going for walks or a spin around the dog park.T hey move with a wiggle in their step and their curly tail makes them the pig of the dog world. Bostons are friendly, curious and people-oriented.

9. Pomeranians

Pomeranians are puffballs with personality. With their hilarious bravado and self-assured attitude, they tend to be unaware of their small stature. However, it is this small size that makes them a great apartment dog. Poms are high energy but don’t need a huge amount of space to get it all out. They’re great with indoor play or short walks, which makes them great for city living or suburb life.

10. Havanese

This fancy-haired breed thrives in social settings, making them the bon vivants of the dog world. It’s part of makes them  good for apartment living, where shared spaces like elevators and lobbies are hard to ignore. They are happy just about anywhere, and with just about anyone, young or old,  as long as they’re showered with attention.