Best Small Dog Breeds for Apartment Living

Choosing the best small dog for apartment living means looking for breeds with low exercise needs, minimal barking, and adaptable temperaments. Top choices often include the French Bulldog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Pug, Bichon Frise, and Shih Tzu, as they generally thrive in smaller spaces with proper care and attention.

Finding the perfect furry friend when you live in an apartment can feel like a big puzzle. You want a dog that fits your space, doesn’t need endless outdoor adventures, and won’t upset the neighbors with constant barking. It’s a common concern for city dwellers and anyone with limited yard space. But don’t worry! This guide is here to make that choice easy and stress-free. We’ll explore the best small dog breeds that truly shine in apartment settings, helping you find a happy, healthy companion for your home.

Best Small Dog Breeds for Apartment Living

Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the wonderful companionship of a dog. In fact, many small breeds are perfectly suited for urban environments and smaller homes. The key is to understand what makes a dog “apartment-friendly.” It’s not just about size; temperament, exercise requirements, and barking tendencies play a huge role.

What Makes a Dog Apartment-Friendly?

When selecting a canine companion for apartment life, consider these crucial factors:

• Size: While small dogs are generally preferred, even some medium-sized breeds can do well if they have low energy.
• Energy Level: Low to moderate energy dogs are ideal. They’re content with shorter walks and indoor play.
• Barking Tendency: Excessive barking can be a major issue in apartments, so quieter breeds are often better.
• Temperament: Adaptable, calm, and easygoing personalities thrive in close quarters.
• Trainability: A well-behaved, house-trained dog is essential for apartment living.
• Grooming Needs: While not directly related to apartment living, consider if you have the time for high-maintenance grooming.

Top Small Dog Breeds That Excel in Apartments

Here’s a detailed look at some of the best small dog breeds known for their suitability for apartment living:

1. French Bulldog

French Bulldogs are one of the most popular choices for apartment dwellers, and for good reason. They are compact, muscular dogs with distinctive bat ears and an endearing personality. They typically weigh between 16-28 pounds.

• Temperament: Affectionate, charming, playful, and relatively calm indoors. They love to be with their people.
• Exercise Needs: Low. A couple of short walks a day or some indoor playtime is usually enough. They are prone to overheating, so avoid strenuous exercise in hot weather.
• Barking Level: Moderate. They can be alert barkers but aren’t typically excessive.
• Grooming: Low. A weekly brush keeps their short coat healthy.
• Apartment Suitability: Excellent. Their calm nature and low exercise needs make them perfect for small spaces. They are content to lounge on the sofa with their family.

2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a true lap dog, known for its gentle nature and beautiful, expressive eyes. They weigh around 13-18 pounds and are incredibly adaptable.

• Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, eager to please, and highly adaptable. They get along well with everyone, including children and other pets.
• Exercise Needs: Moderate. They enjoy daily walks and playtime but are equally happy cuddling on the couch.
• Barking Level: Low to moderate. They can bark at new sounds but are not typically nuisance barkers.
• Grooming: Moderate. Their silky coat requires regular brushing to prevent mats.
• Apartment Suitability: Excellent. Their loving nature and willingness to adapt to their owner’s lifestyle make them ideal apartment companions.

3. Pug

Pugs are famous for their wrinkled faces, curly tails, and charmingly comical personalities. These sturdy little dogs typically weigh 14-18 pounds.

• Temperament: Playful, charming, mischievous, and very devoted to their families. They thrive on human companionship.
• Exercise Needs: Low. Short walks and indoor play are sufficient. Like French Bulldogs, they are brachycephalic (flat-faced) and prone to overheating.
• Barking Level: Moderate. They can be prone to snoring and snorting due to their flat faces, but their barking is usually manageable.
• Grooming: Moderate. They shed quite a bit, so regular brushing is needed.
• Apartment Suitability: Excellent. Pugs are content to be couch potatoes and require minimal outdoor space, making them perfect for apartment living.

4. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a cheerful, fluffy white dog that looks like a cotton ball. They are small, weighing 12-18 pounds, and have a wonderfully outgoing personality.

• Temperament: Cheerful, playful, affectionate, and intelligent. They love to entertain and be the center of attention.
• Exercise Needs: Moderate. Daily walks and indoor games keep them happy. They have bursts of energy followed by long naps.
• Barking Level: Moderate. They can be prone to barking if not properly trained, especially when left alone.
• Grooming: High. Their non-shedding coat requires daily brushing and professional grooming every 4-6 weeks to prevent matting.
• Apartment Suitability: Very Good. Their small size and relatively adaptable energy make them great apartment dogs, provided their grooming needs are met and barking is managed.

5. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are delightful “lion dogs” known for their long, flowing coats and friendly disposition. They typically weigh 9-16 pounds.

• Temperament: Outgoing, affectionate, charming, and a bit stubborn. They love to cuddle and are excellent lap dogs.
• Exercise Needs: Low. Short daily walks and indoor play are all they need. They are not built for strenuous activity.
• Barking Level: Moderate. They can be prone to barking at strangers or new sounds but can be trained.
• Grooming: High. Their long coat requires daily brushing to prevent mats and tangles, plus regular professional grooming.
• Apartment Suitability: Excellent. Their small size, low exercise needs, and desire for companionship make them ideal apartment dwellers.

6. Dachshund

Dachshunds, with their distinctive long bodies and short legs, come in standard and miniature sizes. Miniatures are usually 8-11 pounds.

• Temperament: Lively, curious, brave, and sometimes stubborn. They are very loyal to their families.
• Exercise Needs: Moderate. Daily walks are important to keep their backs strong and prevent obesity.
• Barking Level: High. Dachshunds are known for being vocal and can be prone to barking at anything they deem suspicious.
• Grooming: Low (smooth and wire-haired) to moderate (long-haired).
• Apartment Suitability: Good. Their small size is a plus, but their barking tendency and need for consistent training require dedicated owners.

7. Yorkshire Terrier

The “Yorkie” is a tiny dog with a big personality, weighing typically under 7 pounds. They are known for their long, silky, blue and tan coat.

• Temperament: Spirited, feisty, confident, and affectionate with their families. They often think they are much larger than they are.
• Exercise Needs: Low to moderate. Indoor play and short walks are usually enough.
• Barking Level: High. Yorkies are known for being alert barkers and can be quite vocal.
• Grooming: High. Their long coat requires daily brushing to prevent tangles and regular trims.
• Apartment Suitability: Good. Their tiny size is perfect for small spaces, but their barking and sometimes demanding nature require consistent training and socialization.

8. Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are the smallest dog breed, typically weighing no more than 6 pounds. They are feisty and full of personality.

• Temperament: Loyal, sassy, charming, and sometimes a bit bossy. They bond strongly with one or two people.
• Exercise Needs: Very Low. Indoor play and very short walks are often sufficient. They can get enough exercise just running around an apartment.
• Barking Level: High. Chihuahuas are notorious for being alert barkers and can be quite yappy.
• Grooming: Low (smooth coat) to moderate (long coat).
• Apartment Suitability: Excellent, if their barking is managed. Their tiny size and minimal exercise needs make them ideal for small living spaces.

9. Maltese

The Maltese is a toy breed known for its long, flowing white coat and gentle demeanor. They typically weigh under 7 pounds.

• Temperament: Gentle, playful, charming, and very affectionate. They thrive on companionship and love to be pampered.
• Exercise Needs: Low. Indoor play and short, leisurely walks are usually enough.
• Barking Level: Moderate. They can be prone to barking if not trained or if left alone for long periods.
• Grooming: High. Their long, silky coat requires daily brushing to prevent mats and regular professional grooming.
• Apartment Suitability: Excellent. Their small size, low exercise needs, and desire for close human contact make them perfect for apartment living, provided their grooming needs are met.

10. Havanese

The Havanese is the national dog of Cuba, known for its long, silky coat and lively personality. They typically weigh 7-13 pounds.

• Temperament: Outgoing, playful, intelligent, and very social. They are known for their clownish antics and love to entertain.
• Exercise Needs: Moderate. Daily walks and interactive play sessions are important to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.
• Barking Level: Moderate. They can be alert barkers but are generally not excessive.
• Grooming: High. Their long, double coat requires daily brushing to prevent mats and tangles.
• Apartment Suitability: Very Good. Their adaptable nature and relatively moderate exercise needs make them suitable for apartments, especially if they receive enough mental stimulation.

11. Boston Terrier

Often called “the American Gentleman,” the Boston Terrier is a compact, well-muscled dog with a friendly disposition. They typically weigh 10-25 pounds.

• Temperament: Friendly, lively, intelligent, and charming. They are devoted companions and generally get along well with everyone.
• Exercise Needs: Moderate. Daily walks and indoor play are sufficient. Like other brachycephalic breeds, they can overheat easily.
• Barking Level: Low to moderate. They are not typically excessive barkers.
• Grooming: Low. Their short, smooth coat requires minimal brushing.
• Apartment Suitability: Excellent. Their compact size, relatively low exercise needs, and good temperament make them ideal apartment dogs.

12. Miniature Poodle

Miniature Poodles are elegant, intelligent dogs, standing 10-15 inches tall and weighing 10-15 pounds. They are highly trainable and have a non-shedding coat.

• Temperament: Highly intelligent, eager to please, active, and playful. They are very adaptable and bond closely with their families.
• Exercise Needs: Moderate. They need daily walks and mental stimulation to prevent boredom. Their intelligence means they thrive on training and puzzle toys.
• Barking Level: Moderate. They can be alert barkers but are not usually excessive if well-exercised and trained.
• Grooming: High. Their curly, non-shedding coat requires regular brushing and professional grooming every 4-6 weeks.
• Apartment Suitability: Excellent. Despite their energy, their intelligence and trainability make them highly adaptable to apartment living, provided their mental and physical needs are met.

Comparison of Top Apartment-Friendly Small Dog Breeds

To help you compare, here’s a quick overview of some key characteristics:

Breed	Avg. Weight (lbs)	Exercise Needs	Barking Tendency	Grooming Needs	Apartment Suitability
French Bulldog	16-28	Low	Moderate	Low	Excellent
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel	13-18	Moderate	Low to Moderate	Moderate	Excellent
Pug	14-18	Low	Moderate	Moderate	Excellent
Bichon Frise	12-18	Moderate	Moderate	High	Very Good
Shih Tzu	9-16	Low	Moderate	High	Excellent
Dachshund	8-11 (Mini)	Moderate	High	Low to Moderate	Good
Yorkshire Terrier	Under 7	Low to Moderate	High	High	Good
Chihuahua	Under 6	Very Low	High	Low to Moderate	Excellent
Maltese	Under 7	Low	Moderate	High	Excellent
Havanese	7-13	Moderate	Moderate	High	Very Good
Boston Terrier	10-25	Moderate	Low to Moderate	Low	Excellent
Miniature Poodle	10-15	Moderate	Moderate	High	Excellent

Beyond Breed: What Else Matters for Apartment Dogs?

While choosing the right breed is a great start, successful apartment living with a dog also depends heavily on your commitment to their well-being.

Training and Socialization

Regardless of breed, a well-trained and socialized dog is a happy apartment dweller. Early puppy training and ongoing socialization help your dog learn good manners, cope with new environments, and reduce anxiety. This includes house-training, leash manners, and basic obedience commands.

Exercise and Mental Stimulation

Even low-energy dogs need regular exercise and mental stimulation. Short, frequent walks are better than one long one. Indoor play, puzzle toys, and training sessions can burn off energy and keep their minds engaged. A bored dog is often a destructive or noisy dog.

• Daily Walks: Aim for at least two short walks a day, even for breeds with low needs.
• Indoor Play: Fetch in the hallway, hide-and-seek, or tug-of-war can provide great exercise.
• Puzzle Toys: These dispense treats as your dog solves a problem, keeping them mentally active. Consider investing in a durable KONG Classic Dog Toy for hours of entertainment.
• Training: Regular training sessions, even just 10-15 minutes a day, provide mental stimulation and reinforce good behavior.

Creating a Dog-Friendly Apartment Space

Make your apartment a comfortable haven for your dog. Provide a cozy bed or crate where they can retreat. Ensure they have access to fresh water at all times. Dog-proof your space by removing hazards and securing anything you don’t want chewed.

Dealing with Barking

Some breeds are naturally more vocal, but excessive barking can be managed. Identify the cause (boredom, anxiety, alert barking) and address it with training, increased exercise, or professional help. Positive reinforcement and consistency are key.

Vet Care and Nutrition

Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for your dog’s health. Discuss appropriate nutrition with your vet, as diet plays a vital role in their overall well-being and energy levels. Just as it’s important for cats, understanding Cat Vaccination Schedule and Cost: Protecting Your Feline Friend is key for feline owners, so too is regular vet care for your canine companion.

Essential Supplies for Apartment Dogs

Having the right gear makes apartment living with your dog much smoother:

Item	Purpose	Considerations for Apartments
Comfortable Dog Bed	Provides a designated, cozy spot for rest.	Size appropriate for your space; washable covers.
Appropriate Collar/Harness & Leash	For safe walks and control.	Comfortable fit; reflective for evening walks.
Food & Water Bowls	Essential for hydration and meals.	Non-slip base; stainless steel or ceramic are hygienic.
Interactive Toys	Mental stimulation and boredom relief.	Quiet toys; puzzle feeders; durable for chewing.
Grooming Supplies	Brushes, shampoo, nail clippers.	Specific to your dog’s coat type.
Waste Bags	For responsible waste disposal during walks.	Always carry enough!
Training Treats & Clicker	For positive reinforcement during training.	Small, soft, high-value treats.
Enzyme Cleaner	For accidents during house-training.	Essential for odor and stain removal on carpets/floors.

Conclusion

Choosing the best small dog breed for apartment living is about more than just size; it’s about finding a dog whose personality, energy level, and needs align with your lifestyle and living space. Breeds like the French Bulldog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Pug, Bichon Frise, and Shih Tzu consistently rank high for their adaptability and loving nature in smaller homes. Remember, regardless of the breed, a well-trained, socialized, and adequately exercised dog will thrive in an apartment environment. With careful consideration and a commitment to their well-being, you can enjoy years of happy companionship with your furry friend, even in the coziest of homes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can any small dog breed live in an apartment?

While many small dog breeds can adapt to apartment living, it’s not just about size. Breeds with lower energy levels, less tendency to bark excessively, and more adaptable temperaments are generally better suited. High-energy small dogs or those prone to constant barking might struggle without significant effort from their owners.

Q2: How much exercise does an apartment dog need?

Even small apartment-friendly dogs need daily exercise. For most, this means at least two short walks a day (15-20 minutes each) and some indoor playtime. Breeds like French Bulldogs or Pugs have lower needs, while Miniature Poodles might need a bit more activity and mental stimulation.

Q3: What if my apartment dog barks too much?

Excessive barking can be a common issue. Identify the cause: is it boredom, anxiety, alert barking, or attention-seeking? Address the root cause with increased exercise, mental stimulation (like puzzle toys), consistent training, and potentially professional help from a dog trainer or behaviorist. Never punish barking, but redirect and reward quiet behavior.

Q4: Do apartment dogs need a crate?

Crates are highly recommended for apartment dogs. A crate provides a safe, den-like space for your dog to retreat to, aids in house-training, and can prevent destructive behaviors when you’re not home. Introduce the crate positively, making it a comfortable place your dog enjoys.

Q5: How can I keep my apartment dog entertained indoors?

Indoor entertainment is crucial. Use interactive toys like puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing toys. Engage in short training sessions to mentally stimulate them. Play indoor games like fetch, hide-and-seek, or tug-of-war. Regular walks and trips to a dog park (if safe and appropriate for your dog) are also vital for physical and mental well-being.

Q6: Are apartment dogs prone to separation anxiety?

Any dog can develop separation anxiety, regardless of size or living situation, but it can be more noticeable in apartments due to close quarters and potential noise complaints. Breeds that are very attached to their owners (like Cavaliers or Maltese) might be more prone. Gradual desensitization, leaving for short periods, and providing enrichment can help prevent or manage it.

Q7: Should I consider adopting an older small dog for apartment living?

Absolutely! Older small dogs are often excellent choices for apartments. They typically have lower energy levels, are often already house-trained, and their personalities are well-established. They may require less intense exercise and are often content with a quiet, comfortable home.