Best Dogs for Apartments

Living in an apartment doesn't mean you can't have a dog. These breeds thrive in smaller spaces thanks to their calm temperament, moderate exercise needs, and lower barking tendencies. They're perfectly happy curling up on the couch after a good walk around the block.

1
smallNon-Sportingplayfuladaptable

A playful, adaptable companion with bat-like ears and a charming personality. French Bulldogs thrive in city apartments and make excellent companions for singles and families alike.

Scores 5/5 for apartment living with a moderate energy level and quiet barking tendency.

Energy

Trainability

Shedding

Size

small

2
mediumNon-Sportingdocilewillful

The gentle, courageous Bulldog is a beloved symbol of determination. Despite their muscular build, they are calm and friendly companions who prefer lounging on the couch to long hikes.

Scores 5/5 for apartment living with a low energy level and quiet barking tendency.

Energy

Trainability

Shedding

Size

medium

4
smallToycharmingmischievous

A charming, mischievous companion with an expressive wrinkled face. Pugs are natural comedians who live to love and be loved, making them perfect lap dogs for anyone.

Scores 5/5 for apartment living with a low energy level and quiet barking tendency.

Energy

Trainability

Shedding

Size

small

5
smallNon-Sportingfriendlylively

Nicknamed 'The American Gentleman' for their tuxedo-like markings, Boston Terriers are friendly, lively, and endlessly entertaining. They are compact, well-mannered city dogs.

Scores 5/5 for apartment living with a moderate energy level and quiet barking tendency.

Energy

Trainability

Shedding

Size

small

6
smallToyaffectionateoutgoing

An ancient royal companion bred for Chinese emperors, the Shih Tzu is a charming, outgoing lap dog. They are affectionate with everyone they meet and thrive on human companionship.

Scores 5/5 for apartment living with a low energy level and moderate barking tendency.

Energy

Trainability

Shedding

Size

small

7
smallToycheerfulintelligent

Cuba's national treasure, the Havanese is a cheerful, silky-coated companion that wins hearts everywhere. They are outgoing, funny, and thrive on human attention.

Scores 5/5 for apartment living with a moderate energy level and moderate barking tendency.

Energy

Trainability

Shedding

Size

small

8
smallNon-Sportingplayfulcurious

A cheerful, puffy white powder puff of a dog with an irresistible personality. Bichon Frises are hypoallergenic, joyful, and get along with everyone they meet.

Scores 5/5 for apartment living with a moderate energy level and moderate barking tendency.

Energy

Trainability

Shedding

Size

small

9
smallToygentleplayful

An aristocratic toy breed with a flowing white coat and gentle, playful personality. The Maltese has been a cherished lap dog for millennia and is surprisingly spirited for its tiny size.

Scores 5/5 for apartment living with a moderate energy level and frequent barking tendency.

Energy

Trainability

Shedding

Size

small

10
smallHoundcleverstubborn

Bold and tenacious with a distinctive elongated body, the Dachshund is a spirited companion. Originally bred for hunting badgers, they are fearless, clever, and endlessly entertaining.

Scores 4/5 for apartment living with a moderate energy level and frequent barking tendency.

Energy

Trainability

Shedding

Size

small

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