What are the best dogs for apartments?

It’s a good question.

Finding the perfect canine companion for apartment living can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not sure where to begin…

While many people think that owning a dog in an apartment is not a practical option, the truth is that there are many breeds that are well-suited for this kind of lifestyle.

From tiny lap dogs to more active breeds, there are plenty of options to choose from. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best dogs suited for apartment living, exploring the unique qualities and characteristics that make them a good fit for smaller living spaces.

Whether you’re a busy urban professional or simply looking for a furry friend to share your cosy apartment with, we’re confident that you’ll find a breed that’s perfect for you.

What You Need To Consider Before Getting A Dog For Your Apartment

Bringing a dog into your life and home is a huge decision. Before we look at the best dogs for apartments there are a few things we need to consider.

Firstly, let’s look at the factors we all need to be aware of before bringing a bundle of furry joy into our apartments.

1/ Picking The Right Breed

We’ll start with the most critical factor. Choosing the right breed ensures a happy home relationship for dog parents and fur babies.

Simply put, some dog breeds are better suited for apartment living than others.

Firstly, make sure you consider the size, energy level, and temperament of the breed you’re interested in.

Don’t worry if you’re unsure, we’re going to cover all the best breeds down below.

2/ The Size of Your Apartment

Once you’ve picked a breed well-suited to apartment living, it’s important to make sure your apartment is big enough. After all, you want your dog to have space where they’re comfortable, with room to stretch and play too!

Take a look at the layout of your apartment and how much space you have for the dog to play, sleep, and relax.

You might find that you need to move a few bits around to make ample space, but it’s more than worth it to help your new best friend feel at home.

3/ Exercise Needs

All dogs need exercise, even if they’re living in an apartment.

You need to know how much time you have to take your dog on walks, and whether there are parks or other outdoor areas nearby where your dog can get some exercise.

We also don’t want our doggies to be relieving themselves on the apartment carpet! So, think about how and where you’re going to potty train them.

4/ Noise Level

Different dogs have different habits, especially when it comes to communicating. Some dogs bark more than others which – as you might guess- can be a problem in an apartment building.

That’s why you need to consider whether your dog is likely to bark a lot and whether you’ll be able to manage its barking behaviour.

Your neighbours will thank you for it!

5/ Landlord Policies

A seemingly obvious but alas, often overlooked factor is whether or not you’re allowed a dog in your apartment!

Nip this in the bud by making sure your landlord allows dogs in the building, and find out whether there are any restrictions on breed, size, or number of dogs allowed.

The last thing you want is an angry landlord threatening your newfound bond…

6/ Your Lifestyle

One of the most important questions you need to ask yourself before becoming a dog parent is whether you have the time and resources to care for a dog.

Remember, dogs are more than just cute, cuddly companions. They’re family for life and require attention, training, and regular vet visits, as well as time for exercise and play.

If you’re concerned that you mightn’t have enough time, then look into spoiling them monthly with our fantastic BusterBoxs packed full of memory-making magic.

Find out more about why we’re the best dog treat box in the UK & Ire.

7/ Financial Considerations

Caring for canines can be an expensive business.

Dogs aren’t cheap, and it’s important to consider the costs of food, vet bills, and other supplies when deciding whether to get a dog.

Taking all these things into consideration can be tricky, so we’re going to show you our BusterBox recommended best dogs for apartments.

The Best Dogs For Apartments

We took our time in devising this list. You see, finding out what the best dogs for apartments isn’t an open and shut-list. There are several factors which may be of interest to you depending on your living situation.

So, to make things as clear as possible we’ve categorised each dogs best traits for apartment living.

Let’s get started!

1/ The French Bulldog

The French Bulldog or “Frenchie”, is a massive fan favourite for apartment living. They’ve often been touted as the perfect dog for city living.

Let’s check out why.

Size: French Bulldogs are small dogs, typically weighing between 16-28 pounds, which makes them a good fit for smaller living spaces.

Temperament: French Bulldogs are known for their affectionate and easygoing nature. They are friendly and get along well with other people and animals, which can make them perfect for apartment living.

Exercise needs: While French Bulldogs require regular exercise, they do not need as much physical activity as some other breeds. They are happy out with short walks or indoor play sessions, making them a great fit for apartment living.

Grooming needs: French Bulldogs have short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming, which can be a big advantage for those in smaller living spaces.

Adaptability: French Bulldogs are generally adaptable to their living environment and can adjust well to apartment living with proper care and attention.

2/ King Charles Cavalier

The King Charles Cavaliers are beautiful lapdogs who become very attached to their owners. If their moderate exercise needs are met, they’ll be perfect for apartment living.

Let’s check out more reasons why they could be right for you.

Size: Cavaliers are small dogs, typically weighing between 13-18 pounds, which makes them comfortable with smaller living spaces.

Temperament: Cavaliers are known for their friendly and gentle nature, and they tend to get along well with other people and animals.

Exercise needs: While Cavaliers enjoy regular exercise, their breed doesn’t demand a lot of physical activity. They are content with moderate exercise, such as daily walks or indoor play, making them ideal for apartment living.

Grooming needs: Cavaliers have silky coat that requires regular brushing and grooming, but their coat is not excessively long, which can be an advantage in smaller living spaces.

Low shedding: Cavaliers are famously low shedders, which can make them a good fit for budding dog parents who are sensitive to pet dander or who prefer a cleaner living environment.

3/ Bichon Frise

The bubbly Bichon Frise is a great apartment dog. They like nothing better than curling up on your lap as you read a book or watch a movie… let’s take a look at some of the other benefits of Bichon Frise apartment living.

Size: Bichon Frise are small dogs, typically weighing between 12-18 pounds, which makes them ample size for smaller living spaces.

Temperament: Bichon Frise is known for its friendly and affectionate nature, and they get along well with animals and humans alike.

Exercise needs: While Bichon Frise enjoys regular exercise, they don’t require a lot of physical activity. They are more than happy with consistent low-level exercise, such as short, daily walks or apartment playtime.

Grooming needs: Bichon Frise have a fluffy, hypoallergenic coat that requires regular grooming, but their coat is not excessively long, which can be an advantage in smaller living spaces. They also do not shed much, which can be beneficial for people with allergies.

Trainability: Bichon Frise is intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train. This can make them well-suited for apartment living, as they can learn to adapt to the rules and routines of their living space.

4/ Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers are cute, lovable pups who suit apartments down to the ground. They stay small throughout life and are kept happy once they get their daily walk.

Other perks of a Boston Terrier include:

Size: Boston Terriers are small to medium-sized dogs, typically weighing between 10-25 pounds. Small, sturdy and a good fit for smaller living spaces.

Temperament: Boston Terriers are known for being bubbly and easygoing. Their affable nature means they get along well with most people and animals.

Exercise needs: While Boston Terriers require regular exercise, they do not need as much physical activity as some other breeds. They are generally content with short walks or indoor play sessions, making them easy going with apartment life!

Grooming needs: Boston Terriers have short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming. No need to worry about nightly hoovering!

Trainability: Boston Terriers are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train. This can make perfect for apartment life as they’ll pick up your house rules quickly.

5/ Shih Tzu

Often referred to as little lion dogs, Shih Tzus are a great breed for sharing small spaces. They offer everything you could want in an apartment companion, known for being calm and friendly around strangers, children and even other pets.

Size: Shih Tzus are small dogs, typically weighing between 9-16 pounds, which makes them a good fit for smaller living spaces.

Temperament: Shih Tzus are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, and they tend to get along well with other people and animals. They are also adaptable and can adjust to different living environments.

Exercise needs: While Shih Tzus require regular exercise, they do not need as much physical activity as some other breeds. They are generally content with short walks or indoor play sessions, making them a good fit for apartment living.

Grooming needs: Shih Tzus do have a long, luxurious coat that requires regular grooming, but their coat is not excessively long. They also aren’t big shedders which can be beneficial for any of your dog parents with allergies.

Trainability: Shih Tzus are clever and love to please! This makes them a match made in heaven for apartment training. They’ll quickly learn to adapt to the rules and routines of their living space.

6/ Pugs

Apartment living often means close-quarter relationships with neighbours. And while it may SHOCK us lovely dog parents, not everyone likes or feels comfortable around dogs.

That’s why the Pug is a great choice. They’re chill and passive meaning you don’t have to worry about them destroying property or showing signs of aggression to your neighbours!

Size: Pugs are cute, small dogs, typically weighing between 14-18 pounds

Temperament: Pugs are known for their affectionate and playful nature, and they have no issues getting on well with other people and animals. They’re also adaptable and can comfortably adjust to different living environments.

Exercise needs: While Pugs require regular exercise, they do not need as much physical activity as some other breeds. Just make sure you bring them out daily and provide them with plenty of playtime!

Grooming needs: Pugs have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming. One less thing for you to be worrying about!

Trainability: Pugs are intelligent and eager to please their loving dog parents! You won’t find any problems with training. This can make them well-suited for apartment living, as they can learn to adapt to the rules and routines of their living space.

7/ Yorkshire Terrier

The cute Yorkshire Terrier or “Yorkie”  take out a lot of the worry that comes with leaving them home alone. They’re intelligent enough to handle staying in the apartment and are well able to entertain themselves while you’re out.

Size: Yorkies are tiny, cute dogs, usually weighing between 4-7 pounds. Perfect if your apartment is on the small side.

Temperament: Yorkshire Terriers are known for their affectionate and playful nature, and they tend to get along well with other people and animals. However, they’re fierce protectors of their owners and will require training early on to make sure they react well to the doorbell ringing…

Exercise needs: Yorkshire Terriers do require regular exercise. They love being outdoors so make sure you can bring them out daily. Keep them happy when you’re gone by leaving them loads of toys and puzzles to have fun with,

Grooming needs: Yorkshire Terriers have a long, luxurious coat that requires regular grooming but they don’t shed much.

Trainability: Yorkshire Terriers are highly intelligent and easy to train. Just make sure you put the right training in early on, and you’ll have a comfortable, happy relationship for years to come!

Final Bark

So we come to the end of another blog. While this list can provide you with guidance, ultimately, the best dogs for apartments are the ones you train well, show plenty of love to and provide with the right exercise and nutrition.

If you’re new to the world of dogs, then check out our highly informative blog, bursting with fun, digestible information that will explain the nuances of our furry friends to you!

Remember, whatever route you go down, you can harness the perfect relationship early on by providing your fur baby with a monthly box of joy with our BusterBox specials.