Are you considering adding a canine companion to your family but you live in an apartment? Selecting the best dog breeds for apartments is a very important decision. The dog’s size, exercise needs, and temperament should harmonise with your living situation.
I’m starting this list by acknowledging some bias here… I do live in an apartment and I have a (mostly) delightful little Cavoodle so naturally I’m kicking things off with this popular crossbreed.
Cavoodle
Quick facts about Cavoodles
Adv. Adult Height 25cm – 38cm / 9.8in – 14.9in
Adv. Adult Weight 5kg – 12kg / 11lbs – 26.5lbs
Coat Mostly curly, sometimes straight.
Hypoallergenic Yes
Temperament Energetic and sociable
Exercise Needs Moderate – High 60 minutes a day
Why Cavoodles make good apartment dogs.
Also known as Cavapoos, Cavoodles are one of the best dog breeds for apartments. They’re not just fluffy roommates; they’re also your best exercise buddy. Always up for a game of indoor fetch or a run around the park. Plus, their charming personality and affectionate nature make them the ultimate icebreaker in the elevator.
These teddy bear pups are usually hypoallergenic. Because of this, they are very low shedders which is ideal for those with allergies. There’s a little trick here though. There are three different coats that cavoodles can have and each with its own characteristics. This is important to note having a dog that doesn’t shed is important to you. Straight haired Cavoodles will shed more than curly or wavy-haired cavoodles but they require much less grooming.
They can vary greatly in size mostly depending on the size of the poodle parent. For example, their weights can be anywhere from 5-12kg so if you’re looking for a small dog be sure to ask the size of the pups parents.
The downsides
Lots of grooming…
The fur on these little guys grows quite quickly. Because of this, the common curly-haired Cavoodle requires brushing every week and clipping every 6-8 weeks to keep their coat looking its best. This is especially important in the warmer months.
Ball is life
Poodles require a lot of exercise and because Cavoodles are half Poodle some cavoodles require more exercise time than others and can be very ball focused. These pups do still love to cuddle on the couch but they also love a good run in the park and will also need to have some quality inside games.
Find out more
Want to learn more about cavoodles? Check out these articles…
– Pet Barn Cavoodle Information
– Coops & Cages Ultimate guide to Cavoodles
– Purina Cavoodle Information
French Bulldog
Quick facts about French Bulldogs
Adv. Adult Height 30cm / 12 inches
Adv Adult Weight 7-12kg / 16-28 pounds
Coat Sleek and smooth. They do shedding.
Hypoallergenic No
Temperament Affectionate and Easygoing
Exercise Needs Moderate – 45-60 minutes a day
Why French Bulldogs make good apartment dogs.
Affectionally named “frenchies” these tiny bulldogs are a great choice for apartment living. When looking at the best dog breeds for apartments size is obviously an important factor. Frenchies are small in size, content with short daily walks and very happy lounging indoors. These little balls of muscle are quite affectionate making them wonderful companions for those looking for a dog that likes to cuddle on the couch.
French bulldogs need relatively little exercise compared to other breeds. Around 45 to 60 minutes should keep these little guys happy. This can be broken into two or three smaller walks throughout the day. Their adorable flat face can create breathing issues so they are better suited to walks rather than runs. Because of these breathing troubles, you should also try to avoid walking them in the warmest parts of the day.
These little balls of muscle will sleep 12-14 hours a day but when they are awake they can be quite active! Like any dog, they love to run around and have fun but a small apartment and daily walks will be enough to keep these pups happy.
The downsides…
Separation anxiety
French bulldogs are prone to separation anxiety so if you need a dog you can leave at home while you’re out at work they may not be the best fit for you. A distressed pup home alone in an apartment might result in some attitude from the other people in your building…
If you do need to leave your pup home alone check out our post on keeping your dog entertained while your at work.
Stairs are tricky
Sometimes Frenchies can have trouble getting up and down stairs. This increases as they get older as they are notorious for hip issues later in life. Because of this bottom floor apartments are best for French Bulldogs.
Find out more
Want to learn more about French Bulldogs? Check out these articles…
– Pet Plan French Bulldog information
– American Kennel Club French Bulldog information
– Dogs NSW French Bulldog information
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Quick facts about Cavaliers
Adv. Adult Height 30cm / 12 inches
Adv. Adult Weight 4.5-9kg / 10 – 19 lbs
Coat Long and silky. Moderate shedding. High Maintenance.
Hypoallergenic No
Temperament Gentle and Adaptable
Exercise Needs Moderate – 40-60 minutes a day
Why Cavaliers make good apartment dogs.
When looking for the best dog breeds for apartments you can’t go past Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Their small size makes them a natural fit for compact living spaces and their relaxed temperament means they’re just as content snuggling up on the couch as they are going for a leisurely stroll around the block.
When you are living in an apartment keeping your neighbours happy is, of course, super important. With Cavaliers friendly and sociable nature you should have minimal issues with neighbours and other pets. They are also not generally big barkers but just like other beeds they can become a bit vocal if they are bored or stressed.
Originally bred as lap dogs Cavaliers love nothing more than some solid cuddle time with their favourite humans. So if you are looking for a couch time cuddle buddy this is the pup for you.
Like most dogs Cavaliers love a good walk. An hour of exercise a day is generally enough to keep these little guys happy and healthy. This can be broken up into a few smaller walks and some good active play time in side totally counts too.
The downsides…
High Maintenance Hair Doos.
Cavaliers have such beautiful long coats however to keep these guys looking and feeling their best they do need constant grooming. With this in mind, daily brushing is usually recommended. And possibly more in high shedding months.
Health Issues
Unfortunately, Cavaliers are known for having a number of health issues. These can include heart disease, hip dysplasia, eye diseases, loose knee joints and itchy allergies.
All dogs have their common health issues so I wouldn’t let this put you off…
Find out more
Want to learn more about Cavaliers? Check out these articles…
– Purina Cavalier information
– Pet Barn Cavalier information
– Dog Time Cavalier information
Pug
Quick facts about Pugs
Adv. Adult Height 30-36cm / 11.8-14in
Adv. Adult Weight 6-9kg / 14-18 lbs
Coat Short and smooth. Shedding.
Hypoallergenic No
Temperament Playful and affectionate
Exercise Needs Moderate 30-60 minutes a day
Why Pugs make good apartment dogs.
Pugs are one of the best dog breeds for apartments. With their compact size and endearing personalities, they’re tailor-made for cozy urban spaces. These little pups are quite content with short daily walks and indoor play and they can often prefer a good snooze over exercise.
Pugs are renowned for their easygoing temperament, which makes them a breeze to live with in close quarters, and their charming, wrinkled faces are sure to win over your neighbours.
In a nutshell, pugs bring warmth, fun and a big dose of love to apartment life, making them an ideal choice for those looking to add some canine cheer to their urban abode.
The downsides…
Breathing Issues
Pugs can often suffer from a disease called Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome. This is because their cute, squishy little faces can often have deformed skulls behind them. If their nostrils are too too small, their airflow can be obstructed leaving the doggos struggling to breathe.
These breathing issues can also mean they are prone to snoring. Consequently, if this is going to bother you, perhaps look into a breed with a longer nose…
Separation Anxiety
These cute little pups love love love their humans and really don’t like being left alone. This is said to be a result of them being bred to be companion pups they like to be around their humans all the time which makes them great couch cuddlers but can result in issues with separation anxiety.
It’s generally recommended not to leave your pug for more than 4 hours at a time.
Find out more
Want to learn more about Pugs? Check out these articles…
– Pet Barn Pug Information
– Greencross Vets Pug Information
– Hills Shih Tzu information
Shih Tzu
Quick facts about Shih Tzus
Adv. Adult Height 22cm / 9in
Adv. Adult Weight 6kg / 13lbs
Coat Long straight. Light shedding.
Hypoallergenic Yes
Temperament Playful and friendly.
Exercise Needs Moderate 40-60 minutes a day
Why Shih Tzus make good apartment dogs.
Shih Tzus’ small size and calm demeanour make them ideal apartment companions. They do require regular grooming due to their long coat. However, their loving nature is worth the extra care. Also, on the plus side, their coats are hypoallergenic which is great news for any allergy sufferers.
They tend not to be big barkers which is of course an ideal trait for an apartment doggo.
These loveable fur balls love a good snuggle and they’re always happy to curl up on the couch with their humans. Having said this, just like other breads they of course need exercise. Shih Tzus tend to prefer multiple short walks a day to fill their exercise quota for the day. For example, you could take them for three 20-minute walks and they would be very happy.
The downsides…
High maintenance coats
As already mentioned these pups do require a substantial amount of grooming. For example, their long luscious locks will need grooming every 4-6 weeks. This can be a lot of effort and a costly process if you’re going to a professional groomer.
Small dog syndrome
Some Shih Tzus might get a little territorial when other dogs are around. As a result, they can get quite vocal, become jealous and possessive of their owners and be a little reluctant to obey commands.
Find out more
Want to learn more about Shih Tzus? Check out these articles…
– Dog Time Shih Tzu information
– American Kennel Club Shih Tzu information
– Hills Shih Tzu information
Boston Terrier
Quick facts about Boston Terriers
Adv. Adult Height 38cm / 15in
Adv. Adult Weight 11kg / 24lbs
Coat Short Smooth Coat. Average shedding.
Hypoallergenic No
Temperament Friendly and intelligent
Exercise Needs Moderate 30-60 minutes a day
Why Boston Terriers make good apartment dogs.
Compact and friendly, Boston Terriers are one of the best dog breeds for apartments. They have a friendly disposition and enjoy spending time with their human family members.
They may be small but Boston Terriers are full of energy and enjoy their exercise. For example, a mix of walks, running around at the dog park and mental stimulation with activities like training and puzzle toys are the perfect mix to maintain these pups’ exercise needs.
Boston Terriers’ smooth, short coat is unfortunately not hypoallergenic but they do require very little grooming. They will shed but no more than your average dog.
The downsides…
Snoring
Their cute, squishy faces do tend to cause some snorting, wheezing and snoring. However, some find these noises endearing and even comforting. But it’s not everyone’s cup of tea…
Struggle with exercise
Because of their shortened muzzles, many Boston Terriers have a hard time with strenuous exercise because they don’t have an adequate way to dispel heat. This also means they can have trouble in extreme.
Find out more
Want to learn more about Boston Terriers? Check out these articles…
– Pet Circle Boston Terrier Guide
– Daily Paws Boston Terrier Information
– Pet Barn Boston Terrier information
Choosing a dog breed that suits apartment living is essential for both you and your furry friend’s happiness. The breeds mentioned above are known for their adaptability, size, and temperament, making them excellent choices for apartment dwellers. However it’s important to remember while breed traits provide general guidance, individual dogs may vary in behaviour and needs. Consider factors like exercise routines, socialization, and training to ensure a well-balanced and content life for your apartment-friendly pup. With the right breed and proper care, you can enjoy the companionship of a loving and happy dog in your apartment.
