40+ Best Apartment Dogs : Dog Breeds For Small Living

By Alberto Roy

Updated on:

Little dog breed owners are rising their Best Apartment Dogs as apartment dwelling has been more popular than ever. Even a 2016 Census of Population found that 10 percent of Australians (2,348,434) live in apartments.

This contrasts 1,214,372 inhabited flats, With nearly half (47 percent ) living in NSW. There’s currently 1 occupied flat to every 5 houses in Australia, in comparison to 1 7 homes in 1991.

Best Dogs for Apartments

While Australians are taking up apartment Living, dogs have become the most frequent Aussie pet. So common, in actuality, there is 1 dog a 5 people, with a total estimation of 4.8 million dogs in Australia.

All these pint-sized pups are right at home in Any tiny space.

Cramped quarters do not indicate that you can’t own a pup. Sure, to be able to Adopt a large dog such as a husky or a shepherd, you’d probably want an area that’s big enough for Fido to roam.

But lucky for dog enthusiasts everywhere, there are Loads of little dog Breeds which would be happy in an apartment.

So what sets these apartment-friendly dogs besides other pups? For starters, most of them are modest in proportion.

In addition, Many are laid back, low-shed, and known for Getting polite and silent (something your neighbors will thank you for even if they see you in the elevator or lobby, or notice you through the walls).

The most important thing when Picking a dog is to Pick the Breed that’s right for you and your lifestyle.

According to the American Kennel Club, these Adorable breeds accommodate the best to chic city living. And for much more dogs that would be happy flat dwellers, check out our roundup of all small-sized breeds.

Dogs for Apartments

Best Apartment Dogs 1

Most owners will understand how difficult it can be if Picking the perfect dog breed since there are countless cute breeds of puppies. But, picking the best dog breeds for flats can be made easy with the right information.

When selecting a good apartment dog, there’s More to consider than simply browsing the smallest dog breeds. Dog shedding, energy and barking requirements are crucial factors to look over before you commit.

To make matters simple, we have prepared an Extensive manual for flat dwellers and pet lovers alike. So sit, stay, and have a look at our listing of the 44 best dog breeds for apartment living.

  1. Affenpinscher

 

The Affenpinscher is a feisty smart breed complete Of energy and character. They’re an ideal dog for apartment living, although there are a couple of items to Remember:

  • Tough to housetrain. Having access to your backyard or dog park will be necessary to maintain this excitable breed healthy.
  • Socialisation with other dogs and people in a necessity! Inviting friends over, going for walks and seeing dog-friendly cafes is suggested.
  • Training needs to be early and consistent. Puppy schools are a go-to for some.
  • Not your favoured breed if you have children and toddlers.

A quick learner, the Affenpinscher corrects Easily to alter and gets along well with other cats and dogs. However, they dislike rodent pets like rabbits and ferrets.

  1. Shedding: Quite Low
  2. Barking: Mod to Reduce
  3. Power: High
  1. American Eskimo Dog

Lucky for apartment goers, this breed isn’t Suited for life in the garden. The American Eskimo Dog is an intelligent dog breed which thrives in family activities — great for kids! To Make Sure your Eskie lives a healthy and happy lifestyle, follow these suggestions:

  • Do not leave them alone for long periods.
  • The Eskie excels in mind activities. Be sure to train them by an old age in agility, tricks and obedience or endure him outsmarting you!
  • Eskies prefer to announce if strangers come and go. Distraction techniques and coaching can assist with this.

An all-round Fantastic apartment dog, do not trust Them with small pets — instinct may take !

  1. Shedding: Really High
  2. Barking: Mod to High
  3. Power: Top
  1. American Hairless Terrier

The Hairless is a through and through House pet, coming in both covered and hairless types. Protective of their pack leaders, this little dog breed makes for a terrific watchdog.

The two kinds of strain barely shed, therefore a once-a-week mild brush is plenty! The AHT needs exposure to people and dogs between 7 weeks and 4 weeks to develop into a great apartment dog.

Puppy college is a great choice. Daily walks with some excess play inside is sufficient exercise because of this small strain.

  1. Shedding: Quite Low
  2. Barking: Low
  3. Power: Moderate
  1. Australian Terrier

If your flat is active and optimistic, the Australian Terrier is the best clown-like dog for you. Nicknamed the’bossy’, this adorable breed of dog is happiest when a part of life. The bossy has such attachment and respect for its human, it will suit their moods.

To maintain your Aussie Terrier away from chewing over gum and ripping your apartment to bits, exercise several times a day and not ever, let him get bored. Dog and kid friendly, but not guaranteed — guarantee supervision.

If you are the enlightened form, the bossy is an entertaining and enjoyable dog to your flat.

  1. Shedding: Very Low
  2. Barking: Really High
  3. Power: Really Higher
  1. Barbet

Produced a true swimmer, even the barbet is a joyful, Responsive and agreeable cute dog breed. Flat goers can expect a mixture of lounging around and enjoyable puzzling indoor games.

Furthermore, a couple walks a day will keep the barbet joyful. The Barbet does not lose much, but intermittent grooming will keep this little dog breed happy.

For more details about grooming, view here. Calm natures and easy alive, the Barbet can be up with the very best dog breeds for flats.

  1. Slimming: Low
  2. Barking: Moderate
  3. Power: Moderate
  1. Basenji

The Basenji, a very Distinctive breed for Devoted owners. I just recommend you get a Basenji if you meet the following:

  • Willing to learn and invest a great deal of time in taming this particular breed.
  • Do not own pets.
  • Appreciate the flaws of the breed.

The Basenji is one of those manipulative types And is renowned as an escape artist. If not exercised enough, they can get tremendously harmful.

Should you wish to invite this breed into your apartment, make sure you keep possessions off the floor as anything discovered is anything chewed!

  1. Shedding: Really Low
  2. Barking: Mod to High
  3. Power: Top
  1. Basset Fauve de Bretagne

Whatever Your household type — small or Large, the Basset is really a good apartment dog if not one of your troops suffer allergies. Friendly and busy, take them for an hour walk daily with a few additional matches in the mix.

Their size makes them a number of their best dog breeds for flats. If your flat is the warmer form, cut their own hair so.

  1. Slimming: Low
  2. Barking: Low
  3. Power: High
  1. Basset Hound

If you are following a laid back family buddy that Is kid-friendly, look no farther than the Basset Hound. This adorable dog breed is relatively simple to take care of and is somewhat lazy so catch a comfy mattress.

One aspect to think about is their capacity to drool. This good apartment dog has excellent endurance, so long walks once a day is sufficient exercise. They’re a major dog on small legs and can be very heavy to carry on — food for thought when you have stairs.

  1. Shedding: High
  2. Barking: Top
  3. Power: Low
  1. Bedlington Terrier

The second best thing out of a pet bunny is the Bedlington Terrier. Obvious from its appearance, the lamblike pet breed is the centre of attention in your household.

Also, relative if you are a one-man-band. This puppy is a small to medium apartment puppy and can create some household upkeep. Keys to making a smooth upbringing on your apartment include:

  • Early socialisation using pets.
  • Moderate exercise and mental stimulation. Jogging, walks, bring and hikes — this dog breed will suit your pace.
  • Regular grooming
  1. Slimming: Low
  2. Barking: Moderate
  3. Power: High
  1. Bichon Frise

Often confused as a Poodle, the Bichon Frise Is a terrific family dog recommended for people with allergies. As a little dog breed, they make very good apartment dogs and get together with extra animals and people.

The BF gets sensitive when left alone, so only think about this breed in case you have time to get daily walks, indoor games and household activities.

  1. Slimming: Low
  2. Barking: Low
  3. Energy: Top
  1. Biewer Terrier

If lively, lively and enjoyable is you, seem To the Biewer Terrier. Pronounced’beaver’, this adorable breed of puppies are suited to those without backyards — great for apartments!

They’re also highly adaptable to many living situations benefiting those who flat hop. This strain is quite yappy occasionally, especially with strangers . Socialisation at puppy-hood will provide help.

  1. Shedding: Low
  2. Barking: Moderate
  3. Energy: High
  1. Bolognese

The Bolognese is one for the consistent and Patient type. A genuine companion dog and family lover, but also manipulative. Your apartment might be off to a messy start as house training is tough, but stick with your guns and you’re going to have a best buddy .

  1. Slimming: Low
  2. Barking: Top
  3. Power: Moderate
  1. Border Terrier

If you’re a busy household, you’ll adore the Border Terrier. Made with a powerful drive to dig up and hunt, this little breed of dogs have been determined, lively, friendly and loving.

Be sure to invest as much time together because they revert into harmful and noisy behaviors when left alone.

  1. Shedding: Moderate
  2. Barking: Very Low
  3. Energy: High
  1. Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier is a spunky breed of puppy That’s gentle and affectionate. Little in size, they also make very good apartment dogs for kids and the elderly. They have a propensity to overheat, thus make sure they are kept indoors in temperate climates.

  1. Slimming: Low
  2. Barking: Moderate
  3. Energy: High
  1. Brussels Griffon

A vibrant and affectionate breed, the Brussels Griffon is a fantastic active apartment dog with a fantastic sense of humour.

Sensitive and high-strung, you will find that the Griffons tend to bond closely with one member. They generally get along with other pets but can become fear biters if educated roughly.

  1. Slimming: Moderate
  2. Barking: High
  3. Power: Really Higher
  1. Bulldog

The Bulldog is one of the more popular dog Breeds for apartments. This strain suits the easy-going household with young children. Short walks along with a rest in their master’s lap is this breeds speed.

However, monitor their food intake since they can be idle and become overweight.

  1. Slimming: Moderate
  2. Barking: Top
  3. Power: Low
  1. Cairn Terrier

A sensible & friendly breed that the Cairn Terrier should be with his family, ranking as one of the best dog breeds such as apartments.

Curious and quick to understand, this adorable breed of puppies need to understand who’s the chief, or may take lead! This furry friend is for anyone who wants an attentive and independent dog with a take-charge persona in your life.

  1. Shedding: Moderate
  2. Barking: Top
  3. Power: Top
  1. Cardigan Welsh Corgi

The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is more or less a Watchdog using a pleasant expression. Best for people that have potential unwanted strangers throughout your space. Consider these:

  • Need to prepare structured daily exercise.
  • Socialisation to as many things in a young age.
  • Food intake tracking.
  • Quiet command to stop angry neighbours.
  1. Slimming: High
  2. Barking: Top
  3. Energy: Moderate
  1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

A athletic breed, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel can be some of the best apartment dogs. They are very connected to their people, so that you may find them following you anywhere!

This adorable breed of dog is excited to fulfill everybody — excellent for popular apartments. This one is for the hikers, runners, beachgoers and dog sport enthusiasts.

  1. Slimming: Moderate
  2. Barking: Moderate
  3. Power: Moderate
  1. Cesky Terrier

The Cesky Terrier Is an Excellent apartment dog to Add to your loved ones. Expect weekly cutting and cleaning each six to eight months. A successful therapy dog, the Cesky just requires moderate amounts of exercise.

  1. Slimming: Low
  2. Barking: Moderate
  3. Power: Low
  1. Chihuahua

Larger-than-life, the Chihuahua loves nothing More than being with individuals. One of the smallest dog breeds, the Chihuahua is one of the top ten watchdogs recommended by specialists.

Put aside 20-30 minutes of exercise each day with this curious explorer. A good apartment dog and amazing journey company, the Chihuahua can’t be left unattended.

  1. Shedding: Low
  2. Barking: Moderate
  3. Power: Moderate
  1. Chinese Crested

If you’re after a quiet flat dog, the Chinese Crested is not for you. Destructive and noisy behaviours are a result of separation anxiety — be sure to spend plenty of time with this breed.

Highly intelligent, the Crested can practically read your mind and is likely to put on your bed. Unless educated from a young age, this terrific family dog is likely to bite strangers.

  1. Slimming: Low
  2. Barking: Moderate
  3. Power: Low
  1. Cocker Spaniel

Trustworthy, tender and loving, the Cocker Spaniel likes to please his people. Their size makes them good apartment dogs with children, pets and the elderly. A superb therapy dog, silent commands are recommended to restrain their barking customs.

  1. Slimming: Moderate
  2. Barking: Moderate
  3. Energy: High
  1. French Bulldog

An outstanding apartment dog, the Frenchie Loves to perform as much as relaxing on the sofa. His focus is on being a wonderful family friend, flourishing on contact.

Owners of this French Bulldog have to be more consistent, firm and patient with a creative flair in training, otherwise, he will get tired.

  1. Shedding: Moderate
  2. Barking: Moderate
  3. Energy: Moderate
  1. Coton De Tulear

Bred to be a human companion, this really small dog Breed is best suited to retiree’s, empty nesters or the worker from home. Always ready for a fantastic time, the Coton De Tulear is a versatile traveller and will adapt to your needs.

He is excellent for walks, and inside games will easily satisfy his exercise needs.

  1. Slimming: Low
  2. Barking: Low
  3. Energy: Moderate
  1. Dachshund

An excellent family company, the Dachshund Has been near the top of the very popular dogs because the ’50s.

Their small size and ease of care make them a few of their best puppies for apartment living. Active indoors and out, this adorable dog breed likes to be close with his people.

  1. Slimming: Moderate
  2. Barking: Really Significant
  3. Energy: Moderate
  1. Havanese

The Havanese is one to stick near his Proprietor side, hence the nickname ‘velcro dog’. Super affectionate towards dogs, strangers, cats and kids, the velcro puppy is a great addition to the household.

Even a 100% home puppy, they adapt well in apartments. Versatile and wonderful, they really do best in case someone’s house during the daytime to maintain company.

  1. Slimming: Low
  2. Barking: Low
  3. Energy: Moderate
  1. Greyhound

One would believe that the Greyhounds favourite Endeavor Is running when actually, all they want to do is sleeping. With many royal fans, this great flat dog is friendly towards dogs and people.

They are clearly excellent jogging/running spouses, but will also be satisfied with walks. Ensure your greyhound gets socialisation to bring their sweet, mild nature.

  1. Shedding: High
  2. Barking: Low
  3. Energy: Really High
  1. Japanese Chin

Little breeds of puppy such as the Western Chin are Not suited to outdoor living and living yards, making them good apartment dogs. A cat-like character defines this breed want to climb things and get up in his dwelling space.

Considering all the qualities of a companion dog, the Japanese Chin benefits individuals who can’t get around easily and households with older kids. Intelligent and well-mannered, he enjoys a daily walk or play-session.

  1. Shedding: Moderate
  2. Barking: Moderate
  3. Energy: Low
  1. Lhasa Apso

If you’re following a loyal family companion, then the Lhasa Apso is a superb selection. Though not entirely a kid , the sturdy small dog breed loves sharing life with household. To ensure a successful addition to your family you have to think carefully about:

  • Early socialisation and training.
  • Concentrate on dental hygiene.
  • Frequent grooming or becoming friends with an expert.
  1. Slimming: Moderate
  2. Barking: Top
  3. Power: High
  1. Lowchen

Considered among the toy breeds, the Lowchen Is playful, tender, robust and lively — perfect for both adults and kids alike. This strain is simple, getting along with the majority of pets and fitting to any apartment with puppies.

Small breeds of puppies with large personalities like the Lowchen strive when using their own people. Allow 20 minutes per day to work out this breed with emphasis on quiet command training.

  1. Slimming: Moderate
  2. Barking: High
  3. Energy: High
  1. Maltese

Gentle and fearless, the Maltese is dedicated to His folks. Up to now they require a great deal of human care. Quick students when rewarded for their attempts, this cute breed of dog excels as a companion and therapy dog. I do not recommend this dog :

  • Owners who work long hours.
  • Families with toddlers or tiny children.
  1. Shedding: Low
  2. Barking: Low
  3. Power: Moderate
  1. Manchester Terrier

A fan of extended walks, the Manchester Terrier Is a terrific watchdog. Loyal, hearty and eager to find out, attempt to prevent separation anxiety. This will result in noisy behaviours in a strain that’s already known to be outspoken.

Training and exercise are great prevention tools! As the Manchester Terrier is sensitive, so they are unsuitable for kids households.

  1. Shedding: Low
  2. Barking: Top
  3. Power: High
  1. Mini Pinscher

A skilled escape artist also dynamite character bring a new meaning to liberty — this breed is his own dog. Fearless and energetic, the Miniature Pinscher may be quite the couple.

Qualities of a solid pack leader, proper handling and training will stop this small breed of dog from becoming a tyrant in your flat. Not a fantastic choice for first-time owners.

  1. Slimming: Low
  2. Barking: Very Low
  3. Power: Top
  1. Pekingese

If you are willing to make space for a truly Individual personality, the Pekingese may be for you personally. Well aware of his ancestral royalty he’ll greet you with dignity and pride, demanding that honor in turn.

Very loving and affectionate with their loved ones, this small dog breed likes to think they’re responsible for everything. A self-important attitude will make training difficult — do not be unpleasant.

For the perfect owners, they create some of the greatest dogs for apartment living.

  1. Shedding: High
  2. Barking: Top
  3. Energy: Low
  1. Pomeranian

Cute breeds of dogs such as the Pomeranian possess More to offer than their appearance. Compact and busy, this strain is a faithful family friend ideal suited to the elder or busy proprietor. They like long walks, meeting folks and sightseeing.

  1. Shedding: High
  2. Barking: Very Substantial
  3. Power: Moderate
  1. Poodle

Keen intelligence and a proud nature give the Poodle great people skills. Elegant and clever, lively owners best match the requirements of the little dog breed. Be mindful to not spoil or under train, this may enable them to think they’re alpha.

  1. Slimming: Low
  2. Barking: Low
  3. Power: High
  1. Pug

A clown in mind, Pugs are amongst the best Dog breeds for flats due to size, sense of humor, exercise needs and watchdog potential. Thriving on human companionship, the Pug likes to be centre of attention and can be heartsick if otherwise.

If you’re into pug-parades, pug dress ups and pug get-togethers, you have found the very best flat dog.

  1. Slimming: Very Low
  2. Barking: Low
  3. Energy: Moderate
  1. Schipperke

In case your apartment complex has strict Sound Rules, perhaps prudent to consider a different breed. Nicknamed the LBD, (little black devil) that the Schipperke is a patrol dog ruining mice and other vermin in his way.

Easily result in trouble by his fascination, this breed of dogs do well when given a task to perform. If well trained and attended , he’ll be eternally well-behaved. Set aside at least 30 minutes a day to burn off extra energy.

  1. Shedding: Moderate
  2. Barking: High
  3. Energy: Very Higher
  1. Shiba Inu

If socialised nicely rather than harshly treated, That the Shiba Inu is a fantastic family dog having a lively personality. Keeping them in a enclosed and fenced place is vital — good apartment dogs.

Blond and fiery, this strain is generally suspicious on strangers and loves a chase — make sure you get a durable dog leash! Training should start early to create proper canine manners.

First-time owners may become frustrated with this particular breed. Work with a coach who understands this breed for best results.

  1. Shedding: High
  2. Barking: Top
  3. Energy: High
  1. Shih Tzu

Size, personality, adaptability and Friendliness create the Shih Tzu the best dog breeds for flats. Whether you’re in town or suburbs, this small dog breed will combine you for sofa cuddles every moment.

In case you have children and pets, do not stress! This strain is outgoing and enjoys a greet and meet with friends and strangers.

  1. Slimming: Moderate
  2. Barking: Low
  3. Energy: Low
  1. Silky Terrier

Small breeds of dogs like the Silky Terrier May add a lot of love and spice for the ideal owner. They are happiest when they could spend all day into your company.

This breed is a terrier however, and terrier characteristics needs to be considered

  • Digging.
  • Barking.
  • Chasing.

To avoid undesirable habits, ensure to keep up Daily mental and bodily exercise.

  1. Slimming: Low
  2. Barking: Top
  3. Power: Top
  1. Toy Fox Terrier

The Toy Fox Terrier is a loyal and loving dog Breed ready to entertain their loved ones. A devoted companion, they are extremely protective of their humans.

Should you need someone to cuddle and binge-watch Netflix, this breed is for you. A fantastic flat dog would be a house trained dog, and also the Toy Fox Terrier house trains really well.

  1. Shedding: High
  2. Barking: High
  3. Energy: Really Substantial
  1. Yorkshire Terrier

If you are a puppy orientated household, the Yorkshire terrier is going to do well in your care. Lots of focus is required for this feisty yet smoking strain. They perform well in flats, just make sure you get out for some exercise each day.

They may be aggressive with strangers and dogs so make sure that you socialise and train them from young.

  1. Slimming: Low
  2. Barking: Moderate
  3. Energy: Really Higher

With thousands of breeds walking amongst us, I Hope this has shed some light on the ideal dog breeds for apartment living.

General FAQ

Can a dog live in an apartment?

Different sizes and shapes of dogs are Perfectly comfortable with living. But you as the renter should be mindful of the dog’s needs and your neighbors’ needs as well.

Which dog is Ideal for flat Alive?

Some of these best dog breeds for Apartment dwelling are Affenpinscher, American Eskimo Dog, Australian Terrier, Barbet, Pug, Bichon Frise, and many others.

Are dogs good for flat?

Boxers are fairly busy puppies and they can be sometimes high-maintenance. Additionally, there are a wide variety of other strains Which are much better suited for apartment living.

All this said, you can still have And raise a fighter within an apartment, believing that you give it a lot of exercise.

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