Dog breeds for apartments: discover the 10 best

If you are thinking about having a canine companion in your apartment, knowing a little about the characteristics and peculiarities of the breeds is essential for their well-being, for your peace of mind and that of your neighbors. Discover the 10 best  dog breeds for apartments below .

What to consider when choosing a dog breed for an apartment?

Raising a dog in an apartment  requires some care. If you are about to start a new stage of life with a dog in your apartment, it is worth checking out some characteristics and the breeds that adapt best to this lifestyle.

Size

When choosing a dog breed for apartment living, opt for small to medium-sized dogs, as these dogs tend to adapt better to smaller spaces. If you still choose a large dog breed, it is important to ensure that the dog receives adequate exercise.

Energy level

Calmer, low-energy dog ​​breeds are generally better suited to living in smaller spaces where they don’t have a lot of room to run and explore. These dogs tend to adapt better to a quieter routine, enjoying moments of relaxation and rest alongside their owners. 

Need for exercise

Consider the time and space available for daily physical activity. Some breeds require intense exercise, while others are content with regular walks and indoor play.

Temperament

Look for breeds that are known for being friendly, sociable and tolerant, as it is important that the dog gets along well with other animals and people, especially considering the communal environment of an apartment building.

Excessive barking

Keep in mind the environment’s tolerance level for barking. Some breeds tend to be louder than others, which can lead to problems with neighbors in an apartment.

Even considering these characteristics, it is important to keep in mind that each dog is unique and may vary within the characteristics of its breed. However, by considering these factors when choosing a dog breed for apartment living, you will increase the chances of having a harmonious and happy coexistence with your canine companion. 

Best Dog Breeds for Apartments

1. Shih Tzu

In addition to being extremely cute, Shih-Tzu is one of the most independent and calm dog breeds for apartments, as dogs of this breed are able to spend time away from the family without suffering from separation anxiety or other disorders, which is ideal for people who work outside the home.

This breed is known for being affectionate, gentle and attached to its owners, and they are not very active or agitated. However, although they are intelligent, they can be a little distracted during training, requiring patience on the part of the owner.

2. Yorkshire

In the  ranking  of the most popular dog breeds in the world, the Yorkshire Terrier occupies a prominent place. These adorable little dogs are known for their energetic, playful nature and for not shedding much hair, which makes them a great option for those who live in apartments.

However, it is important to note that Yorkshire Terriers require a certain amount of socialization work on the part of their owners. Otherwise, they may develop unwanted behaviors, such as excessive barking and destroying objects and furniture in the house. Therefore, it is essential to invest time and effort in socialization and training from an early age.

3. German Spitz (Pomeranian)

The German Spitz, also known as the Pomeranian, is another dog breed that is ideal for apartments. Originating from Germany and Poland, the German Spitz has always been bred as a companion dog, which contributes to its docile and affectionate nature. However, it is important to note that Pomeranians generally do not cope well with being alone and can develop separation anxiety. 

So, if you need to be away for long periods of time, look for solutions such as hiring a pet sitter or using interactive toys to keep your German Spitz entertained and comfortable. Overall, this is a loving and companionable dog, perfect for apartment life.

4. English Bulldog

If you’re looking for a medium-sized dog for apartment living, the English Bulldog could be an excellent choice. While many prefer small dogs, such as the Pomeranian, and others opt for large dogs, the English Bulldog stands out as a middle-ground alternative.

In everyday life, this breed tends to bark little, has a calm temperament and is relatively easy to handle. However, it has an inherent stubbornness. The tip is to start training and socializing it early. This way, it is possible to overcome its stubborn behavior and make the most of living with your English Bulldog.

5. Pug

The Pug is one of the best dog breeds for apartments. Those who know them understand why. In addition to having an extremely cute and friendly appearance, this breed is also known for its affectionate, sociable and loyal personality. They are calm, quiet, not very active dogs and do not require intense physical exercise due to their brachycephalic conformation.

Even so, it is essential to provide them with adequate stimulation to avoid health problems. Fortunately, they are easy to socialize and are generally quite calm with other breeds.

6. Maltese

The Maltese is a small dog breed for apartments that is widely present in many homes, and with good reason. This little dog is docile, affectionate and generally easy to live with. One of the most striking characteristics of the Maltese is its immense loyalty and sociability, adapting easily to living with other pets and even children. 

If you’re looking for a calm dog for an apartment, the Maltese is by far the best option you can get. Their charming personality and need for attention make them a perfect companion for living in a small space.

7. Chihuahua

When looking for apartment dog breeds, a great option to consider is the Chihuahua. This breed is one of the smallest in the world and can easily adapt to any environment. However, it is important to keep in mind that despite their diminutive size, Chihuahuas have a strong and distinctive personality. They are fearless, protective, and will not hesitate to defend their family, even when there is no imminent danger.

To ensure harmonious coexistence in the condominium, invest in training and socializing your Chihuahua from the time it is a puppy. In addition, look for ways to provide  activities that burn off your pet’s energy indoors . 

8. Pinscher

Among the breeds of small dogs for apartments, we cannot fail to mention the Pinscher. These little dogs, known for their characteristic trembling, are also great friends with humans. Despite their reputation for being a little stressed, in reality, Pinschers are extremely protective of their owners and are always alert to any strange situation. To deal with their shrill barking, training and socialization are essential.

Aside from these little details, Pinschers are extremely loyal, affectionate, and devoted companions. They are intelligent and active, which means they need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Regular play and exercise are essential to meeting their activity needs.

9. Beagle

These little dogs are known for being loyal companions and have several other qualities, such as sweetness, friendliness and joy. However, Beagles can also be stubborn and a bit mischievous, so it is important to train them to ensure the integrity of the legs of your furniture. 

When it comes to relationships, Beagles are extremely sociable and get along well with children, strangers, and other animals, so you can take your dog to the  building’s pet shop  without fear. It’s important to note that Beagles are naturally scent hounds, so it’s essential to provide mental stimulation and activities that involve their sense of smell to keep them mentally satisfied.

10. Cocker Spaniel

The Cocker Spaniel is an excellent medium-sized dog for apartment living. This breed is playful, affectionate, friendly, calm, and extremely loyal to its owners. Its docile and loving nature makes it a perfect companion for life in smaller spaces.

Even though they have a calm temperament, it is important to remember that this breed has a moderate energy level and needs regular exercise. Daily walks, interactive activities and games are essential to keep your Cocker Spaniel happy and healthy. 

In short, although the mentioned apartment dog breeds do not require intense daily exercise, it is essential to provide regular walks and activities to maintain the physical and mental health of pets in balance. Both not only help to avoid health problems, but also contribute to the emotional and behavioral well-being of dogs, preventing stress, anxiety and depression. 

Furthermore, exercises have the power to avoid problems and complaints from neighbors due to excessive noise and aggressive behavior, maintaining harmony in the condominium.