Chihuahua or Corgi? Beagle or Boxer? You’re looking for a new furry family member, but one that won’t cause fights with your landlord or troubles for your security deposit. Find out which dog breeds are best for apartment living and why, from the furriendly folks at ApartmentSearch!
Bichon Frise: These small little fluff balls are the perfect companions for apartment dwellers for several reasons. First of all, their size is ideal! They won’t take up too much space in a studio or one-bedroom. Second, their fur is hypoallergenic, and they barely shed. Lastly, they’re playful, curious, and friendly to other dogs and humans.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: These miniature spaniels do well in apartments thanks to their gentle demeanor, small size, and low activity level. You’ll need to exercise or walk your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel a few times a day, but they’ll be content to snuggle and lay low after that.
French Bulldog: Not only are French Bulldogs some of the cutest dogs around, but they make amazing roommates in a small apartment. They’re quiet pups (which your neighbors will appreciate), and they don’t need much exercise (which means more relaxation for you). They’re also extremely adaptable, and will go with the flow as long as they’ve got you!
Shih Tzu: Shih Tzus are suitable for apartments because it’s in their blood! Originally bred to live within palaces, Shih Tzus don’t demand as much outdoor time as many other breeds. And no, you don’t need to live in a palace! These dogs are affectionate, cuddly, and undeniably cute.
Pug: If your ideal dog is a certified couch potato, get a pug. These small but mighty dogs are considered “ideal house dogs” by their owners thanks to their easy going nature. Keep in mind that pugs tend to gain weight easily… so daily walks around the block are essential!
Italian Greyhound: The miniature version of the statuesque Greyhound, Italian Greyhounds are loving, intelligent, and quiet furry friends. Speaking of fur: Italian Greyhounds don’t shed, which makes sharing an apartment with them much more comfortable. They’re adaptable dogs and do well spending most of their time indoors (with a bit of daily exercise). Plus, they aren’t prone to barking, scratching, or chewing on you or your furniture.
Havanese: Many big city residents looking for a suitable companion opt for a Havanese. This small, fluffy breed is incredibly social, loyal, and downright funny – they’ll provide hours (no, years!) of entertainment for their owners. They’re happy to be anywhere with their owners, whether that’s wide-open farmland or a studio apartment in Manhattan.
Bulldog: There is no other dog quite like the bulldog. These hefty, loyal dogs are irresistibly adorable with their wrinkled skin and “smushed” noses. Though bulldogs love to lounge and will insist on being your 50-pound lapdog, these pups need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. Keep in mind that bulldogs live best in cooler climates (and in air-conditioning all summer!) because they’re susceptible to breathing issues.
Corgi: Queen Elizabeth’s corgis may have been well-suited for royal life, but it turns out that this adorable breed is a fantastic fit for apartment living, too. Corgis are loyal, friendly, and don’t need as much high-energy activity as larger breeds. They’re super fluffy and tend to shed, but a lint roller (or 20!) will keep you from tracking too much dog hair to work after a morning snuggle sesh.
Once you’ve found the perfect dog breed to match your lifestyle, it’s time to find the perfect apartment for both of you! Use ApartmentSearch to find your dream apartment in the ideal area, and refine your results by amenity, price, number of bedrooms/bathrooms, and more! Then brush up on tips for moving with pets and start packing!
