15 Best Apartment Dogs for People With Small Spaces and Big Hearts
These pint-sized pups would be right at home in any tiny space.
Cramped quarters don't mean you can't own a pup. Sure, in order to adopt a large dog like a husky or a shepherd, you'd probably want a space that's big enough for Fido to roam. But lucky for dog lovers everywhere, there are plenty of small dog breeds that would be more than happy in an apartment.
So what sets these apartment-friendly dogs apart from other pups? For one, most of them are small in size. In addition, many of them are laid back, low-shed, and known for being polite and quiet (something your neighbors will thank you for when they see you in the elevator or lobby, or hear you through the walls). The most important thing when choosing a dog is to select the breed that's right for you and your lifestyle. According to the American Kennel Club, these cute breeds adapt the best to chic city living. And for more dogs that would be happy apartment dwellers, check out our roundup of small-sized breeds.
Bichon Frise
Hypoallergenic and and utterly charming, Bichons learn quickly and love just about everyone. Clocking in at around 15 pounds, this is a playful companion that doesn't take up too much room on the couch either.
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French Bulldog
This breed has recently skyrocketed in popularity with metropolitan millennials, but Frenchies were uber popular in Paris all the way back in the 18th century. A brisk walk each day will sufficiently keep them in shape, and they rarely bark (a big boon for the neighbors).
Greyhound
You wouldn't think the fastest dog around would adapt to three-roomed abodes, but these sprinters truly like to lounge most of the day. Take 'em to the dog park for a good exercise sesh, and you'll have yourself a sleepy sweetheart while This Is Us is on.
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Pug
A little mischievous but totally loving, pugs make it easy on apartment dwellers with their homebody nature. Take care if you live anywhere with extreme temperatures, and keep the treats in check — pugs' love of food and couch potato sensibilities make them prone to obesity.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Charlotte was onto something in Sex and the City by adopting a Cav. These toy dogs enjoy walks around the block — and then a place in your lap, of course. At 13 to 18 pounds, even a tiny studio can make room for one of these silky beauties.
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Bulldog
Despite their muscled frames, bulldogs have developed quite a rep as lazy loungers. Brisk strolls should do the trick when it comes to exercise, and you'll appreciate their friendly and loyal demeanor. Cities in hot climates don't make the best home for their short faces.
Havenese
Oh hey there, 10-pound fluffball. Just like their ancestors living in the Cuban capital, Havanese dogs excel in downtowns, perfectly content to clown around inside your pad. Here's your new best friend if you want an outgoing pup with a built-in entertainment system. Let the silky fur grow long or clip it short for an easier grooming schedule.
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Shih Tzu
Originally bred to live inside Chinese palaces, Shih Tzus will settle for your more modest digs quite happily. Parents, take note: These affectionate little guys are especially great with kids and other dogs.
Boston Terrier
If you're looking for something with a much shorter coat, you're in luck. Nicknamed "the American gentleman," the Boston terrier is deserving of its citified name. This small breed is lively and amusing, yet still compact and eager to please.
Biewer Terrier
If you originally had a Yorkie in mind, consider its younger cousin instead. The Biewer (pronounced "beaver") Terrier only dates back to the '80s, but has already established a reputation for its milder temperament and quieter demeanor. At 4 to 8 pounds, you can easily scoop the pint-sized cutie up with a single hand.
Maltese
Not to be confused with the Havanese, this all-white dog can weigh half the size (under 7 pounds, compared to up to 13) and hails from the Mediterranean. They're born-and-bred companions that exude a playful charm. As for the long coat, Maltese actually shed infrequently.
German Spitz
Devotion is the name of the game with this spitz breed. The fox-like expression may win you over, but take care with these attentive fellows. They can develop a penchant for barking at strangers if you're not careful. Luckily they're especially eager to please and willing to learn.
Bedlington Terrier
With distinctively fleecy fur, Bedlington Terriers stand out from the crowd, but all they really want is to become a part of the family. Sprightly when out and about, your new mate will require longer walks and play sessions, but you'll be rewarded with a dog that's loyal to the core — and low-shedding.
Italian Greyhound
A miniature version of a racing greyhound, these guys weigh about 10 pounds instead of 60. They're total snugglers and love cozying up on the bed, but still have a coursing spirit running through them. (Read: Don't allow them off-leash in unfenced areas.)
Chinese Crested
Last but certainly not least, the Chinese Crested is certainly one way to stand out on your block. While the "powderpuff" version is covered in a silky coat, the hairless variety only has tufts at the head, feet, and tail — perfect if you need a hypoallergenic breed. Just take care to protect their exposed skin from the sun's UV rays.
Caroline is a writer and editor with almost a decade of experience. From 2015 to 2019, she held various editorial positions at Good Housekeeping, including as health editor, covering nutrition, fitness, wellness, and other lifestyle news. She's a graduate of the Medill School of Journalism and dreams of the day Northwestern will go back to the Rose Bowl.
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