Top 10 Best Apartment Dogs [2025 Guide]

The best dogs for apartment living are breeds that adapt well to smaller spaces, have moderate energy needs, and don’t bark excessively. Some of the top choices include French Bulldogs, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Bichon Frisés, Pugs, and Boston Terriers. Many small-to-medium breeds, and toy breeds like Italian Greyhounds, thrive in apartments if given regular exercise and attention.

Of course, not all dogs make good apartment dogs due to their size and temperament, and some breeds are more likely to be subject to restrictions than others.

Below, we highlight the Top 10 Best Apartment Dogs with detailed breed profiles, followed by 35 additional breeds that also make great companions in smaller spaces, with data sourced from the American Kennel Club.

But before we get into a breed-by-breed breakdown, here are our top picks for the best low-shedding dog breeds and the quietest breeds for apartments:

Best Low-Shedding Dog Breeds for Apartments

Quietest Dog Breeds for Apartments

What Makes a Dog Apartment-Friendly?

Before diving into breeds, here are the key traits renters should prioritize when choosing a dog for apartment life:

• Temperament - Calm, adaptable, and not prone to excessive barking.
• Exercise Needs - Moderate activity requirements that can be met with daily walks or indoor play.
• Noise Levels -Quiet breeds are best in shared-wall living.
• Size & Shedding - Small-to-medium breeds are easier to manage in tight spaces, but some large breeds (like Greyhounds) are great, too.
• Lease Restrictions - Always check your building’s pet policy (some have breed or weight limits).

Best Dog Breeds for Apartments - Breed Profiles

1. Affenpinschers

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Affectionate but feisty; thrives with consistent training.
• Exercise needs: About 30 minutes of walking or indoor play daily.
• Noise level: Will bark at noises but can be trained to quiet down.
• Renter tip: Works best for renters who spend time at home and can provide attention.

The feisty affenpinscher is intelligent, fun, and among the best indoor dogs. However, they are difficult to house train, so make sure you can commit to plenty of outdoor time with them. Affenpinschers also enjoy socializing with other pups and do well with early dog training.

2. American Eskimo Dogs

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: Medium to high
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Intelligent, social, alert, playful.
• Exercise needs: Daily walks + puzzle toys or games.
• Noise level: Tends to bark at hallway or outdoor noises.
• Renter tip: Ideal for renters who work from home or families who can provide regular activity.

The American Eskimo dog is intelligent and enjoys being around other humans — even kids! However, you shouldn't leave them alone for long periods without a check-in, and you will need to train them not to announce everyone walking past the apartment door. They are intelligent and need plenty of daily challenges, so be prepared to train them.

3. American Hairless Terriers

• Shedding: Very low (hypoallergenic)
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Loyal, alert, protective but affectionate.
• Exercise needs: One walk a day + indoor play.
• Noise level: Will bark if startled but not overly vocal.
• Renter tip: Excellent choice for allergy-sensitive renters.

The American hairless terriers love being at home as apartment pets and rarely shed. They enjoy people but are fiercely protective of their alpha, so they need exposure to other dogs and people early on. With such a small stature and medium energy level, this terrier would be content with playtime and a daily walk.

4. Australian Terriers

• Shedding: Very low
• Barking: Very high
• Energy: High
• Temperament: Confident, spirited, loyal.
• Exercise needs: Multiple walks and structured play daily.
• Noise level: Tends to bark often without consistent training.
• Renter tip: Best for active renters who can commit time to exercise and training.

Australian terriers are bossy and love to be the center of attention. They have high energy, and without plenty of exercise and engagement, they will happily rip apart furniture and rugs. Australian terriers are so loyal that you might even notice yours mimicking your mood.

5. Barbets

• Shedding: Very low
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Gentle, adaptable, affectionate.
• Exercise needs: Daily walks + occasional swimming if possible.
• Noise level: Moderate but manageable with training.
• Renter tip: Great for families who want a calm, low-shedding dog.

Barbets are devoted swimmers that are generally happy and agreeable. They're content to cuddle or challenge themselves with an indoor game. Barbets need regular grooming and a few daily walks but are generally low-key and easy to enjoy.

6. Basenjis

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: Very low (known as “barkless dogs”)
• Energy: High
• Temperament: Independent, clever, curious.
• Exercise needs: Vigorous walks or runs daily.
• Noise level: Quiet but may “yodel” instead of barking.
• Renter tip: Great for renters who want a quiet dog but can provide lots of exercise.

Basenjis are fabulous, small indoor dogs but require a devoted owner willing to invest in training and attention. Basenjis don't do particularly well with other pets, so make sure they're your only fur baby. These intelligent and engaging dogs are a blast but will also get restless and destructive when they need more exercise.

7. Bitsas (mixed breeds)

• Shedding: Low to medium (varies)
• Barking: Low to medium (varies)
• Energy: Varies by mix
• Temperament: Adaptable, friendly, easygoing.
• Exercise needs: Tailored to breed mix and activity level.
• Noise level: Usually moderate.
• Renter tip: Adopting a mixed breed often means fewer health problems and more flexibility.

Bitsas are adorable mixed breeds without any dominant traits. They're mellow, relatively healthy, and usually crowd-pleasers, whether you live with a roommate or with kids. Just note that a bista’s temperament can change based on its specific mix.

8. Basset Fauve de Bretagnes

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: High
• Temperament: Cheerful, playful, social.
• Exercise needs: Long walks + mental stimulation.
• Noise level: Moderate, especially if understimulated.
• Renter tip: Ideal for renters who enjoy an active lifestyle.

The basset fauve de Bretagne makes the list of perfect apartment dogs who love to play and take long walks. These dogs are very social and require mental stimulation. If you don’t keep their minds busy, they’ll find a way to do it themselves, but it may not be in a way you’d prefer!

9. Basset Hounds

• Shedding: Low to medium (varies)
• Barking: Low to medium (varies)
• Energy: Varies by mix
• Temperament: Adaptable, friendly, easygoing.
• Exercise needs: Tailored to breed mix and activity level.
• Noise level: Usually moderate.
• Renter tip: Adopting a mixed breed often means fewer health problems and more flexibility.

Basset hounds are known for their laid-back personality and lazy attitude. They do drool and shed but are so cute that you may not mind. Their tiny legs may not be ideal for a townhouse with stairs, but they are otherwise content taking one walk a da

10. Bedlington Terriers

• Shedding: Very low
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: High
• Temperament: Friendly, athletic, affectionate.
• Exercise needs: Daily walks + occasional jogs.
• Noise level: Moderate.
• Renter tip: Excellent choice for renters who want a sporty but low-shedding breed.

Bedlington terriers look like an adorable cross between a lamb and a dog. They enjoy other pets and will keep up with you on a jog or a brisk walk. These terriers require weekly grooming, but their temperament and size are ideal for even small apartments.

11. Bichon Frisés

• Shedding: Very low (hypoallergenic)
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: High
• Temperament: Cheerful, playful, affectionate.
• Exercise needs: Daily walks + indoor play.
• Noise level: Will bark if left alone too long.
• Renter tip: Best for renters who want a social, people-friendly companion.

Bichon Frisés are among the best dogs for apartments due to their size, low shedding, and positive disposition. They get along with other pets, kids, and roommates. However, these pups require attention and don't take kindly to being left alone for too long.

The playful Biewer terrier (pronounced as “beaver”) is ideal for apartments with or without backyards. They’re known for being happy-go-lucky with a childlike curiosity. They are hard to silence when strangers are around, but some schooling and a little training will help.

13. Bolognese

• Shedding: Very low
• Barking: Very low
• Energy: Very low
• Temperament: Loyal, calm, easygoing.
• Exercise needs: Minimal — a couple of short walks a day.
• Noise level: One of the quietest breeds.
• Renter tip: Excellent for retirees or renters who prefer a low-maintenance dog.

The Bolognese is a very low-maintenance dog and a loyal companion to its people. Bolognese dogs are happy to lounge about and play only when you initiate playtime. They’re known for being highly adaptable.

14. Border Terriers

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Fun-loving, affectionate, energetic.
• Exercise needs: Daily walks + outdoor play.
• Noise level: Moderate if understimulated.
• Renter tip: Good for active renters who can provide regular activity.

Border terriers love to dig, hunt, and generally spend time outdoors. As a result, if they’re left alone indoors for too long, they might try to find a place to dig. On the upside, they're active, fun-loving, and don't do much barking if you pay attention to them.

15. Boston Terriers

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: Low
• Energy: High
• Temperament: Friendly, gentle, affectionate.
• Exercise needs: Daily walks + indoor play.
• Noise level: Typically quiet.
• Renter tip: Great for renters looking for a quiet, family-friendly dog.

The small and low-shedding Boston terriers are great indoor dogs. They're gentle with kids and enjoy cuddling and expressing affection. If you live in the South, mind your air conditioning. These terrors tend to overheat and prefer being indoors.

16. Brussels Griffons

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: High
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Sensitive, loyal, quirky.
• Exercise needs: Moderate walks + playtime.
• Noise level: Tends to bark, especially at strangers.
• Renter tip: Works best for single renters who can give them full attention.

Brussels griffons are among the best dogs for apartments but come with high energy and sensitivity levels. They're also self-important to a fault and like to be the center of attention with their quirky personality. Brussels griffons tend to bond with one person, so they may not be the best if you adopt this pup as a couple.

17. Bulldogs

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: Low
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Calm, affectionate, easygoing.
• Exercise needs: Short daily walks.
• Noise level: Quiet but prone to snoring.
• Renter tip: Great for renters who want a laid-back, low-energy companion.

Bulldogs make cute apartment dogs with their easygoing nature and ability to cooperate. Short walks are fine for this breed, which is all about afternoon naps. However, don’t overfeed and under-walk them, or they'll quickly become overweight.

18. Cairn Terriers

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: High
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Happy, confident, outgoing.
• Exercise needs: Daily walks + play.
• Noise level: Can bark often without training.
• Renter tip: Best for renters who can commit to training and playtime.

As one of the best dog breeds for apartment living, the cairn terrier enjoys time with their people and having a good time. They have a higher energy level but are agreeable and quick to pick up new games. These happy dogs like to be in charge, so make sure they feel like the alpha.

19. Cardigan Welsh Corgis

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: High
• Energy: High
• Temperament: Watchful, loyal, affectionate.
• Exercise needs: Long walks + structured play.
• Noise level: Prone to barking without training.
• Renter tip: Good for renters who can commit to exercise and structure.

While Cardigan Welsh corgis look friendly and pleasant, they are watchdogs in disguise. They need a structured routine, exercise, and socialization at a young age.

Ensure you train them to stay quiet, or their barking might disturb your neighbors.

20. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, loyal.
• Exercise needs: Daily walks + cuddle time.
• Noise level: Moderate but usually manageable.
• Renter tip: Excellent for renters who want a loving lapdog with moderate energy.

The fact that Cavalier King Charles spaniels were bred to be lap dogs makes them one of the best dog breeds for apartment living, but they are also athletic and ready to run. They're loyal and enjoy following the person everywhere, so prepare to have them underfoot. Beyond your apartment, they also enjoy going on long walks, jogging, and spending time on trails or beaches.

21. Cesky Terriers

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Calm, loyal, adaptable.
• Exercise needs: Daily walks + moderate play.
• Noise level: Controlled with training.
• Renter tip: Ideal for renters who want a gentle, easy-to-train companion.

Cesky terriers are ideal small indoor dogs that enjoy spending time with their people and can work as therapy dogs. You’ll find they’re easier to train than other terriers and do have some prey instincts, so they may take care of a mouse problem. They don't shed much but need brushing and clipping at least every month.

22. Chihuahuas

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: Very high
• Energy: High
• Temperament: Bold, loyal, protective.
• Exercise needs: Short walks + indoor play.
• Noise level: High — often barky watchdogs.
• Renter tip: Best for single renters or quiet households without thin walls.

Despite their pint-sized stature, Chihuahuas have large personalities. They make excellent watchdogs but need time to exercise and explore. Chihuahuas can't be left unattended for long but make great companions for errands and traveling.

23. Chinese Cresteds

• Shedding: Very low
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Affectionate, quirky, playful.
• Exercise needs: Daily walks + light activity.
• Noise level: Manageable with training.
• Renter tip: Great for allergy-sensitive renters looking for a unique, loving dog.

Chinese crested dogs get a lot of attention for their unique coat and intelligence. However, despite their loyalty and frustration in separating from you, they need early training or else they may end up biting strangers.

24. Cocker Spaniels

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: High
• Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, eager-to-please.
• Exercise needs: Long walks + daily play.
• Noise level: Moderate, needs training.
• Renter tip: Best for active renters who can commit to exercise and grooming.

Cocker spaniels are people pleasers, and their small size makes them among the best dogs for apartments. You'll enjoy their gentle and loving nature, but they will likely bark without working on their quiet commands.

25. French Bulldogs

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: Very low
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Affectionate, social, easygoing.
• Exercise needs: Short walks + indoor play.
• Noise level: Quiet but prone to snoring.
• Renter tip: Excellent for renters wanting a quiet, low-maintenance breed.

French bulldogs are great apartment dogs for a reason. They love to play, relax with their humans, and are happy to meet new people. However, they get bored and need exercise and fun to stay happy and content.

26. Coton de Tulears

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: Very low
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Playful, clownish, affectionate.
• Exercise needs: Daily walks + play.
• Noise level: Very quiet.
• Renter tip: Ideal for renters seeking a happy, adaptable companion.

Coton de Tulears are a small dog breed that always wants you around, but they're equally as adaptable and will follow along with your routine. They're known for being playful and clownish. They are good with other dogs, cats, and kids but are prone to grunting and growling as their preferred method of communication.

27. Dachshunds

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: Very high
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Brave, playful, clever.
• Exercise needs: Moderate daily walks.
• Noise level: Very barky without training.
• Renter tip: Best for renters with patience for training and soundproof walls.

Dachshunds make fabulous apartment companions due to their small size and affection for their owners. The dachshund is playful, lively, and clever while retaining a sense of courageousness. They're small but mighty and don’t need complex care but do need training to control their barking.

28. Havanese

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: High
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Affectionate, cheerful, social.
• Exercise needs: Moderate walks + playtime.
• Noise level: Barky without attention.
• Renter tip: Perfect for social renters who can spend time with their dog.

Havanese love being right by their owner's side and are affectionate to other pets and strangers alike. They enjoy being apartment dogs and are versatile to your lifestyle. These pups are also known for their love of games and quirky sense of humor that will charm your guests.

29. Italian Greyhounds

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Elegant, gentle, affectionate.
• Exercise needs: Short walks + occasional sprints.
• Noise level: Moderate, not excessive.
• Renter tip: Excellent for renters who want a low-maintenance, affectionate dog.

While Italian greyhounds are fast and energetic, they also love a good nap with their owners. These apartment-friendly dogs are mild-mannered and love other pets. They’re not exactly high maintenance, but they do need exercise, even if it’s just a regular walk.

30. Japanese Chins

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: Low
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Calm, intelligent, affectionate.
• Exercise needs: Short daily walks.
• Noise level: Quiet, rarely bark.
• Renter tip: Great choice for renters who want a calm, low-energy lapdog.

Japanese Chins are designed for apartment living and don't enjoy the outdoors or lounging in yards. But they do love climbing, walking, and playtime. You'll enjoy their mild-mannered personality, but they like to get up high and watch, amused, as you try to get them to come back down.

31. Lhasa Apsos

• Shedding: Very low
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Loyal, confident, sometimes stubborn.
• Exercise needs: Daily walk + indoor play.
• Noise level: Moderate, needs early training.
• Renter tip: Great for renters willing to handle grooming and occasional stubbornness.

Lhasa apsos are loyal and ready to hang out with you and your roommates. However, they need ongoing grooming and dental care. And even though they're pretty social, they need early training to ensure their mischievous side doesn't come out too much.

32. Löwchens

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Playful, gentle, social.
• Exercise needs: About 30 minutes of daily activity.
• Noise level: Moderate — will alert but not excessive.
• Renter tip: Excellent for renters wanting a friendly, social pup.

Löwchens are among the best dogs for apartments for their playful and gentle nature. While they get along with people and pets, they have prominent personalities. They also have lots of energy, but a half-hour outdoors will do the trick.

33. Maltese

• Shedding: Very low
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Fearless, affectionate, social.
• Exercise needs: Short walks + light play.
• Noise level: Can be barky if left alone too long.
• Renter tip: Perfect for renters who are home often.

Despite their small size and furry coats, Maltese dogs are fearless. They aren't afraid to get into trouble but are also gentle and make great companions. This apartment dog is best for owners who are home frequently.

34. Toy Manchester Terriers

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: High
• Energy: High
• Temperament: Loyal, athletic, protective.
• Exercise needs: Daily walk + active play.
• Noise level: Can be barky watchdogs.
• Renter tip: Best for renters who enjoy an active lifestyle

Toy Manchester terriers are loyal watchdogs at heart. They love exercise, playing, and new challenges, but they're not big on being separated for long periods. They are prone to barking, especially if you leave them alone for too long.

35. Miniature Pinschers

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: Very high
• Energy: Very high
• Temperament: Bold, energetic, bossy.
• Exercise needs: Long walks + vigorous play.
• Noise level: High — prone to barking.
• Renter tip: Best for experienced renters who can handle their big personality.

Miniature pinschers come with oversized personalities. They enjoy being the alpha in the house and are quite bossy when left unchecked. However, their small size makes them easy to take with you to dog-friendly parks or local festivals.

36. Pekingese

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: Very low
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Regal, loyal, affectionate.
• Exercise needs: Short daily walks.
• Noise level: Very quiet.
• Renter tip: Great for renters who prefer a calm, low-energy dog.

Pekingese are affectionate lapdogs with a calm nature, making them perfect for apartments. They don’t require much exercise but do need regular grooming to keep their coat healthy.

37. Pomeranians

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: High
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Playful, alert, confident.
• Exercise needs: Daily walks + indoor play.
• Noise level: Barky watchdogs.
• Renter tip: Best for renters who don’t mind some noise.

Pomeranians are cute and fluffy but come equipped with a sassy, quirky disposition. Their size makes it easy to keep them in an apartment, and some light exercise keeps them happy. These apartment dogs enjoy roaming and meeting new people but are also content to keep up with your busy schedule.

38. Toy Poodles

• Shedding: Very low
• Barking: High
• Energy: High
• Temperament: Intelligent, trainable, active.
• Exercise needs: Daily walk + mental stimulation.
• Noise level: High without training.
• Renter tip: Excellent for renters who want a smart, hypoallergenic dog.

Toy poodles are renowned for their hypoallergenic fur and are often cross bred to reduce human allergies. They're also destined for the spotlight and are natural performers, making them eager to learn a few tricks. These furry friends are also intelligent and like to be in charge, meaning they need some training to get the rules down.

39. Pugs

• Shedding: High
• Barking: Very low
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Charming, playful, loving.
• Exercise needs: Short walks + light play.
• Noise level: Quiet, though prone to snoring.
• Renter tip: Great for renters seeking a quiet, affectionate dog.

With a pint-sized stature, pugs are among the best dogs for apartments. They're also performers with a desire to watch over their domain. Pugs are also here for all the doggie play dates you can manage. Make sure you give them lots of attention because they will demand to be the center of attention anyway.

40. Schipperkes

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: High
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Mischievous, alert, active.
• Exercise needs: Daily walks + play.
• Noise level: Barky watchdogs.
• Renter tip: Best for renters who can provide consistent training.

Schipperkes are little devils in disguise, though they are great for urban apartments prone to the occasional pest. They tend to be noisy, so you'll need training and exercise to keep them from barking.

41. Shiba Inus

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Independent, bold, loyal.
• Exercise needs: Daily walk + playtime.
• Noise level: Moderate; more prone to “Shiba screams” than barking.
• Renter tip: Best for renters who can handle strong-willed dogs.

If you have the energy to spare, you've met your challenge in a shiba inu. They're great apartment dogs with an upbeat outlook but need exercise and training. They're outgoing and love to play with humans of all ages, but they do get territorial and protective. They're always up for a game of chase and need some work on keeping their fiery personality under control.

42. Shih Tzus

• Shedding: Very low
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, outgoing.
• Exercise needs: Short daily walks + play.
• Noise level: Moderate, but trainable.
• Renter tip: Excellent for renters wanting a cuddly, low-maintenance dog.

Shih Tzus are excellent apartment dogs and are always up for some cuddling and affection. They need some exercise but otherwise are relatively low-energy dogs. Keep your social calendar on alert — these pups are outgoing and enjoy strangers, children, and time with their people.

43. Silky Terriers

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: High
• Energy: Medium
• Temperament: Lively, intelligent, loyal.
• Exercise needs: Daily walk + games.
• Noise level: High; prone to barking if bored.
• Renter tip: Best for renters who enjoy active playtime and training.

Silky terriers want to spend the day with their owners, whether you're cleaning your apartment or on a Zoom call in your home office. This small breed is among the best dogs for apartments but does have some undesirable behavior when left unattended. They enjoy a good dig and chase, so make sure you give them plenty of exercise and mental challenges.

44. Toy Fox Terriers

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: High
• Energy: High
• Temperament: Spirited, alert, curious.
• Exercise needs: Daily walk + play sessions.
• Noise level: High — can be yappy without training.
• Renter tip: Great for renters who can commit to training and stimulation.

The toy fox terrier enjoys apartment life, even without a yard. But they can't deal with cold weather, so make sure you get them some stylish sweaters for winter walks. They also need training and a little reassurance that the outside city noise won’t destroy their happy home.

45.Yorkshire Terriers

• Shedding: Very low
• Barking: High
• Energy: High
• Temperament: Confident, affectionate, spirited.
• Exercise needs: Daily walk + indoor play.
• Noise level: High; natural watchdogs.
• Renter tip: Great for renters seeking a portable, affectionate pup.

The Yorkshire terrier is feisty and ready to take over your entire apartment. They don't mind close quarters but need exercise and socialization to play nice with strangers and other dogs. You might need to save for utilities in summer months, as Yorkies are prone to chills and need a sweater if you want to run the air conditioner on high all summer.

How to Choose the Best Dog for Apartment Living

• Busy professionals? Low-energy dogs like Pugs, Bolognese, or Shih Tzus.
• Work-from-home renters? Social breeds like French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, or Havanese.
• Active renters? High-energy dogs like Italian Greyhounds, Miniature Pinschers, or Basenjis.
• Allergies? Hypoallergenic breeds like Maltese, Toy Poodles, or Bichon Frisés.

Find Dog-Friendly Apartments Near You

If you're ready to adopt a new friend, take the time to choose the best dogs for apartments. You'll need to consider any lease agreement rules, breed restrictions, your own temperament, and the area where you live.

Ready to find a pet-friendly apartment? Sign up with Apartment List to find the perfect place for you and your furry friend. Make sure to select "small" or "large" dogs (or both) when you sign up with us. You can visit your profile anytime to change your preferences.

Best Apartment Dogs FAQs

Are dogs happy in apartments?

Dogs that receive an appropriate amount of exercise, stimulation, and nutrition will be just as happy in an apartment as a house, including large dogs. As long as you walk and play with your dog enough to satisfy its energy levels, dogs do not mind living in smaller spaces.

Is it hard to live with a dog in an apartment?

It is not hard to live with a dog in an apartment if you don't mind taking them to the bathroom and making sure they have regular exercise and stimulation. If you are happy to go outside regularly with your dog, then they probably won't even notice that you don't live in a house.

What breed of dog makes a good apartment dog?

Top breeds for apartment dogs include Affenpinschers, Biewer Terriers, Bulldogs, Italian Greyhounds, and Lhasa Apsos. These dogs all have low to medium levels of shedding, barking, and energy. Our list of 45 best apartment dogs, though, has lots more options for you to choose from.

How do you tire a puppy in an apartment?

If you're stuck inside with a puppy that has the zoomies, here are a few things you can try:

• Meal puzzles
• Puppy push ups
• Obedience training
• Practicing long "stays"
• Running up and down stairs (if you have them)
• Find it

What dog breed has the most separation anxiety?

Chinese cresteds, Manchester terriers, Chihuahuas, and German shepherds tend to have high separation anxiety. However, it depends on the individual dog and whether they're a mixed breed.

What is the quietest dog for an apartment?

The Pekingese wins out if you're looking for the best quiet apartment dogs. They don't bark much but still have feisty personalities. Bulldogs and coton de Tulears, basenjis, and Bologneses are also quiet breeds.

What breed of dog can be left alone?

If you enjoy a busy lifestyle, ensure you get a dog that can deal with being left alone. Greyhounds, basset hounds, and French bulldogs are all usually alone but are still happy to see you when you get home.