The best apartment dogs are the ones that stay calm in a small space, bark little, and don't need a yard to burn off energy, which is why breeds like the French Bulldog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and Bichon Frisé top most lists. Size matters less than energy and noise; a quiet 60-pound Greyhound is an easier apartment dog than a yappy 10-pound terrier. Before you fall for a breed, check your building's pet policy, because weight limits and breed lists rule out more dogs than square footage does.
A dog is apartment-friendly when it stays calm indoors, barks little, and can meet its exercise needs with daily walks and indoor play. Prioritize these five traits:
The 10 best dog breeds for apartments, in rank order, are the French Bulldog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Bichon Frisé, Pug, Boston Terrier, Bolognese, Coton de Tulear, Pekingese, Basenji, and the Japanese Chin. Ranks 1 to 5 are the breeds most often recommended for apartment living. Ranks 6 to 10 follow this page's trait scores: lowest barking first, then lowest energy, then smallest size. Trait ratings come from American Kennel Club breed profiles.
1. French Bulldog
Why it ranks #1: Very low barking and medium energy make them an all-around apartment fit.
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.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Why it ranks #2: Small size, medium energy, and manageable barking suit apartment routines.
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.
3. Bichon Frisé
Why it ranks #3: Small size and very low shedding are strong apartment perks.
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.
4. Pug
Why it ranks #4: Very low barking and medium energy make Pugs a strong quiet-apartment choice.
5. Boston Terrier
Why it ranks #5: Low barking and compact size help them fit apartment life.
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 terriers tend to overheat and prefer being indoors.
6. Bolognese
Why it ranks #6: Very low barking and very low energy make the Bolognese especially apartment-friendly.
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.
7. Coton de Tulear
Why it ranks #7: Very low barking, small size, and medium energy make the Coton a strong pick.
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.
8. Pekingese
Why it ranks #8: Very low barking, medium energy, and toy size suit smaller apartments.
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.
9. Basenji
Why it ranks #9: Very low barking earns them a spot, but high energy requires an active renter.
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.
10. Japanese Chin
Why it ranks #10: Low barking, medium energy, and toy size suit smaller apartments.
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.
6 of the 45 breeds score very low for barking: Bolognese, French Bulldog, Pug, Coton de Tulear, Pekingese, and Basenji. The table is sorted by barking level first, then energy level. Typical adult weight comes from the American Kennel Club breed weight chart.
| Breed | Size Class | Typical Weight | Energy | Barking | Shedding |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bolognese | Toy | 6-10 lb | Very low | Very low | Very low |
| French Bulldog | Small | Under 28 lb | Medium | Very low | Medium |
| Pug | Small | 14-18 lb | Medium | Very low | High |
| Coton de Tulear | Toy | 8-15 lb | Medium | Very low | Low |
| Pekingese | Toy | Up to 14 lb | Medium | Very low | Medium |
| Basenji | Small | 22-24 lb | High | Very low | Low |
| Japanese Chin | Toy | 7-11 lb | Medium | Low | Medium |
| Bulldog | Medium | 40-50 lb | Medium | Low | Medium |
| Boston Terrier | Small | 12-25 lb | High | Low | Low |
| Bitsa (mixed breed) | Varies | Varies by mix | Varies by mix | Low to medium (varies) | Low to medium (varies) |
| Breed | Size Class | Typical Weight | Energy | Barking | Shedding |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basset Hound | Medium | 40-65 lb | Low | Medium to High | Medium |
| Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | Small | 13-18 lb | Medium | Medium | Low |
| Affenpinscher | Toy | 7-10 lb | Medium | Medium | Medium |
| American Hairless Terrier | Small to medium | 12-28 lb | Medium | Medium | Very low |
| Barbet | Medium to large | 35-65 lb | Medium | Medium | Very low |
| Border Terrier | Small | 11.5-15.5 lb | Medium | Medium | Low |
| Cesky Terrier | Small | 14-24 lb | Medium | Medium | Low |
| Chinese Crested | Toy | 8-12 lb | Medium | Medium | Very low |
| Italian Greyhound | Toy | 7-14 lb | Medium | Medium | Medium |
| Lhasa Apso | Small | 12-18 lb | Medium | Medium | Very low |
| Breed | Size Class | Typical Weight | Energy | Barking | Shedding |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Löwchen | Toy | Up to 15 lb | Medium | Medium | Low |
| Maltese | Toy | Up to 7 lb | Medium | Medium | Very low |
| Shiba Inu | Small | 17-23 lb | Medium | Medium | Medium |
| Shih Tzu | Small | 9-16 lb | Medium | Medium | Very low |
| Bichon Frisé | Small | 12-18 lb | High | Medium | Very low |
| Basset Fauve de Bretagne | Small to medium | 23-39 lb | High | Medium | Medium |
| Bedlington Terrier | Small | 17-23 lb | High | Medium | Very low |
| Cocker Spaniel | Small to medium | 20-30 lb | High | Medium | Medium |
| American Eskimo Dog | Small to medium | 6-35 lb | Medium | Medium to high | Medium |
| Biewer Terrier | Toy | 4-8 lb | Medium | High | Low |
| Breed | Size Class | Typical Weight | Energy | Barking | Shedding |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brussels Griffon | Toy | 8-10 lb | Medium | High | Medium |
| Cairn Terrier | Small | 13-14 lb | Medium | High | Low |
| Havanese | Toy | 7-13 lb | Medium | High | Low |
| Pomeranian | Toy | 3-7 lb | Medium | High | Low |
| Schipperke | Small | 10-16 lb | Medium | High | Medium |
| Silky Terrier | Toy | 10 lb | Medium | High | Low |
| Cardigan Welsh Corgi | Medium | 25-38 lb | High | High | Medium |
| Toy Manchester Terrier | Toy | 12 lb | High | High | Low |
| Toy Poodle | Toy | 4-6 lb | High | High | Very low |
| Toy Fox Terrier | Toy | 4-9 lb | High | High | Medium |
| Breed | Size Class | Typical Weight | Energy | Barking | Shedding |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yorkshire Terrier | Toy | 7 lb | High | High | Very low |
| Dachshund | Small to medium | 11-32 lb | Medium | Very high | Low |
| Australian Terrier | Small | 15-20 lb | High | Very high | Very low |
| Chihuahua | Toy | 6 lb | High | Very high | Low |
| Miniature Pinscher | Toy | 8-10 lb | Very high | Very high | Medium |
Trait ratings drawn from American Kennel Club breed profiles, checked October 2026. Bitsa is a mixed breed, not an AKC breed, so its row shows typical ranges.
The quietest apartment dog breeds are the French Bulldog, Pug, Bolognese, Pekingese, and Coton de Tulear, which all score very low for barking. The Japanese Chin scores low. For more, see 20 Quiet Dog Breeds Ranked by Noise Level.
| Breed | Shedding | Barking | Energy | Best Fit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| French Bulldog | Medium | Very low | Medium | Calm, social |
| Pug | High | Very low | Medium | Playful, loves companionship |
| Bolognese | Very low | Very low | Very low | Relaxed, loves lounging |
| Pekingese | Medium | Very low | Medium | Regal, quiet companion |
| Coton de Tulear | Low | Very low | Medium | Adaptable, clownish personality |
The Bichon Frisé, Maltese, Toy Poodle, and Shih Tzu have very low shedding, and the Coton de Tulear sheds little too.
| Breed | Shedding | Barking | Energy | Why It Works for Apartments |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bichon Frisé | Very low | Medium | High | Low-shedding, playful |
| Maltese | Very low | Medium | Medium | Loyal lap dog, minimal shedding |
| Toy Poodle | Very low | High | High | Intelligent, low-shedding |
| Shih Tzu | Very low | Medium | Medium | Great for cuddling, moderate activity |
| Coton de Tulear | Low | Very low | Medium | Adaptable, clownish personality |
The best breeds for a small apartment are the smallest ones that also score low on barking: Bolognese, Japanese Chin, Coton de Tulear, Pekingese, and Bichon Frisé.
Weight limits can rule out dogs even when a property otherwise welcomes pets. Check your lease for maximum weight or size requirements, and read more about breed restrictions in pet-friendly apartments.
Breed lists may restrict specific dogs or mixes. Review your policy and learn more about commonly restricted dog breeds.
Pet costs can include pet rent, a pet fee, or a pet deposit. Compare pet fees, pet rent, and pet deposits and pet-friendly apartment amenities.
Yes. A calm, lower-energy large dog can suit an apartment better than a small, high-energy one. A Greyhound, for example, is quiet indoors and needs a daily walk rather than a yard. The catch is weight limits, so check your building's rules in our guide to breed restrictions first.
Bolognese, French Bulldogs, Coton de Tulears, Pekingese, and Pugs score very low for barking. Basenjis also score very low and are known as barkless dogs, but they have high energy and may yodel instead. Japanese Chins and Boston Terriers score low.
Most apartment dogs need at least one daily walk plus indoor play. Low-energy breeds such as Bolognese, Pugs, French Bulldogs, and Pekingese do well with short daily walks. Higher-energy breeds such as Basenjis need vigorous walks or runs every day, and Bichon Frisés need daily walks plus indoor play.
Not necessarily. Landlords may set weight limits, breed lists, or other pet rules, so review your building's policy before you adopt. For how these rules work, see our guide to breed restrictions.
An adult dog is usually the easier fit because its size, temperament, and energy are more predictable. Puppies can thrive in apartments, but they need more bathroom breaks, training, and supervision, especially in a building with shared walls.
Mixed breeds can be excellent apartment dogs. Focus on the individual dog's size, energy, barking, temperament, and exercise needs rather than on its breed mix.
Find a home for you and your dog with pet-friendly apartments in Dallas, Los Angeles, Phoenix, or wherever your plan to live with Apartment List's pet-friendly apartment search.
These 35 breeds round out the list of 45, in alphabetical order. Each profile uses the same trait ratings as the comparison table.
Affenpinscher
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.
American Eskimo Dog
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.
American Hairless Terrier
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.
Australian Terrier
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.
Barbet
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.
Basset Fauve de Bretagne
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!
Basset Hound
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 day.
Bedlington Terrier
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.
Biewer Terrier
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.
Bitsa (mixed breed)
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 Bitsa's temperament can change based on its specific mix.
Border Terrier
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.
Brussels Griffon
Brussels griffons are among the best dogs for apartments but come with high sensitivity levels and a tendency to bark. 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.
Bulldog
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.
Cairn Terrier
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.
Cardigan Welsh Corgi
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.
Cesky Terrier
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.
Chihuahua
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.
Chinese Crested
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.
Cocker Spaniel
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.
Dachshund
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.
Havanese
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.
Italian Greyhound
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.
Lhasa Apso
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.
Löwchen
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.
Maltese
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.
Miniature Pinscher
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.
Pomeranian
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.
Schipperke
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.
Shiba Inu
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.
Shih Tzu
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.
Silky Terrier
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.
Toy Fox Terrier
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.
Toy Manchester Terrier
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.
Toy Poodle
Toy poodles are known for their curly, low-shedding coats. 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.
Yorkshire Terrier
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.
In unit laundry, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, 24hr maintenance, Garage + more
