15 Best Dog Breeds for Apartment Living

Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier is a small dog breed that originated in England. They typically grow up to 22.5 cm in height and weigh around 3 kg. This breed is known for being sociable and cheerful, making them a beloved companion for many owners. One of the unique features of Yorkshire Terriers is their variety of interesting haircuts that their owners love to indulge them in. They have a minimal shedding coat, which makes them an ideal choice for individuals with allergies or asthma.

Despite their small size, Yorkies are energetic and require regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy. They are intelligent and can be trained easily, which makes them suitable for families and individuals alike. Additionally, they are known to be loyal and protective, making them excellent watchdogs. Overall, the Yorkshire Terrier is a delightful and popular breed due to its friendly nature, low shedding coat, and adaptability to various living environments.

Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are the ideal dogs for apartment living - both the short-haired and long-haired Mexican Chihuahuas. These tiny dogs are known for their small size, with the average weight ranging from 1 to 3 kg. Chihuahuas have a distinct appearance, characterized by their large, round eyes and prominent ears. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, adding to their charm. Despite their size, Chihuahuas are known for their big personalities.

They are often described as confident, alert, and sometimes even feisty. Chihuahuas are known to form strong bonds with their owners and can be quite protective. They require minimal exercise and are content with short walks or play sessions indoors. Due to their small size, they are prone to cold weather, so it's essential to keep them warm during colder months. Chihuahuas are intelligent and can be trained easily, but they may also have a stubborn streak. Overall, Chihuahuas make excellent companions for those living in apartments, thanks to their small size, low exercise needs, and affectionate nature.

Toy Terrier

The Toy Terrier is a small dog breed that is well-suited for apartment living. They typically weigh between 1.5 to 2.6 kg and can grow up to 26 cm in height. This breed requires basic care procedures, such as cleaning the eyes, ears, and teeth regularly. Additionally, their nails should be trimmed, and for smooth-coated Toy Terriers, brushing with a rubber glove can help keep their coat looking neat. Toy Terriers are known for their lively and affectionate nature, making them great companions for individuals or families in smaller living spaces.

Despite their small size, they are often confident and fearless, which can make them excellent watchdogs. They are intelligent and trainable, although they may have a stubborn streak at times. Toy Terriers typically have a good energy level and require regular exercise to keep them fit and happy. Due to their small size, they can be more sensitive to extreme temperatures, so it's important to ensure their comfort and safety in different weather conditions. Overall, the Toy Terrier is a delightful breed that can thrive in apartment settings with proper care and attention.

Pomeranian

The Pomeranian Spitz, also known as the Pomeranian, originated in Germany, just like its larger counterpart, the German Spitz. An adult Pomeranian weighs no more than 3 kg and stands at a height of up to 30 cm. They make wonderful companions for a single owner or an elderly couple. However, it is not advisable to introduce them into a family with young children, as the dog may become aggressive. It is important to train the Pomeranian to prevent excessive barking and aggression. Despite their small size, Pomeranians are known for their lively and energetic nature.

They are intelligent and can be easily trained, making them suitable for various living environments. Pomeranians have a thick double coat that requires regular grooming to keep it in good condition. They are generally friendly and sociable with proper socialization, but they can be wary of strangers. Overall, the Pomeranian Spitz is a charming and lively breed, but it is important to provide proper training and socialization to ensure a well-behaved and happy companion.

Jack Russell Terrier

The Jack Russell Terrier is a highly active and agile dog. As an adult, they typically reach a height of 30 cm and weigh around 8 kg. While they can be suitable for apartment living, they may not be the best choice for elderly or less active individuals. Jack Russell Terriers are known for their boundless energy and require plenty of physical and mental stimulation to thrive. They are intelligent and curious dogs, always eager for new adventures and challenges. Due to their high energy levels, they benefit from regular exercise and playtime.

Jack Russell Terriers have a strong prey drive and may exhibit hunting instincts, so it's important to provide them with proper training and socialization from an early age. They can be independent and stubborn at times, requiring a confident and consistent owner. With the right care and attention, Jack Russell Terriers can make loving and loyal companions for active individuals or families who are willing to meet their exercise and mental stimulation needs.

Pug

The Chinese Pug is a popular medium-sized dog breed often chosen for apartment living. Adult males can reach a height of 36 cm, while females typically reach 30 cm. A healthy weight for a properly fed Pug is around 10-11 kg. They are characterized by their distinct features, including a dark "mask" on their wrinkled face and large bulging eyes. Chinese Pugs are frequently selected as apartment dogs due to their friendly and adaptable nature. They are known for their affectionate and sociable behavior, making them great companions for individuals or families. Pugs generally get along well with children and other pets. They have a moderate energy level and enjoy regular walks and playtime.

In terms of grooming, Pugs have a short coat that requires minimal maintenance. However, their facial wrinkles should be cleaned regularly to prevent any skin issues. Pugs are generally easy to train and are eager to please their owners. With their charming appearance and playful personalities, Chinese Pugs bring joy and laughter to their households. They are a delightful breed that can adapt well to apartment living and provide companionship to their owners.

French Bulldog

The French Bulldog is a small dog breed, reaching a height of up to 34 cm and a weight of up to 14 kg. They are known for their affectionate and playful nature, and they greatly value companionship. French Bulldogs make excellent apartment dogs, although they may not be the best choice for households with young children. Many people often confuse French Bulldogs with Boston Terriers due to their visual similarities. However, French Bulldogs have distinct characteristics, including their bat-like ears, compact bodies, and expressive faces. They have a short coat that requires minimal grooming.

French Bulldogs are generally friendly and sociable, getting along well with other pets and making great companions for individuals or families. They enjoy being part of the family and thrive on attention and affection. Although they may not be the most active breed, they still benefit from regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight. Overall, the French Bulldog is a lovable and charming breed that thrives in a loving and attentive home environment. They are well-suited for apartment living and bring joy and companionship to their owners.

Dachshund

The Dachshund, also known as the "sausage dog," is a breed that originated in Germany as a hunting dog. There are different varieties of Dachshunds, including miniature (weighing up to 5 kg), rabbit (up to 4 kg), and standard (up to 12 kg). They come in three coat types: smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired. All of these variations make them suitable breeds for apartment living. Dachshunds are known for their unique body shape, with long bodies and short legs. They have a strong prey drive and were originally bred to hunt small game, such as badgers and rabbits. Despite their hunting background, Dachshunds are also cherished as companions and family pets.

These dogs have a friendly and playful nature, making them ideal for families and individuals alike. They are generally good with children and get along well with other pets, although early socialization is important. Dachshunds are known for their loyalty and love to be involved in family activities. While they may have a small size, Dachshunds still require regular exercise to maintain their overall health and prevent weight gain. They enjoy walks and playtime, but their long backs should be protected from jumping or excessive strain. In summary, Dachshunds are versatile and adaptable dogs that can thrive in apartment living. They offer companionship, loyalty, and a playful spirit to their owners, making them a popular choice for many households.

Maltese

The Maltese, also known as the Maltese Bichon, is a small dog breed that typically grows up to 25 cm in height and weighs up to 3.5 kg. They are known for their loving and devoted nature, showing immense affection towards their owners. However, they can be wary of strangers and may exhibit protective behavior. Maltese dogs are known for their beautiful long, silky white coats, which require regular grooming to keep them in good condition. They are often considered hypoallergenic, making them a suitable choice for individuals with allergies.

Training is essential for Maltese dogs, especially when it comes to barking. They have a tendency to be vocal and may bark excessively if not properly trained. Early socialization is important to ensure they become well-rounded and confident dogs. Despite their small size, Maltese dogs are generally energetic and enjoy daily exercise, such as short walks or play sessions. They are adaptable to apartment living and can thrive in various living environments. In summary, the Maltese is a small and affectionate breed that forms a strong bond with its owner. They require regular grooming and training to manage their barking tendencies. With proper care and attention, Maltese dogs can bring joy and companionship to their owners' lives.

Pekingese

The Pekingese is a dog breed that originated in China and was once owned exclusively by emperors. This breed shares a visual resemblance with the Japanese Shih Tzu, another favored breed of emperors but from Japan. Pekingese dogs are known for their distinctive appearance, characterized by a stocky body, a flat face, and a profuse double coat. They have a mane-like ruff around their neck and feathering on their tail. Their coat can come in various colors, including black, fawn, and white.

Despite their small size, Pekingese dogs have a strong and confident personality. They are known for their independent nature and can be somewhat stubborn. Early socialization and consistent training are important to ensure they develop good manners and obedience. Pekingese dogs are typically loyal and devoted to their owners, forming strong bonds with their families. They are generally good with children but may not tolerate rough handling. Due to their brachycephalic (short-faced) structure, Pekingese dogs may be prone to certain health issues and require special care, including monitoring their breathing and preventing overheating.

Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu, also known as the "Chrysanthemum Dog," is a decorative Chinese breed that typically grows up to 28 cm in height and weighs up to 8 kg. They are known for their affectionate and cuddly nature, displaying a strong love for their owners. Shih Tzus are well-suited for families with children and are generally friendly towards other dogs and pets. These dogs thrive on attention and companionship and do not do well when left alone for long periods. They enjoy being a part of family activities and may become anxious or develop behavioral issues if neglected. Therefore, they may not be the best choice for busy owners who cannot provide sufficient time and attention.

Shih Tzus have a luxurious and long coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and keep it in good condition. Their coat can come in various colors, including white, black, gold, and combinations of these. Despite their small size, Shih Tzus have a sturdy and confident demeanor. They are generally good-natured and adapt well to different living environments, including apartments. Proper socialization and basic training are important to ensure they develop good manners and become well-rounded companions.

Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested is a unique dog breed that can grow up to 30 cm in height and weigh around 5 kg. It is well-suited for apartment living due to its small size. The most common variety of this breed is the hairless Chinese Crested, which typically has hair on its tail, head, ears, and paws. The Chinese Crested is known for its loyalty and devotion, making it a faithful companion. It thrives on affection, enjoying gentle strokes and cuddles from its owners. This breed can become emotionally attached to its family, and prolonged separation can lead to stress-related health issues.

One of the advantages of the Chinese Crested is that it does not shed, making it suitable for individuals with allergies. However, it requires regular skin care and protection from the sun due to its hairless nature. The coated variety, known as the Powderpuff, has a full coat of hair and requires regular grooming to maintain its appearance. In summary, the Chinese Crested is a loving and affectionate breed that makes a loyal companion. It is well-suited for apartment living and is a good choice for individuals with allergies due to its non-shedding coat. However, proper skin care and attention are necessary to keep this unique breed healthy and happy.

Poodle

The Poodle is a versatile dog breed that comes in different sizes, with the miniature (up to 38 cm tall, weighing 7-8 kg) and toy Poodle (growing up to 24 cm and weighing around 5.5 kg) being suitable for city living. They are not only well-suited for apartment living but also make cheerful family members. Poodles are known for their intelligence and understanding of human speech. They often have a strong bond with their families and are particularly fond of children. They enjoy going for walks, playing, and performing tricks, making them a fun and interactive addition to the household.

Proper nutrition is important for Poodles, as they have a tendency to become overweight. It is crucial to monitor their diet and prevent obesity, as it can lead to various health issues. One of the distinctive features of Poodles is their curly, hypoallergenic coat, which requires regular grooming to prevent matting. They come in different colors, such as black, white, apricot, and silver.

American Cocker Spaniel

The American Cocker Spaniel is an active and lively dog breed that typically grows up to 39 cm in height and weighs up to 15 kg. While it is suitable for city living, it is important to ensure that they receive plenty of exercise and walks. The American Cocker Spaniel is known for its energy and enthusiasm. They thrive on regular physical activity and mental stimulation. Daily walks, playtime, and interactive games are important for keeping them happy and healthy.

In addition to exercise, the American Cocker Spaniel also requires regular grooming to maintain their beautiful coat. Their coat is dense and can come in various colors, such as black, buff, and parti-color.
This breed is generally friendly and sociable, making them suitable for families and individuals alike. They often get along well with children and other pets. However, early socialization and training are important to ensure that they develop good manners and behavior.

English Bulldog

The English Bulldog is a medium-sized dog with a height of up to 41 cm and a weight of up to 26 kg. It is known for its calm and gentle nature, making it a great companion for adults and a tolerant playmate for children. The English Bulldog has a distinctive appearance with a muscular build, a wrinkled face, and a pushed-in nose. They have a short, smooth coat that comes in various colors, including brindle, fawn, and white.

Despite their sturdy and muscular build, English Bulldogs are not known for being overly active. They prefer a relaxed and laid-back lifestyle, making them suitable for apartment living. However, they still require regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight. In terms of temperament, English Bulldogs are known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners. They are generally friendly and social, getting along well with other pets and people. However, they can be stubborn at times, so consistent and patient training is necessary.

Due to their unique physical features, English Bulldogs may experience certain health issues, including breathing difficulties and joint problems. Regular veterinary check-ups and proper care are important to ensure their well-being. Overall, the English Bulldog is a charming and easygoing breed that makes a wonderful companion for individuals and families alike.