Getting a new dog can be a big decision when you’re moving to an apartment. It’s really tough when you don’t know where to start, don’t have the time, and don’t have the right information to find good apartment dogs. We’ve decided to take all the guess work out and put together a list of the top 50 best dogs for apartment living. Oh yes…we also know you either like really big dogs or really small dogs, so we put each of them into their appropriate categories. And if that’s not enough apartment dog info for you, check out the most popular dogs in your city!
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Most Popular Toy Dog Apartment Breeds
Most Popular Small Dog Breeds for Apartments
Top Medium Dog Apartment Breeds
Top Large Dog Breeds for Apartments
Most Popular Extra Large Apartment Breeds
Most Popular Toy Dog Apartment Breeds
Chihuahua
Description: The Chihuahua hates the cold and may shiver. It will tolerate and even appreciate a warm sweater on cooler days. They are great little dogs for apartment life.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: The Chihuahua is a good companion dog.
Price Range: $750 to $2000+
Dachshund
Description: Good for apartment living. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard.
Safe around small children? No
Temperament: They are best with older, considerate children and are moderately protective.
Price Range: $250 to $500+
Pekingese
Description: The Pekingese are good for apartment life. They are relatively inactive indoors and will do okay without a yard.
Safe around small children? No
Temperament: Not recommended for young children who are too rough
Price Range: $500 to $1500+
Miniature Pinscher
Description: The Miniature Pinscher is good for apartment life. It is very active indoors and will do okay without a yard. The Miniature Pinscher should be protected from the cold.
Safe around small children? No
Temperament: Some can be very aggressive with other dogs, but they are generally good with other pets and children provided the children do not pester.
Price Range: $500 to $1500+
Pomeranian
Description: The Pomeranian is good for apartment living. They are very active indoors and will do okay without a yard. Keep the dog quiet in hot weather to avoid overheating.
Safe around small children? No
Temperament: Not recommended for very young children. Too much attention from children can make these dogs nervous and they may become snappish.
Price Range: $500 to $5000+
Pug
Description: The Pug is good for apartment life. It is relatively inactive indoors and will do okay without a yard. Cannot withstand hot or cold weather and should be kept indoors at a comfortable temperature.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: Pugs get along well with other dogs and pets, and they behave impeccably with both children and visitors.
Price Range: $500 to $1000+
Shih-Tzu
Description: The Shih Tzu is good for apartment life. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard. This breed is sensitive to the heat.
Safe around small children? No
Temperament: This breed does well with polite, careful children.
Price Range: $600 to $1500+
Most Popular Small Dog Breeds for Apartments
Basset Hound
Description: The Basset hound will do okay in an apartment. They are very inactive indoors but outdoors they will run for hours in play if given the chance. They will do okay without a yard, but should be given plenty of opportunities to run and play to keep it healthy and trim.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: They are mild but not timid; very affectionate with its master and friendly with children.
Price Range: $500 to $1000+
Beagle
Description: Beagles will do okay in an apartment if they get plenty of chances to be outdoors. They are very active indoors and a small yard will be sufficient.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: Excellent with children and generally good with other dogs, but should not be trusted with non-canine pets, unless they are socialized with cats and other household animals when they are young.
Price Range: $200 to $1000+
Schipperke
Description: The Schipperke are good dogs for apartment life. They are very active indoors. These dogs are incredibly quick and it is a good idea to have a fenced yard.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: They are wary of strangers and may seem somewhat aloof, but are actually very devoted and loyal, especially with children.
Price Range: $400 to $800
Bichon Frise
Description: The Bichon Frise can live in an apartment if it gets enough exercise. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: This sociable trait also means that they are fine in the company of other dogs & pets and are excellent with children.
Price Range: $500 to $1000+
Boston Terrier
Description: Boston Terriers are good for apartment as well as country living. They are relatively inactive indoors and do okay without a yard. This breed is sensitive to weather extremes.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: Most reliable with children, especially good with elderly people and very friendly with strangers.
Price Range: $600 to $2000+
Bulldog
Description: The English Bulldog is good for apartment life. They are very inactive indoors and will do okay without a yard. This breed is an indoor dog. Bulldogs do best in temperate climates as the breed can chill easily in cold weather and have trouble cooling off in very hot weather.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: It is described as a very affectionate and dependable animal, gentle with children, but known for its courage and its excellent guarding abilities.
Price Range: $1500 to $3000+
Cairn Terrier
Description: The Cairn Terrier will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. It is very active indoors and will do okay without a yard.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: Naturally patient with children and very playful.
Price Range: $200 to $600+
Chinese Shar-Pei
Description: The Chinese Shar-Pei will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. It is moderately active indoors and will do okay without a yard. Because of their padded head, the Shar-Pei is very sensitive to heat. Shade and water must always be available. Provided they get enough exercise, they will be very peaceful indoors.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: If the dog meets cats and children while it is still young, it usually will not have a problem with them.
Price Range: $400 to $2000+
Lhasa Apso
Description: These dogs are good for apartment living. They are very active indoors and will do okay without a yard.
Safe around small children? No
Temperament: These little dogs are affectionate with their masters, but they will not tolerate rough or badly behaved children.
Price Range: $300 to $500+
Maltese
Description: The Maltese is a good dog for apartment life. They are very active indoors and will do okay without a yard.
Safe around small children? No
Temperament: These dogs can be snappish with inconsiderate children and may be difficult to housebreak.
Price Range: $600 to $1000+
Miniature Schnauzer
Description: The Miniature Schnauzer is a good dog for apartment life. It is fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: Playful, happy and alert, they like children.
Price Range: $500 to $1500
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Description: The Pembroke will do fine in an apartment if they are sufficiently exercised. This breed is very active indoors and will do okay without a yard. They will do okay in most climates.
Safe around small children? No
Temperament: Corgis are extremely active and devoted little dogs, and are usually good with considerate children.
Price Range: $200 to $500
Scottish Terrier (Scottie)
Description: This dog is good for apartment living. It is moderately active indoors and will do okay without a yard. Prefers cool climates.
Safe around small children? No
Temperament: The breed does best with older considerate child.
Price Range: $600 to $1000
West Highland White Terrier
Description: West Highland White Terriers are suitable for people in towns and cities as well as in the country. They are very active indoors and will do okay without a yard.
Safe around small children? No
Temperament: They are fairly friendly toward strangers and get along well with behaved children.
Price Range: $500 to $1500+
Yorkshire Terrier
Description: The Yorkie is a good dog for apartment life. They are very active indoors and will do okay without a yard. The Yorkie is sensitive to the cold and prefers warm climates.
Safe around small children? No
Temperament: They do best with older, considerate children.
Price Range: $500 to $2500+
Top Medium Dog Apartment Breeds
Australian Shepherd
Description: This breed is not recommended for apartment life. They are moderately active indoors and will do best with at least a large yard.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: Courageous, loyal and affectionate, they are excellent children’s companions that are great with active children.
Price Range: $600 to $1000
American Cocker Spaniel
Description: Cockers will do okay in an apartment if they are adequately exercised, and are fairly active indoors. A small yard is sufficient.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: Usually good with children, Cockers typically love everyone and need people to be happy.
Price Range: $200 to $1000
Brittany Spaniel
Description: The Brittany is not recommended for apartment life. They are very active indoors and will do best with acreage. This breed is resistant to cold and damp conditions.
Safe around small children? No
Temperament: They are good with kids if they are raised with them from puppyhood.
Price Range: $300 to $600
English Springer Spaniel
Description: They will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. English Springer Spaniels adapt well to town or city life. They are relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard.
Safe around small children?
Temperament: Most English Springers are even-tempered, gentle, friendly, and sociable dogs that are great for children.
Price Range: $500 to $5000+
Poodle
Description: Poodles are good for city life as well as country living and will do okay in an apartment. They are very active indoors and will do okay without a yard.
Safe around small children? No
Temperament: Poodles may snap if they are teased or surprised. They do best with older, considerate children and are generally good with other pets and dogs.
Price Range: $200 to $1000+
Top Large Dog Breeds for Apartments
Airedale Terrier
Description: The Airedale Terrier is not recommended for apartment life. They are very active indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard.
Safe around small children? No
Temperament: The Airedale Terrier will usually do okay with children if they have early exposure and socialization, however they may play too rough for small ones.
Price Range: $600 to $800
Akita Inu
Description: The Akita will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. It is moderately active indoors and will do best with a large yard.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: Japanese mothers would often leave their children in the family Akita’s care. Children must be taught to treat these dogs with kindness.
Price Range: $800 to $3000+
Alaskan Malamute
Description: Alaskan Malamutes are not recommended for apartment life. They are fairly active indoors and should have at least a large yard. If you live in a suburban area, a high fence is a must, but bury the base, because they are likely to dig their way out. Alaskan Malamutes like to roam in what he considers to be his territory. The Malamutes coat allows them to withstand extreme cold, but be careful to keep the dog cool in hot climates. Make sure they have shade and plenty of clean cool water.
Safe around small children? No
Temperament: Great with children who are old enough to play with him safely.
Price Range: $500 to $2000+
Boxer
Description: Boxers will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. They are fairly active indoors and do best with at least an average-sized yard. Boxers do best in temperate climates as the breed can chill easily in cold weather and have trouble cooling off in very hot weather.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: Loyal and affectionate, Boxers are known for the way they get along so well with children.
Price Range: $600 to $1500+
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Description Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are not recommended for apartment life. They are relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard. Chesapeake Bay Retrievers like to sleep outdoors. They prefer cool climates to hot unless there is a body of water nearby.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are affectionate and good with children.
Price Range: $300 to $800+
Chow Chow
Description: The Chow Chow will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. It is relatively inactive indoors and a small yard is sufficient. Sensitive to heat, but can live in or outdoors.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: Most Chow Chows like to dominate other dogs, but in contrast, they are quite good with children.
Price Range: $400 to $800+
Collie
Description: The Collie should do okay in an apartment as long as they are sufficiently exercised. They are relatively inactive indoors and do best with at least an average-sized yard. Sensitive to the heat. Provide plenty of shade and fresh water in warm weather.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: It has a fairly good sense of protectiveness for its master, especially for children.
Price Range: $300 to $600
Photo by: something.from.nancy
Dalmatian
Description A Dalmatian is not an ideal dog for apartment dwellers unless it can be taken out for a brisk walk or run several times a day. They are very active indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard. This breed should not be kept outside in the cold.
Safe around small children? No
Temperament: The Dalmatian enjoys playing with children, but may be too rambunctious for toddlers.
Price Range: $800 to $1500+
Doberman Pinscher
Description Will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised, but does best with at least an average-sized yard. Dobes are very cold sensitive and are not an outside dog. That is why police in areas where it gets cold are not able to use them.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: Dobermans can be good family dogs if of good temperament, well trained and raised with children from early puppyhood.
Price Range: $800 to $2500
German Shepherd Dog
Description: The German Shepherd will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. They are relatively inactive indoors and do best with at least a large yard.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: A well bred, well-adjusted, and trained dog is for the most part generally good with other pets and excellent with children in the family.
Price Range: $800 to $2000+
German Shorthaired Pointer
Description This breed is not recommended for apartment life and does best with a large yard and an athletic family. At least a 6-foot high fence is necessary. Bored Shorthairs can become escape artists. Does well in most climates.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: Cheerful and friendly, German Shorthaired Pointers like children.
Price Range: $300 to $800
Golden Retriever
Description: This breed will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. They are moderately active indoors and will do best with at least a medium to large yard.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: They are easily trained, and always patient and gentle with children.
Price Range: $700 to $2500+
Labrador Retriever
Description: Labrador Retrievers will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. They are moderately active indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: They have an excellent, reliable, temperament and are friendly, superb with children and equable with other dogs.
Price Range: $400 to $1000+
Rottweiler
Description: The Rottie will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. They are relatively inactive indoors and a small yard will be sufficient.
Safe around small children? No
Temperament: When the Rottweiler is consistently brought up and trained, it will be a good playmate for the children.
Price Range: $500 to $3000+
Samoyed
Description: The Samoyed will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. It is very active indoors and a small yard is sufficient. Their heavy coat makes these dogs unsuited to life in very hot climates.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: It willingly adapts to family life and gets along well with children.
Price Range: $600 to $1500+
Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie)
Description: The Sheltie will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard.
Safe around small children? No
Temperament: Loving, loyal and affectionate with its family, but suspicious with strangers, especially with children, but they will put up with a lot from children in the family.
Price Range: $400 to $800
Siberian Husky
Description: They are not usually recommended for apartments, however they can live in apartments if well trained and properly exercised. Siberian Huskies are very active indoors and do best with a fenced-in large yard. Because of their heavy coats, these dogs prefer cool climates. One has to use common sense with respect to maintaining them in the heat by providing adequate shade and air conditioning. This breed prefers to live in packs.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: Good with children and friendly with strangers, they are not watchdogs, for they bark little and love everyone.
Price Range: $400 to $800+
Weimaraner
Description Weimaraners will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. They are relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least a large yard.
Safe around small children? No
Temperament: Weimaraners are often kind to children, but are not recommended for very young ones because they are energetic enough to accidentally knock a child down.
Price Range: $400 to $1000
Photo by: Luis Fernando Franco Jiménez
Most Popular Extra Large Apartment Breeds
Great Dane
Description: The Great Dane will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. It is relatively inactive indoors and does best with at least a large yard.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: Dignified, kind, sweet and affectionate, it is playful and patient with children. Teach it not to lean against people and this will help keep children safe from accidents.
Price Range: $600 to $4000+
Photo by: Vicki & Chuck Rogers
Great Pyrenees
Description: These dogs are not recommended for apartment life. They need space, but adapt well to family life. They are not really active indoors, but would be happy with regular exercise outdoors or in a mid-to-large sized yard. Puppies are very active and might have the tendency to wander off or escape. The Great Pyrenees prefers cool climates.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: It is very gentle with its family and children. It does best with children when it is raised with them from puppyhood.
Price Range: $300 to $1000
Mastiff
Description: The Mastiff will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. They are relatively inactive indoors and a small yard will do.
Safe around small children? No
Temperament: Calm, steady and docile, this dog is normally excellent with children, (not recommend for toddlers though, because of their great size)
Price Range: $800 to $3000+
Newfoundland
Description: Will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. They are relatively inactive indoors and a small yard is sufficient. They are sensitive to heat: provide them plenty of shade and cool water in warmer weather. These dogs prefer cool climates.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: Patient, playful, and loving with children; this dog is born to love and babysit.
Price Range: $700 to $2000+
Saint Bernard
Description: The Saint Bernard will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. They are relatively inactive indoors and a small yard is sufficient. They can live outdoors, but would much rather be with their family. They have a low tolerance for hot weather, warm rooms, and cars.
Safe around small children? Yes
Temperament: They are extremely gentle and friendly and very tolerant of children.
Price Range: $600 to $1000+
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Correction: Schipperkes are NOT large dogs. They are about 12-20 pounds, putting them in the same category with a beagle.
thank you jennifer for the recommendation. i’ve put the schipperke back in the small dog category.
Chihuahuas are great dogs, but since they are so small and delicate, young children can play too roughly and cause the dog to snap or bite. They are generally good with older children who play with them gently, but they don’t tend to tolerate small children well.
@Leah – Thank you for sharing. I can sympathize with you on Chihuahua’s and small children. I have personally seen this happen with my very own Yorkshire Terrier a few times…. innocently of course, but has happened nonetheless.
Boxers FTW!.
And im real happy you posted an image of a white boxer.
Its time they are recognized by the AKC.
I have a Bull-mastiff and have found that even Bull-mastiffs also make a very good appartment dog. I take my dog for long walks (5 kms or more) in the morning and a short walk (less than a km.) in the evening. During the day he stays all by himself in his room.
Please include a Bull-mastiff also in the list of appartment dog.
They are very affectionate and beautiful dog.
I recently got a Schipperke – she’s amazing! She is very active, but gets a lot of exercise just running around my apartment. Twice daily walks (one short, one long) and a few bathroom runs are more than enough outdoors time. Barks loudly, but not incessantly, and only when someone is really outside my door. Perfect apartment pet!
i have a dobe..his hair is shedding..how come? could it be due to the hot climate? the dogfood? or the frequent bathing(bathing everyday)?pls help
You are recommending Weimaraners for apartment life? That is not sound, they are very high energy and need constance attention.
@Katie – Thanks for your comment.
Yes we are. Understood that they are very energetic and need constant attention. However, given the right apartment environment with the proper owner, we believe Weimaraners can thrive and be happy.
Thanks for the great list. Very comprehensive, but it would be interesting to note how trainable the breeds are. I’m sure many new owners looking for an apartment dog would find that information valuable. Dachshunds and Bassets for instance are notoriously hard to housebreak, which could prove challenging for apartment-dwellers. It would be nice to see how all the breeds rank in that aspect.
What about Vizslas? Are they too energetic for apartment life?
@christi – Thanks for the comment. We haven’t reviewed Vizslas for apartment life, so we’ll take a look and then post our response here shortly.
What about Italian Greyhounds?
I’m currently looking for a dog for my 1 bedroom apartment. There will be times when my place is empty when I have to go out. (Sometimes maybe even 5 hours?) I am currently considering a pound puppy – a foxie x puppy (father unknown), a chihuahua x mini foxie or a mini foxie. Please advice on my current situation.
@Lex – All of these dogs do have a lot of energy, so that’s definitely something to keep in mind when choosing your next pup. Make sure you buy a crate and get the pup accustomed to it immediately. This will really help when you have to leave the apartment for any amount of time.
All in all and given your particular situation I think a Chihuahua might suit your needs just right. Good Luck!
I was extremely surprised to see you included the shetland sheep dog in the “Large Breed” Category for Apartment Dogs! They can be no taller than 16 inches at the shoulder to be considered for Dog Show Competition. I have two ’shelties’ and one weighs 15 lbs which is quite small and the other weighs 28 lbs and stand about 15 inches at the shoulder which is in line with the breed standard for this little furry, loyal, playful and loveable breed. I will say one thing to take into consideration about shelties – if they do not get enough attention and exercise, they get bored and will bark incessantly. So please give them the loyalty, love and attention they deserve. They will return it 100 fold! I have had a sheltie family member before these girls and have found that they are consistent in temperment if you properly train them and keep them busy and give them lots of love when you are around and give them ‘doing’ toys when you are not. Heck, I had an answering machine that also could monitor sounds in my home. From the time she was a puppy, I called my first sheltie from work a couple of times during the day and talk to her. Yes, she would talk as well – not bark – just dog talk. I would call again later to announce “Mommy is leaving work and will be home in a little while” and that would get happy talking and some lite barks of anticipation. Our ‘talks’ seemed to reassure her. According to neighbors she never had a barking problem and one neighbor reported that she could see her through the window sitting by the answering machine and could tell when I was talking to her on the phone by watching her facial and ear expressions and happy tail action. When I returned home she was always waiting expectantly, but quietly until I openned the door and then we had a love-fest. So please place the sheltie in the medium size group in your online information and do let people know about the propensity for barking if bored or feeling neglected. Thanks for the service you provide. Apartment living isn’t for everyone nor every dog!
Sincerely,
Tammy
Here is what the AKC says this about the breed standard for Shetland Sheep Dogs also nicknamed by some as minature collies:
Size, Proportion, Substance
The Shetland Sheepdog should stand between 13 and 16 inches at the shoulder. Note: Height is determined by a line perpendicular to the ground from the top of the shoulder blades, the dog standing naturally, with forelegs parallel to line of measurement.
@Tammy – Wow! Those are some very helpful tips for all of us. Thank you for taking the time to share.
I am hoping to move into a new apartment within the next couple of years (we’re on the local authority’s housing waiting list), and I’d love to get a small dog when we do move. Unfortunately, both my husband and I work full time, so there would be times where the apartment would be empty for about 6 hours. A small, friendly dog would be preferable, and in particular I’m fond of pugs, dachshunds and beagles. Also quite like miniature schnauzers and west highland terriers. Which of these breeds are most suitable to small apartments and being left alone? Many thanks :)
I’m moving into an apartment with my boyfriend in the next couple of months and am dying to get a dog in the near future (once we’re all settled in). I want a cuddly guy who isn’t too hard to housetrain and will be ok with walks (probably no yard). The only snag that I have is that I have a male tabby siamese mix (we think, he’s a rescue) who is kind of a bully. He never hurts my parents dog (a shit-tzu) but bats and chases him and my parents cat (a tabby). I just want to make sure that Pepper and my new dog would be able to live in relative peace, and that the dog could stand up for its self without hurting Pepper (which is why I thought a medium size would be best, but without a yard… well I’m sure you see the problem. I looked through your awesome list and here are the ones I was drawn to. I really appreciate the time you are taking to reccomend something to me – I can’t wait to adopt a dog into my life!
Toy: long haired chihuahua, pekingese, pomeranian, pug, and shit-tzu
Small: Schipperke, cairn terrier, lhasa apso, maltese, mini-schnauzer, pembroke welsh corgi, west highland white terrier, and yorkie
Medium: Akita Inu, Rottweiler and Samoyed
Thank you so much again!
@shona – you’ll find that dachshunds and highland terriers do very well went needing to be left alone for ‘x’ period of time. in your case, i think both there temperament and personality will suit you very well; additionally, don’t let a dachshunds small hotdog shape body fool you when it comes to keeping your place safe and secure….they’re very good at being a watchdog :)
@leanne – first off i’ve gotta say i’m partial to yorkshire terriers. their loveable personality coupled with an affectionate loyal demeanor makes them my favorite choice. you’ll also find that having a small dog like this is an apartment will reduce the amount of stress on your life. big dogs are great, but they will require an extensive amount of daily effort to keep them happy. hope that helps.
My fiance and I are planning on adding 2 doggie family members to our home in the near future. Our apartment complex allows small breeds only. We’ve researched a few breeds and have agreed on a Pug as one of our two dogs. We live in an apartment with a doggie area in our gated parkig lot. We both have full-time jobs but work close enough to home to visit at lunchtime. We’re planning on having kids within the next 5 years, so our doggies will need to be good with small children. I’m most concerned with choosing a dog that won’t be dominant/aggresive and bully our pug or kids, and is also not prone to barking so we don’t bother our neighbors. Can you recommend a breed that might work for us? Thanks for your help!
@April – Congrats on the engagement! First off, A+ on picking the pug for one of your future apartment pups. They are very loyal, affectionate and loving, with a happy demeanor. Pugs also get along very well with other dogs, and they’re excellent with both children and visitors. Check out our latest article called Designer Dogs: The Perfect Apartment Pet. I think you’ll find that a few of these designer breeds like YorkiePoo’s (a Yorkie and a Poodle) or Puggle’s (a Pug and a Beagle) will suit your future Pug very well. I’d also encourage you to look into some of the pure breed versions of these dogs as well, like the Yorkshire Terrier or the Poodle. I personally have two Yorkie’s and love them to death. They do very well with each other and are very affectionate.
Good luck with your search!
I’m surprised you recommend Great Pyrenees as suitable apartment dogs. They tend and like to roam.
Also, a useful addition to this website/list would be a relative rating of how vocal a breed is, ease of training/housebreaking, and energy level. Consideration of energy level is essential for any tentative dog owner, as a mismatch in this area is a recipe for disaster and an unhappy owner and/or dog. For apartment living, one should seek a dog that is less likely to bark/yap and is relatively easy to housebreak. Another important aspect to consider is how territorial the breed is and its prey drive. Apartment living is not just about being enclosed in a small home; it necessitates living in close quarters with other people and animals. Some breeds are much too territorial and have a high guarding instinct to be content living in apartment complexes where people are always walking by just outside the door. While proper obedience training and socialization can curb innate tendencies to a certain degree, one should take care to choose an animal that will thrive in such an environment given the characteristics that are unique to the breed.
@Renee – Wow! Great feedback and comments, thank you. We will definitely consider adding some of your recommendations to the site soon.
I’m curious what “Will do ok with sufficient exercise” means for the different breeds. I generally have heard that from people at pounds, but it’s a little difficult for me to really ballpark how much exercise a dog will need.
I recently got a dog from a pound; the dog was a rottweiler mix(not my first choice, but I’m unfortunately a little ignorant about dogs!). The lady at the pound told me that I should exercise the dog for about 40 minutes in the morning and 40 at night; just a good walk. Well, that wasn’t really enough. I felt like I was walking a horse. I even took her to the dog park one day for about 3 hours where she didn’t stop moving. When I took her home, she was still overly hyper. I unfortunately had to give her back within a few days(and I was really getting attached to her at that point).
So, what does it generally mean when a dog needs sufficient exercise? I’ve seen others in my complex with huge golden retrievers and others with Irish setters; do you have any advice on how to guage what breed to get? I work full time, but am willing to take a dog for 30 minutes in the morning and a 40-minute jog most nights (or at least a 40 minute walk every night).
Any advice? I want to make sure I don’t have to have a teary-eyed surrender again. That was pretty awful.
Thanks,
-Dan
I am a collie owner and would definitely not recommend a collie to apartment owners. My collie is not consistently active indoors, but is very excitable and would probably knock things over in a small place when she gets set on a game of fetch. But more importantly, she spends much of her days lying in the yard looking over her “territory.” It is her favorite activity, and has been all her life – very instinctual. I would not ever want to deprive her of that.
Oh, just to add to my collie comment, she is now 10 years old and had that “puppy” excitability probably about through age 8, so I’m not just talking about a young dog.
There is some beautiful photography on this page. I have been searching for the right dog for me and by far this website has the best photos of dogs I have seen of any dog-related page.
I agree with an earlier comment, that it is unclear what “Will do OK with sufficient exercise” really means. A lot of humans do OK with sufficient exercise too – but that could mean a 1 mile walk for 1 person or a 10 mile jog for another! If you can provide more specifics, we nearly-dog-parents could have a better idea what we are committing to.
Thanks for this page! In general a really great job!!
There is a reason white boxers are not recongnized by the AKC. The genes that cause solid white color in boxers can also cause deafness,similar to what happens with dalmations.
not a labrador!! They are simply the best but DO shed all year long…
@ Dan. You could’ve left your dog at a doggy daycare when at work. Some dogs with high energy (Rotts are not high energy but we must consider so since it is mix), especially big dogs need a vast amount of exercise, which means more than 30 min walks. Not only that but they need mental simulation as well. You should go get the dog back and try jogging or allowing the dog to run alongside you while you ride your bike or go to a desert road and allow the dog to run alongside your car. Mental simulation would be giving its toys with holes inside of them forcing them try and get the treats out. Agility on the weekends. You can do it if you want. The Key to any dog is to figure out exciting ways to burn that energy they have in order to satisfy them.
How about a puggle?
I think it’s mean and selfish to leave a dog alone in an apartment all day while you’re at work. Wait until you have a yard to get a dog, and don’t get an animal if you can’t take care of him. AN APARTMENT IS NO PLACE FOR A DOG!
@ Jessica. Stop that over-sensitive “dogs are human” crap. Give dogs credit to being independent. They’re not babies. Dogs like greyhounds, as long as they get their time to run and play, will do nothing but LAY AROUND THE HOUSE. I know plenty of people with dogs of all sizes who leave them at home with NO problem. They have full time jobs and everything. Most dogs do very well alone especially if they have a companion dog with them. Not only that, dogs are like children – just like children play video games for hours on end, there are dog toys that you can put treats in and hide them that will occupy their minds – and everything will be fine. It’s not on the list but Great Danes are great for apartments. Mastiffs are too, because they are low energy dogs. Chow Chows as well. As long as the owner provide time and affection, the dogs will be fine.
Getting a yard and leaving them out in the yard doesn’t help either. They can always jump over the fence. No fence, then leash or not? You have to worry about excessive heat. About other unwanted dogs intruding on your yard. Shade. The essential idea is leaving the dog alone, but a yard will doesn’t help much. There are pros and cons to both the apartment and yard.
@Jessica. I agree with Sasha. Leaving a dog outside for hours may be more harmful than leaving them in an apartment. I think its MEAN and SELFISH to leave the dog outside as you recommended, especially in climates where even people can stand it.
Lets say your gone for a while and leave your dog outside, chained to a fence (that seems harsh enough). What if it decides to rain? Snow? Become too sunny? Become too cold? Now you have to worry about the dog getting sick and more vet bills. Dogs also have skin sensitivities. So what are you going to do when the dog overheats? Oh that’s right, how would you know? You don’t see the dog, its always in the yard. People work so they can afford to pamper their dogs. Not all dogs have high levels of energy and the desire to roam around in the yard. Also yards may become boring to them. That’s why it is important to not only let the dog outside, but to take him/her for a walk, play with the dog(can be done inside or out).
Curious as to why shelties (shetland sheepdogs) are marked as unsafe with children? They are on the top 10 list of best dogs for kids due to their happy nature, playfulness, and gentleness.
The ONLY issue I could possibly see is that they nip at the heels of things to ‘herd’ them, but mine have never nipped the heels of any child and I have 3, a puppy, a 10 year old and a 7 year old. They all 3 LOVE ALL children.
Definately true about being weary of strangers, but if properly socialized that’s not an issue. I have yet to meet an aggressive sheltie, and I worked at a vet for 2 years, and a pet store for 1 year.
I might also add that the picture is of an aussie, hence the docked tail and muzzle that is not like a collie (which is much of the shelties blood)
Although weimareiners are awesome pets, they are NOT apartment dogs. Guys WORST IDEA EVER would be to adopt a Weim for an apartment setting. They are EXTREMELY high energy, EXTREMELY intelligent, and WILL find ways to entertain themselves (not positive many times) and do not do well being crated more than the time it takes for you to work your full-time job. They need MUCH exercise, if you aren’t going to jog the dog at least 1 mile a dog, then you’re likely playing with fire. The comments above are mine about shelties, my family is part of the local weim rescue, they wanted to make sure this was well-known that weims are probably the WORST dog for apartment life. Wait till you CAN get a yard, or pay somebody VERY FIT to take care of the dog while your away, and risk issues even still. They need room to roam.
Also similar to say about australian shepherds, especially as far as intelligence goes. Border collies too to an extent. Just make sure they’re walked, and your apartment is “dog proofed” Nothing wrong with crating while your gone, unless it’s a weim, he’ll probably rip his teeth out trying to get out.
My husband and I are considering a boxer dog. We have a two bedroom apartment and have a small child.(we want to buy a house within a year or two) We do not have a yard to let the dog roam but I know my husband will take the dog out and run it as he goes running alot. Do you recommend a boxer for an apartment and how much is “sufficient exercise”. Thank you!
We live in a 2 BR apt with our 7 yr old female Boxer for a year now. We formally lived in a house but we retired to a condo. She is great and has had no problems. She’s a wonderful apt dog companion. We highly recommend a Boxer for house or apt living! Great dogs….
I am looking to get an apartment, i have to VERY VERY loving dobermans, but NO one will take me because of them, its sad because they are very nice and loving, but most people think they are killers. my family raised dobermans and bred them…. none of them were agressive….. its how you raise them…
Hi Jon. I used to have a doberman. He was the biggest, sweetest baby ever! When I went out looking for a place I had the same problem. They consider a dobe just like a pitbull, “Dangerous” I agree 110% it is all on how you raise them. At the time I got my fawn doberman i had to lie and say he was a weimeraner (he was just a puppy and at that time you couldnt tell lol) I ended up staying where I was b/c there is no way i’d leave my dog…b/c they are my kids!! He has since passed away and I now have a great dane. It’s a little bit easier to try to find a place to stay, but not much! Good luck on your search I wish you the best!!!
I’ve got a German Shepherd/Lab Cross living with me in a one bedroom apartment. She does great. She’s still a pup but keep in mind that sufficient exercise required is considerable. I take her out for a quick walk (10-15mins) in the morning and at lunch (I live walking distance to work). After work I take her for a 30min-1 hour walk and the same in the evening before bed. So all in all I’d say she gets anywhere from 1 and half hours to 2 and a half hours of time outside. When at home with me I also play with fetch with her encouraging her to run around. When I’m not home she’s in her crate. On weekends I take her out with family/friends or other dogs, she has doggie play dates, and usually gets much more exercise then.
I am planning on purchasing a dog for my 900 square foot 2 bedroom apartment for my son and I (he is 16 months old) I am outside often with him, taking him to the park and such but I dont know what type of dog to get. I do work full time so crate training would be a must, and would love an animal great with a little one. Mainly looking for a breed thats not really active indoors and easy to train, good around children, and not extremely loud (although I realize that mainly depends on how you train it) I would prefer a larger breed but would make an exception on a chihuahua or a pug…. Any helpful tips would be appreciated. Thanks so much.
I am surprised you did not list the Greyhound. I live in a townhouse and have had 2 Greys. They are real couch potatoes and love people. The Greyhound always gets overlooked because most people think it’s just bred for racing. That’s not true. It is an excellent, gentle and loving animal.
Hello,
I currently live in the city in a spacious 2 bedroom apartment with my boyfriend and our year old male cat. We are looking for a puppy and have highly considered a miniature yorkshire terrier (I am partial to them, we have three males in my family) and a teacup chihuahua (my boyfriend is in favor of the chi’s, his brother has owned a wonderful rescued female for 10 years now). I have experienced first-hand how dependent a yorkie can be, and also their sometimes snippy tempers. Considering the idea of children in 5 years or so I really want to make the best decision for us. Any advice at all would be appreciated! Thank you!
The Shortheard German Poiner picture is just beautiful! It’s also my dream dog, but alas I live in an apartment in Shanghai and 1. can’t find this bread, and 2. am not around at home enough to give it the attention it needs. I was thinking of getting an italian greyhound instead (perfect suit for me) though again, no one has anything like that here.
Now I’m looking at the Schnauzer, though it’s a bit small for me (and I prefer the more ‘dignified’ looking breads like great danes etc….). How do people rate larger versions of the Schnauzer as apartment dogs?
this is a comment on labador retrievers.yes its true labs do shed year round.but if you vacume n sweep regulary,shedding shouldnt be a problem.also,weekly baths and brushing help on the shedding problem.i own a 8 year old mixed lab/shar pai.she lives in a apartment.she does well with walks.labs dont need a big yard just walks n games of fetch make this breed happy.
also labs are very loyal n protective around kids.well mine is anyway.i raised her from 5 weeks of age.she,s mixed with shar pai.she,s a good gaurd dog.weighs 90 pounds.even if i had a yard,she wouldnt stay in it.lol.she prefers to stay inside.
Hi there. I have been approved to adopt from two different rescue groups. One dog is a female chihuahua/italian greyhound mix and the other is a rat terrier. My question is which one would do best in an apartment and would need just a daily walk as exercise? Thanks!
Hi everyone. I was just wondering if anyone could recommend a dog for me. I just moved into a 2 bedroom apartment. Right now I have an Alaskan Malamute who is 12, but she won’t be around for much longer :(
I would like to start considering other dogs. The only issue is that I work 8 hrs shifts so it would have to be okay with being alone for a bit. I have a cat who is really friendly with other animals so it wouldn’t be completely alone. Right now I am considering a greyhound because I need a dog who would be relaxed and calm. The only issue I have with a greyhound is that you apparently can never let them off of a leash.
I definitely do NOT want a small or yappy dog. If anyone has any suggestions, please let me know :)
I’ll also add that I live near a rail trail, and a huge park, plus I jog usually everyday so getting exercise is not a problem.
Thanks in advance.
I am looking and thing about getting a dog, but I have an apartment, and I want a dog that is easy to train, and is low maintance, and low active dog. I mean a dog that yes I can take for walks, and play with. Also one that likes the indoors. And is happy being inside.
I am university student and I live in a small apartment. I am looking to adopt a dog that is suitable to my life style. I tend to stay away from home lot of the times 8+hrs. I totally don’t mind taking my dog out for a daily run or walk. I tend to not like big hair dogs like Yorkshire Terrier and prefer a skin type more like that of a beagle. I was thinking of adopting a pug/puggle but I am not sure how good of an apt dog they are and if they could do okay with me staying away that long. Any suggestions?
I was surprised that Shiba Inus did not make the list. They’re a small dog – 15 to 25 lbs – very fastidious, and not real barkers. In fact they say that if your Shiba is barking, go see what’s wrong. They can be high energy, both inside and out, but since they really must be kept on a leash or contained when outside, so as long as they have a small fenced area and/or are walked regularly, they should be fine. They are very cat-like in their attitude, so while they are thrilled to see you when you come home, they certainly haven’t been pining for you all day. Because of how fanatically clean they are (did I mention cat-like?) they’re easier to housebreak than many breeds. The only real downside to a Shiba is the fact that they ‘blow’ their thick undercoat twice a year and shed constantly, but if you brush them daily that can at least be minimized.. and it’s one ‘con’ in a whole list of ‘pro’s.
Weimaraners would do terribly in an apartment.They are one of the most energetic breeds there are, and are very high maintenence. That said, if you have acerage they are an excellenet companion, but only if they are able to run frequently. They would go crazy in a small space. People have already said this, but I have them as pets and know for a fact that they would be the worst apartment dogs.
I live in a small appartment …i have no backyards but i tend to give my dog its time and i will do what it takes to train him well…..i considered getting a golden retriever but people tell me that it would knock everything in the house with its tail and its size is also a problem…..but as i said i will walk him first thing in the morning and at night and i ‘am not the king that is always outside i like staying in home so what is your recommendations please i really need an answer..because i’am considering gettin it soon and please keep in mind that i live in a small appartment
omg the pugs are so cute i wont 1 so bad
I live in an apartment and have a Papillion. She’s a great small dog for apartment living. She stays in her crate when I am at work. At times when I have been delayed and have had someone else tend to her (walk her and feed her) she often returns to her crate until I am home (so it’s obvious she doesn’t mind it). She has a joyous temperment, is very smart, is not “barky” like many small dogs (although she does bark as an alert when a strange person or dog is around). Although considered a small breed the Papillion is not fragile by any means. They are one of the small breeds that is very good at agility. When visiting with her doggie friends in the dog park she loves to play chase and “catch me if you can” (very few can!) She loves to take walks and could play fetch endlessly, but when I prefer resting to activity, she is completely content to curl up on my lap or sit next to me (although she does usually try to stick her head under my hand to get me to pet her!). I would definitely add Papillions to your list of great apartment dogs. They are intelligent, loving and highly adaptable companion dogs.
I have to disagree about corgis not being good around children. Pembroke Welsh Corgis are excellent dogs around children. They are very tolerant and have been known to keep little children out of trouble. They are very smart easy to train dogs!
I want to adopt a dog but I keep running into the problem of dogs being bad around cats. I already have two cats and I want a dog that would be good with them if left home alone for a couple hours at a time. The cats do not mind dogs, they mostly just do their own thing. But, does anyone have any suggestion as to what dog breeds would be best to consider for their good mannerism around cats?
Hi… I have a German Shepherd and I was just giving pointers. German Shepherds are very active, but very well tempered
Hello, I am moving into an 800 square foot apartment in September and my boyfriend wants to buy a German Shepherd. I have done my research on the breed and everything and have always been fond of them. However, I was wondering if I could get someone’s personal intake on having a German Shepherd in that amount of space. I understand the amount of exercise and dedication. I will be attending school and work full time but I was hoping to get some personal feedback. If you could just email me at lnblake17@yahoo.com that would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much!
Have a safe and happy 4th!!!
I have a little sister that is 2 years old. I am 12 Years old.
There are 2 adult in the family. We live in an apartment and would like
a small dog, maybe a toy sized dog. We are wondering what Breed to get. Please give us a suggestion.
I would like to know if a Border Terrier would be ok for my ground floor 2 bedroom apartment.
i think the list overlooked the barking issue. Westie, Cairn Terrier and Yorkshire Terrier tend to bark excessively which is one of the major cause of complaints from neighbor.
I will be moving into a new apartment soon, and I would like to get a dog. I love dogs, and I was happy to see some of my favorites on your list! Most likely I will get a pug, they are so adorable! Thanks for this list!
First off, I love the picture you found of a basset hound!
I live in a row house, which is small enough to be considered apartment living, as there’s no back yard and only a bit of concrete courtyard between the houses, and a sally port. It’s quite a good environment for a basset hound, and I’d highly recommend the breed. While he loves small children and is very gentle, he does get excited around them because it’s a novelty, so sometimes he can make little kids nervous who haven’t been around dogs much. But he just wants to play and lick their faces. He is extremely patient with tugging and pulling and poking. I play with his ears all the time, and even sometimes try and tie a gentle knot on the top of his head, and he doesn’t so much as bat an eyelash.
A couple things to consider, though: The basset is not really a small breed. They’re medium to large sized dogs that happen to be on short legs. They take up some considerable space, so training them not to get on the furniture is a good idea. I have not done this, and find myself often getting shoved to the edge of the bed or struggling for a space on the couch. Getting them a bolster dog bed is a wonderful idea; because of their length, they need the back support of a bolster, and will automatically go to it.
Legs: Bassets are prone to leg problems. If you have steep stairs, limit their activity up and down them, especially down. Keeping them at the proper weight helps keep their legs healthy, so never ever feed them people food, and keep their treats within reason. I have one of those rolling treat balls, which keeps him busy for hours (and out of my things), but I fill it with carrots, usually. They are also prone to sensitive stomachs, which is also a reason to limit their diet within reason. If you limit it too much, the dog will find trouble, which leads me to…
THE NOSE: This is the reason bassets get a bad intelligence rap. Believe me, they are very, very smart dogs. But they’re stubborn as stubborn can be, because of their nose. They smell something, they want to know what it is, and they want to know now, and then they want to know if it can fit into their mouths. Paying attention to your basset, playing with him/her, making sure they have something to occupy them (stuffing toys into an old laundry bag works wonders, they like to hunt), and making sure that you give them exercise (they don’t require much, but what they require, they need to get – I only take mine on two ten to fifteen minute walks a day, because of his leg problems, but he *needs* those). And the nose requires proper training at meal times. They can launch the upper half of their body to astonishing heights, and they don’t chew so much as inhale whatever’s on your plate. A spray bottle and a chew for the dog at meal times tends to work.
They’re just fine on concrete, but they do love grass and especially sand – though they’re not good swimmers and don’t particularly enjoy being very wet. Be careful when it’s cold and wet or icy, their belly can drag into it, even when they’re fit. Make sure they get toweled off.
Bassets, once house trained (they do well with proper crate training), can be left to their own devices while at work or out, they’ll often just curl up and happily sleep. But like any dog, they’re happiest when everyone’s home, and they’ll always want to be in the same room as you.
Hey there,some of these dogs arent so good for apartments in my point of view, like most of the smaller dogs. I am saying this because noise is one of the main reasons why neighbours submit complaints when you live in a apartment.Dogs like yorkies, westies,Chihuahuas, Malteses,Pekingeses,Lhasa Apsoses,Miniature Pinschers,Shih-Tzu,Pomeranians, and more tend to have a high-pitched demanding bark that gets annoying after a while. Im definetley not saying there not good pets, but make sure to consider other aspects of the personality of a small dog not just the adorable appearance.Other than that, this list is great, it sure helped me in choosing my perfect pet, thanks.
hey, im a 21 year old college student who just moved into a spacious 1 bedroom apartment. i have wanted a pug for years, but after doing some research, have come across horror stories of how many health problems they have. i would hate to have a beautiful dog that has to go to the vet 8 times a year and i certainly do not have the finances to support that many vet visits.
my parents have a boston terrier, but he is extremely high energy and requires constant attention.
i would like to have a toy/small breed.
do you have any suggestions?
Those pointing out the barking problem are right. Why do so many people seem to think dogs and apartment life are so compatible? The building I live in sounds like a kennel whenever someone has the gall to close a door or otherwise make a sound that upsets the menagerie of canines (and one is a large black lab that’s definitely over the building’s 35-pound dog limit). The other big issue with me is that dogs really need a yard to run in and not have to depend on a leashed walk three times a day (that alone is good enough reason to me not to have a dog in an apartment). I don’t understand this “I’ve got to have a dog” thing. It seems to me that if you’ve got to have a dog, you’ll give up the apartment idea.
great website, really helpful info and with great pics!
I would love to have a dog.
My family has been wanting to get a dog
for several years now, and i have been doing
some research. we would love to have a small to medium
apartment dog. i have a little sister that is 2 yrs of age,
and she is never rough and never too loud. please suggest a dog breed for us.
also, there will always be a person at home. so please help us.
oh and btw: we live in a 2 bedroom 2 bath ground floor apartment with a slightly medium sized patio.
(:
Hello,
I live in a small to medium apartment. My dad and I have been going to the SPCA and looking at dogs every weekend. I found a dog last weekend that I absolutely fell in love with. It’s name was Ace and he was the sweetest dog I have ever seen, but he was a Pit Bull Terrior. I don’t think I saw that breed listed on here. I would just like to know if those kind of dogs would do well in an apt. I would like to hear what you have to say.
Thank You.
I am 56 and live alone, I don’t drive and have epilepsy. I am very lonely and would like to have a dog for my medimum size 1 bedroom apartment. What is suggested?
@Savannah, I think maybe it’s not on the list because not all apartments accept this type of breed. Some have weight restrictions and others do not accept so-called aggressive breeds. It all depends on your apartment’s policies. When searching for an apartment, most apartment search sites will show you the apartment’s pet policies, but you should ALWAYS ask your apartment landlord/manager what their policy is before adopting a dog. Also, larger dogs like this require more training and they need regular exercise, so you need to be prepared.
Some of the comments here are negative. Not everyone wants to own some grass, nor do ALL dogs need a yard. They do need exercise but in my apartment there is a lovely green area so my dog has a backyard where she is ALWAYS supervised, gets to go for walks and frequent trips to the dog park. She has it better then many dogs in the neighborhood who are tied up, in a kennel or ignored for most of the day.
When looking for a dog we found the perfect dog for us. Boston terrier’s are the best “small” dog I have ever come across. We have a mastiff, many chihuahua and jack russels who live in our building. The mastiff does well, the chihuahua’s don’t need much exercise but are noisy–they bark at everything and nothing and the JRT seems to need a lot of exercise (he goes for long walks 2X daily). Bostons have a short smooth coat (just bath occasionaly). They rarely bark. They are great with elderly, children and just about anyone they come in contact with. They have naturally short tails and upright ears (so no animal cruelty here). They are smart, easy to house break and loyal. They love nothing better then to lay on your lap and be your best friend. Our dog goes on daily walks but if the weather is bad or I don’t feel well she is okay without her walk. This is seriously the best kept secret in the dog world and we will never be without a boston. My husband and I have always had big dogs but bostons are big dogs trapped in little dog bodies in every way.
this list show me that i cannot have a large dog in a apartament if it’s not trained . i will buy a labrador or a husky , they will live at my grandfather .
Savannah,
You have either chosen another dog at this point or adopted Ace. Sometimes I think that living in an apartment forces people to actually pay attention to their dogs. if the dog gets overly hyper the owners have to take them out and have to play with them. they don’t have the option of just putting them in the back yard because they don’t feel like dealing with them.
As For your question. My husband and I adopted a Pointer mix about 2-3 months ago she is 8-9 months old now. She was very sick we found after we got her. now that she is better and filled out you can definatly see the Pitbull in her. First of all pitbulls are only as agressive as their owner allows them. Teach them that even play biting is not allowed that will head off any accidents. Clover is a very active puppy we can throw her toys across the apartment for a couple of hours before she is done. Toys are a must. Puppies will eat whatever you tell them they can or forget to tell them they can’t. I have found personally that and hour to 1- 1 1/2 hour walk once a day to once every other day can do wonders for Clover. A Crate is your best friend and a dogs, while some poepl my consider it cruel, crates turn into a dogs safezone. when you are not home or when they know they are introuble they get a sense of security from it. When we decided to turn the lights off in the house for bed. Clover walkes straight into her cage and goes to sleep. We only close the door so we wont happen to find any suprises in the morning.
Honestly getting a dog is not really a question of space but the dogs energy level and the owners ability to deal with that. With the proper amount of excercise most dogs will be more than happy to lounge around with its humans. Also know that a dogs individual personality also plays a role. My parents have female border collie who would rather be inside with or without people, and a Male Border Collie Mix who doesn’t mind being inside but would rather be outside for most of the day just laying in the grass.
i’m 15 years old .. i need to find a way to convince my parents to buy me a dog!!..
i love animals. can you suggest any methods?
ps…. my mom is scared of dogs .. except for labrador retrievers …and she would not like hair in the house to sweep either!!
help me! :(
Aditi,
I convinced my parents to let me keep a cat we found on the terms that once I moved out I would take the cat with me. Great idea, but remember that a dog or cat will live at least 10 years. Ask yourself where you are going to be when you graduate highschool. If you move out and get and apartment the pet fees can be very high. If you are planning on college then you may be staying in the dorms and they wont allow pets. My Cat story ends with the fact that I finally have an apartment that allows pets but my hubby is allergic to cats, and the dog I said I would try to take is 50 pounds and to big for an apartment. I have picked up my smaller dog clover. I am all for getting pets and I hate to tell you to think of the future because thinking in the now is a benefit of being young and living with the parents :), but ask yourself if you are willing to risk leaving your baby behind with your parents who don’t want it if you can’t take him/her with you. but best of luck to you. I would recommend adopting from the local pound if you do. it saves a dogs life. you can pick up a dog around 6 months old. they look and act like large puppies and the house training period and chewing is alot shorter at that point. But A dog does take alot of work, so you may need to prove through regular chores that you are resposible and reliable enough to take care of the dog every day without being asked. goodluck.
if any1 is looking for a kind, gentle, quiet and loving dog that is great with kids then a greyhound is 4 you. they are sooo lazy and only need 2 X 20min walks a day. i’ve had 2 so far, 1 was always a pet, the other was an ex-racer. both have been fantastic with the cats and have never been aggressive in any way. lurchers are also fantastic dogs (but you have to be careful what they are crossed with).
ex-racers are in desperate need of homes so please consider these fantastic dogs. :)
This doesn’t make sense to me. You have a list of large dogs good for apartments then say “this dog is not recommended for apartment life”?
@Brittany – Yes, some dogs do not do well in apartments because their owners do not have the time to give them proper exercise outdoors. These dogs are high energy and need an owner who can spend time with them playing games and exercising. I have a friend with an Australian Shepherd and she lives in an apartment. The dog does well because she takes him on daily runs with her. Plus she works from home, so she is there to let him out and take him for walks during the day when he gets restless. But, you’re right Brittany, this statement is contradictory. To be clear for this post, it should read “not recommended for apartment dwellers who spend a lot of time away from home or do not have a lot of free time to devote to their pet” rather than the general statement “not recommended for apartment life.”
im currently considering getting a Brittany. I live in a three bedroom apartment, with a balcony. I really want to get this dog, and I live right in front of the beach so the dog has a huge place where to run and exercise. Im willing to take the dog exercising multiple times a day but I wanted to know for sure if it would be ok to leave the dog in the balcony with his toys for say some hours after having had exercised him for a while and then taking him out again to exercise in the afternoon. Thanks!!!
As an ER worker, I have to strongly disagree that chows are safe around children. While I think chows can make great pets, I must also say that the 5 worst pet maulings to children (ages 8 and under) in 1 years in the ER was by chows. The attacks were generally severe enough to need immediate surgery for wound control and then later, reconstructive surgery. Most of these attacks centered on the neck and head. I really love dogs and children (having 2 of the first and 4 of the second). Because I love them both I would recommend against mixing chows or chow mixes with kids.
oops not 1 year, 10 years in an ER
Am I seeing things but does it seem that the names of some of the breeds are attached to the wrong picture?
It’s important to know that some apartments do have breed restrictions and Rotties, Akitas, and Huskies tend to be on the list of unaccepted breeds. It’s something to look into before getting your pup!
I agree with Barbara, Chows are NOT good with small children. If annoyed they WILL snap, and if annoyed often they will attack, even it’s owner.
Another thing that I noticed is that a Rott got a “no” for small children, but they are GREAT with kids. Loyal and protective if trained right, they will follow and protect the kid forever.
I think most breeds can thrive in an apartment depending on care. My husband and I have a Treeing Walker Coonhound and live in a large city in a medium sized apartment. We take him for runs in the morning and evening and have a dog walker who walks him for an hour or two during the day. When we adopted him we didn’t realize the horror stories people have of the breed, but he is a fantastic apartment dog – very calm inside, never barks, and entertains himself while we are work. We’ve even taken him around the world with us since our jobs place us internationally and he is just the best.
I stay in the state of Florida(Duval County)and as you know Pitt Bulls are not allowed in apartments.
That includes Boxers, German Shepherds, Dobermen Pinschers too and dogs that are know to be aggressive.Now the apartment manager told me to come to this site to find an apartment friendly dog and I see to my surprise these three dogs; lost in Flordia.
My husband and I (no children) are hoping to find a med-size dog well-suited to apartment life on the 2nd floor. We are gone long hours sometimes and need a breed that is just as happy alone as it is with others, is happy running around outside (we have a dog park right behind us), but, will lounge around inside, can wait awhile to be taken out to use the bathroom and does not bark, drool or tear things up. Also, we prefer one that has a low-maintenance coat and are not of the nervous-hyper type. I know this may be a lot to ask for, but, we are hoping that there may be one acceptable breed out there. Good-looking dog is a plus.
Barbara,
Sorry to hear about your bad experience with Chows in the ER. We will note that for people with children.
I live in a small house with a very small backyard,however there is a medium sized yard across the street from my house) and I was considering a Siberian Husky. I was wondering if their were any known mixes involving this breed that would bring down the activity level even a little bit. And also are Siberian Huskies okay if left alone for 5-6 hours when i am in school?
Hi, I want a beagle but I have few problems, one is I live in an apartment, second is that none of my neighbor has dogs, I know its weird but that is the true. However pets are allowed in our apartment complex. I was very close to buying a beagle puppy but my friend told me that beagle bark and howl a lot and it will creat problems with the neighbors. I work full time, but my wife is always at home. Will have a beagle in apartment will create problems? I am willing to give the dog the required exercise. plz help
thanks
Hi, I live in apartment and wanted to buy a beagle but my friend told me that beagle bark a lot and will create problems for your neighbor. I really want a beagle and willing to provide regular exercise required for beagle like daily walks.
Please help…..
I read about Shiba Inu that these dogs adjust well with any kind of environment its owner provides so does this mean they could be good for apartments too?
I am posting this again, I need help decide if I can keep beagle in an apartment as I heard they bark a lot and will create problems with the neighbors is that true? and one more thing how will be Shiba Inu in hot climates and can they live in an apartment?
Hi I am replying to the post about the rotties…My first rottie was like a protective twin brother to me(had the same exact birthday as me) and would protect me to the ends of his means…I now rasie rotties and have sold them to people within appartments and have never gotten a complaint back from an owner on how the dog even as it grew larger caused a problem in the appartment… My sister took my 3 yr old 170 pound male into her apartment (He has NEVER been confined to a small space) she said that the whole month he was there he didnt break the first thing and was wonderful around her daughter…the whole rotties are not suitable around young children is completely false…just because they are larger dogs do not mean that they are clumsy and/or aggressive. it is all with trainning even the smallest dog can be aggressive. I do agree with them needing extra exercise they are extremely smart and tend to find ways to entertain themselves…
Mister editor… No.
Labradors ARE NOT apartment dogs. Neither are rottweilers, weimaraners, german shepherds, or about ten other of these breeds that you think would be suitable to live in an apartment. I don’t even know why you would think to include these big, high-maintenance dogs on this “list,” unless for some reason you really want everyone’s dog to be miserable? Regardless, you are 100% wrong, please stop giving people bad advice.
I move frequently for work and would really love a dog for a compainion. I want a large dog for security and am currently looking at the Cane Corso, but havent seen the dog on any lists i have looked at as being either good or bad in apartments. From what i have found they have a fairly even temperment and tend to stay fairly quiet. however, the are a large dog and im not sure how well they will do in a one bedroom apartment. Any insights or suggestions on other dogs that may fit my needs?
My thoughts because I have owned the following:
Maltese/Poodle: Annoying but sweet. I hate the staining on the white coat. They do not age well. And are expensive to maintain. Their coats and health issues can be overwhelming. If maintained they are beautiful and pleasant. They love the company of family and friends. LOVE LOVE LOVE attention. If not maintained: they are a sorry sight.
Pitbull: One of my favorite. Loving, loyal but…like anything else ownership means everything. Sadly, good luck with finding a place in Florida that allows ownership. Private complexes can constitutionaly apparently discriminate on dog ownership. Sad.
Lhasa: I would not recommend a Lhasa pure or mix. These dogs bark incessantly and are very vocal. We love our LhaT but will never ever own another Lhasa. He has had horrible skin problems but has the most beautiful black hair. It is thick and simply beautiful. Sadly, he has spent the majority of his life licking and scratching. We have tried everything, food, medicine everything. Additionally, his eyes are bad now. We are heartbroken. Lastly, Julien is the alpha dog in the pack and has spent years being mean and grumpy. We love him and he is great when children have visited. He has tolerated them hugging and combing his beautiful hair. We supervise closely. He is 10 years old and has never snapped at strangers. However, he will snap and bite at us. He is temperamental. He barks/talks constantly.
A Shi-Poodle: My first and only pet store puppy. Came with a 10 year guarantee and he is absolutely beautiful. Beautiful personality. Would recommend. Was not easy to potty train.
Rhodesian Ridgeback/Boxer Mix: A beautiful dog with an extraordinary personality. I will live in an apartment with a Rhodesian however they truly need lots of room to roam and it is indeed cruel to subject a dog to this. Easy EASY EASY to potty train. She was potty trained in one day. Never poohed or urinated in the house. This dog is very very very patient and tolerant and humble. They do not exist in the world to make a lot of noise and be intrusive. Excellent with children and people. Reserved and not fussy. I love the Rhodesian breed and would have another if living in an apartment was not very simply cruel. The love outdoors and to roam and it is inhumane to prevent them from doing this. This dog is a phenomenal breed. Excellent with children. Suspicious of strangers.
Please note: Our Rhodesian was accused of biting a child that climbed the fence into our yard. I doubt it was her but the child claimed otherwise. So, it is possible if the Rhodesian’s property is violated it may bite. As it should. People should teach their children not to trespass on property. Do not go where you are uninvited. The child ran after our Rhodesian and attempted to place. This was a 9 year old boy who constantly roamed the neighborhood unsupervised.
Chihuahua: I like chihuahuas because of their size. However, however, their temperament can be exhausting. Had one that barked all the time because of lack of stimulation. She was rehomed to a stay at home mother (my ex’s mom). She loves the one on one attention and is treated like a queen. I think these dogs are one owner attachment type. It depends on socialization. They need constant attention. If you work a lot and dont have the time: dont bother.
Recommendations from observation from friends and strangers regarding temperament:
Pugs (choose a breeder wisely or it will cost you in about three years). Sad. Great hearty happy dogs. However, again choose very carefully if you simply MUST buy from a breeder. The ones dumped at the shelter are usually due to unforseeable costly health issues.
Boston Terrier: Read above
Labs: Read above
English bulldogs: (choose a breeder wisely or it will cost you in about three years). Sad. Great hearty happy dogs. However, again choose very carefully if you simply MUST buy from a breeder. The ones dumped at the shelter are usually due to unforseeable costly health issues.
Italian Greyhound: Sleek, smooth. Choose carefully. Some of the poorly socialized greyhounds have significant personality issues. Seriously.
AVOID:
Airdales: Over the years several people have frequented the dog park with this breed. The dogs were mean, abusive and generally of bad temperament. Bullies. These had to be the most aggressive breeds if POORLY OWNED. A very serious threat if allowed to do what it wants. I do not blame the dog: I blame the owner. This is a breed if not owned properly can be very very nasty.
Giant Schnauzer: Another breed I saw frequently poorly owned and allowed to be dominant. Very scary.
Forgot:
Greyhounds can be horribly hard to potty train. A friend of mine has owned a greyhound for 7 years. The dog is wonderful. Great apartment dog. Unfortunately, my friend often comes home to poop. Crating did not help, neither did a trainer. Yes, perhaps the dog has a medical issue but I doubt it. My friend is obsessed with the care and maintance of the dog. The dog simply is hard to train. Later, I was told by the friend the greyhound has a not so nice reputation for leaving urine and feces. Its hard to party train.
I have a female Chow Chow and she is a wonderful dog indoors. I live in a condominium with a patio and she can come and go as she pleases. The Chows are very quiet dogs that only alert you when there is something out of the ordinary. She never makes a mess and is very clean. Although she gets walked 3 times a day, I have been at work for over 12 hours and never has she made a “mistake” even on the patio.
Also as a guard she is very protective of the house and will guard it with her life, but is very gentle and playfull with the local kids. I also have a Manchester Terrier to keep her company but the Chow is a better suited dog for indoors. I have had other breeds as well but the Chow suits my lifestyle.
Just wanted to comment on Barbara and her experiences with chows. They are great usually one person dogs, my cousin was brought up in a household with a chowchow and she was a fantastic dog, you just have to be aware of the breed and its general characteristics, what it was bred for. You just have to make sure you know the breed and are prepared to properly socialize the dog with ALL types of people; old and young, dark and light, short and tall etc. We actually have an older dog who is quite nervous around strangers and can be quite intimidating, but we did take him to puppy classes, not soon enough I guess, he was a rescue so who knows where he got his fear of people from. Anyways, so even though he is quite scary, with the dog classes we are able to control him and he listens immediately to our commands but still remains weary.
I also wanted to add that ANY dog can live in an apartment, as long as you have the time and energy to keep up with each breeds individual requirements, but you should know for sure whether you can or not before you decide on which breed you bring into your home. My boyfriend and I recently, like 3 weeks ago brought home our first puppy together, she is a Lab, Aussie Shepherd cross. She is calmer like a Lab but a QUICK learner like and Aussie. She is already 11 weeks old and nearly housebroken, with the occasional accident. I would also strongly suggest Puppy training, preferably positive reinforcement training for all new puppies! This will ensure that your new family member will be well behaved so you can fully enjoy his/ her company.
My boyfriend and i just moved in to a 841 sqft apartment. I got us a lab/huskey/spaniel mix. He is A GREAT dog just full of energy. We work all day and felt that the puppy was not happy. Not to mention he was alittle too big for our living space and i feel he didnt get the attention through out the day he wanted. We ended up giving him to my parents who have a cockapoo and huge yard, he is extreamly happy there! My question is what is the best breed of dog to get that can be okay alone through the day?? That requires only two walks a day and i know will still be happy. My grandparents had a basset hound that i loved and i got excited to see the breed on the list. I just want a to have a dog any breed honestly that i know will be happy and fit into our lifestyle…any suggestions?? Thankyou!
Hi. I’ m looking for a small apartment dog, that doesent bark loudly, if u can recommend me a few..
I am single and currently live in a 2 bedroom condo with a pretty small yard/patio. Looking at getting a German Shepherd. However, I work 12 hour shifts. This means my dog would be alone for approx. 13-14 hours a day with my commute time. On the other hand, this only occurs 3 days a week. Would I be able to crate the dog while I am away at work? Is that too long to be in their crate? Is it a good idea to leave a Shepherd alone in a condo that long without being in a crate? I really love Shepherds just not sure if it is a good idea with my long shifts. Any suggestions?
hey, this is a great list, but i think you should mention the restrictions. Dobermans, german shepherds, pit bulls, and rottweilers are not allowed in many apartments/condos. other than that, good info, i have a golden retriever and pug, Chloe and Sweet Pea chronologically, and they are great in my condo. It is fine to have a golden in an apartment, after 3 walks and a romp she is mellow.
ps thx KB/FL for your info, it was helpful :P
All of these dog breeds are great! I adore Cairn Terriers and have always owned one! Mine have always been great with children.. Intelligent spunky little dogs, can be stubborn but a great family dog!! All dogs are different and have different personality’s but my experiences have been great with Cairns so far!
I have to agree about pugs. They are dear little dogs, that like anyone and everyone-kids, seniors, family’s, single people, dog parks, play groups, obedience; their motto is “multum in parvo”: big dog in a little body. But, yes, definitely ONLY get a pug from an established breeder that is honest about health issues found in their breeding. My pug will be 12 soon, and progressively, has had one thing after the other go wrong: the whole breathing brachycephalic thing, in the last year, treatment (emergency, routine, medications, procedure of tracheal wash) have cost close to $4000.00; dry eye requiring expensive cyclosporine every day for the rest of her life; loose kneecaps, impacted anal glands requiring the vet to express them on a regular basis, yeast infections out of no where in the face folds-she gets a red yeast randomly, even though I clean folds regularly with a proven medication, EAR INFECTIONS, others I know are suffering with allergy issues, a dog on the email pug owner grp I belong to also had a pug die of an encephalopathy. Also, to get her mouth into shape that would be useful for her, about when she was 7-8 months old, she had to have a very, very expensive dental procedure with quite a lot of teeth extracted, mostly baby teeth that never fell out; My pug has lived in a home, and in a couple different apartments, and she has done ok in the apartments, but she would easily prefer a home. She gets disturbed easily by noises outside, or hearing dogs down the hall barking, etc. so she was just more happy when she had her own space. I have loved my pug dearly, I had wanted her forever, I am glad I still have her in my life, but I cannot get another one due to the excessive medical bills that have happened. Oh, and pugs are very, very,VERY prone to being too overweight, which is hard to fix in a pug, because of their little tolerance for exercise, and being a very treat motivated dog (with mine, she gets a couple Charlie Bears twice daily after she has gotten her eye medication, and she gets 2 baby carrots half way through the day.) She is already on the bare minimum amount of kibble, she would be missing enough nutrition if I cut back on the kibble anymore.
Also, just had to say, unrelated to the pug: I have not had good experience with seeing either dachschunds or maltese as apartment dogs. Dachsies are next to impossible to potty train, and the ones I have known can be quite ferocious and defensive against their owner-like this is MY owner, get away now before I tear you head off. And, the maltese is a barker, and one of the two in my apartment building, has bitten someone, the dog was allowed to stay, but it is now required to wear a muzzle when outside her apartment. The other maltese is very poorly socialized, and it will regularly go up to other people in the common areas, and also start barking and barking, at a couple points when this dog has approached me (my dog wasn’t with me) this little dog barks and barks, and also bites on my pantlegs and shakes it around, and the owner never tries to control her.
Also, I just have to comment that the picture you have up and claim it to be a Chesapeake Bay Retriever, there is no way that dog is a CBR. They look much different, at least if that one thinks they truly are a chessie, they are very, very far from the breed standard.
Weimaraners are definitely not ok for an apartment. They are very energetic and need lots of room to run. I don’t know where the authors got their information but many of the breeds listed as suitable for apartment life are far from it. Look the breeds up on Wikipedia or other dog breed information sites to decide if a particular breed is good for your situation.
I have a Golden Retriever in my apartment, but the living room and balcony is too small for her to roam about. I heard my father and mother discussing about whether to return her to the pet shop. I want her to stay… The open air lobby downstairs is also large enough to bring her for walks, and my father also goes to exercise everyday…
i have an english springer spanial and can tell you they will die young is ever caged even for short periods of time. they need extensive excersise . 5 mile run at least three times a week .I do not mean on a leash ,I am talking high speed running forget the lead you wont keep up unless you are linford christy. They also shed extensively so you need to be a hover fanatic at least once a day if you are not house proud.On the up side they are extreamely loving gentle obedient intelegent and will fetch their own towel to put on your lap after they have jumped in the pond or in a muddy drain so you do not get covered in mud.they will also be very happy sleeping in your bed.and make a great lap dog after the 5 mile hike.they need early socializing or they will become very nervous of strangers or a change of enviroment
Thanks for the input!
I have a question for anyone who can answer it, and give me some good input. I might be moving to a bigger city, so i want a large dog like a great dane, and i have 1 4 pound chihuahua and a 15 pound dachshund and chihuahua mix, and i wanted to know, if the great dane would be likely to kill my smaller dogs, if you could give me some input that would be great!
how come havanese is not here. its getting very popular and one of the ideal dog for apartment. for example.. its 5th most popular dog in new york city. pls include.
cool names
Thank you so much for this list! I have been doing research on the Newfie for a while because it is the pet i really want to get, and i plan to live in NYC. I was also very pleased to see almost all of my favorite dogs on this list such as the sheltie, collie, Weimaraner, Great Dane, and the westie. Thank you so much for this list, i feel like I have so many more choices now!
Cicely,
I would get an older, well socialized Great Dane. You can find one from a breeder that way you can be sure the your new Great Dane puppy will get along. A puppy may be to rough for them. However, if you do decide to get a Great Dane puppy, I would recommend taking it to socialization classes and puppy classes. Great Danes are quite calm dogs, so they should be okay together, as long as you are willing to put in the time and the money.
I should also add, ANY dog will do well in an apartment, as long as you can put in the time. Dogs such as Springer Spaniels will require MUCH MORE time and exercise than a Great Dane. I have a Labrador cross living with me in an apartment, and she is doing well here. I play fetch with her 3 times daily in the park, but you should also note that EVERY dog will differ in personality. So I made sure to ask which puppy was the calmest of the litter and many other questions about her temperament before I brought her home.
My boyfriend and I live up in northern California where it snows quite a bit in the winter and gets very hot in the summer. We are looking into getting a puppy but are not really sure what to look for. Originally we were looking at bulldogs (both french and english) and also boxers but because of climate we’re not so sure anymore. We have a 6 month old kitten and he thinks he is a dog. He does not get along with cats and most of his best friends are dogs. We are both attending college so we are in classes monday through friday although only 2 days a week will the pup ever be alone and even those days we can come home for lunch.Because we are a few hours from home attending college we make the four hour drive home about twice a month and both parents live with dogs, cat, cows, horses chickens ex…so we need something good with other animals. Also we are renting a 2 bedroom, 2 story cabin that is on the small to medium size and has no yard but we are willing to take it for some lengthy walks givin the weather will allow it. If anyone can give any suggestions that would be awesome!
Thanks
Christi
Wow, what a comprehensive review of breeds suitable for apartment life. Great job.
I think that an important point to remember in deciding which breed to adopt is that breeds which have excessive exercise requirements and/or a lot of energy will be more difficult for most apartment dwellers to manage. Size is not always the most important determining factor here either. And don’t forget the mixed breeds. Some of them can make wonderful apartment dogs also.
Needless to say, anyone contemplating adopting a dog should make sure that they have the financial and physical resources to care for the dog. Sharing your life with a dog is quite rewarding but it also carries with it a great deal of responsibility.
hey, i need help. i have a golden retriever, which small dog would be a better companion for him?
schnauzer, bichon frise, or pug?
please reply
hello
i live in Egypt in a small apartment with my parents.
i was searching for a loving, friendly breed because my mother freaks out a little bit.I have school, so most of the time ill be out also study art so it has to be good around pencils and paper and wont eat them. i love golden retrievers but i am not so sure if i could take care of them, they love playing and i don’t really have so much time to do so. i would love a cute (not so small) dog that isn’t into activity something that somehow looks like a golden. any recommendations? i really need help
thnx :D
ow and im not so good with potty training!!
and thats the most thing that pisses my mother off..!!
what about pit bulls
Hello everyone,
I have a few questions to ask that i am hoping someone could give me some good advice on. First, I am a huge dog lover and I have always been. I would like to rescue a dog, but my problem is that i will be living in a two bedroom apartment with my boyfriend and I am a college student and I work part time. I need a dog that is low maintenance and can deal with being alone, but of course a fun loving dog. I was thinking of a english bull dog and I am not sure how well they will do? And if their is another dog breed that i should consider. Thank you!!
Zeina,
Maybe you should look into getting an older dog, around a year or older that way you can ask whether or not it is potty trained and usually they are much calmer.
If you are going to get a puppy, I would recommend the book, Monks of New Skeet. Also, potty training a puppy isn’t as difficult as one would think. What I did with my puppy is every time it went to the washroom inside I would gently scold “no” (NOT YELLING!) grab the puppy and immediately take her outside. If she didn’t go outside, I would take her back in, and repeat if she went in the house again. It can be quite frustrating, but my puppy is now 4 months and is fully house trained. Also, note that at about months, pups enter adolescence and begin to challenge you, if they begin going to the washroom inside again, you do exactly what you did when they were little, gently scold and take them outside.
Great Danes are great dogs, and usually quite calm and content just lazing around, but they do need the occasional walk. Or a saint bernard, also you can go to an animal rescue/ humane society and adopt a mixed breed, just ask about the dog/ puppies temperament.
don’t the Collie’s and Shetland Sheepdog look the same…………THEIR CUTE THOUGH!!
Hello everyone,
I have a few questions to ask that i am hoping someone could give me some good advice on. First, I am a huge dog lover and I have always been. I would like to rescue a dog, but my problem is that i will be living in a two bedroom apartment with my boyfriend. I am a college student and I work part time, so does he. I need a dog that is low maintenance and can deal with being alone, but of course a fun loving dog. I was thinking of a english bull dog and I am not sure how well they will do? And if their is another dog breed that i should consider. Thank you!!
What is a good dog for 1 bedroom apartment and can stay in the apartment for six hours?
OMG, i just totally fell in love with the Australian Shepherd, l mean Wow, I never seen a breed like that before.
Hey i decided to get a puppy/dog and i live in a huge apartment and want to know wat to get if u think u know which is good for me message me at you tube my user name is itsmemorphious
what is a good apartment dog and what is a dog safe around children all the time and what is a good guard dog
I am a college student with career aspirations of becoming an urban planner. I love Dalmatians and Standard sized doxins. What I need: is a dog that can go okay in any city in the country (climate wise) and does well in apartments(duh) What I want: is a dog that can keep up with me when I go for daily runs. The doxin seems more compatable for everything else, but the excise part. I feel like a Dalmatian can keep up with more when I run or go hiking, ect. I would be open to doing doggie daycare if either dog required it, but would that really be necessary if say I do hard core excising with the dog for 2 hrs a day with maybe 1 hour of just a walk or something. Thoughts?
i am supprised that people are not mentioning the pembroke corgi
i have had one for 5 years he is great in the appartment i take him out for 2 quick 10 min potty breaks durring the day and one good walk 30 min he is great with kids as he is sturdy u do not have to worry much that they will hurt them he does tend to let me know when people are out in the hall way by barking under his breath but it is easly controaled with a finger snap
hi i would like a dog but i have a guinea pig what dog breed is best for me i also want a small or medium do no large
how come the havanese is not listed here?? i have a havanese in a studio apt in nyc and he is well behaved and the perfect addition to the family!!!
Hi I’m Ariel and looking for good apatment dog thinking of a pug or scottish terrier maybe a pekingese or some big dog like a boxer maybe goldren retriever or mastiff or miniature schnauzer but friend and family said puggle there cute are mix between a chihuahua and a pug and some breeds a find in in local shelters aanthoer think other good apartment dog are maltese and shih tzu out all this breed i like pug I work to 5.00 o’clock and i daughter she turning 12 year march 2 but if do get pug i’m think of dog day care but my two dog two cats and we puggle to i hope to get dog very for daughter
Sorry i made mistake on my last comment my daughter want a dog she like pug and puggle also she likes cocker spaniel and maltese another is boxer or matiff but we hope to get two dog soon are this good dog to choose if you live apatment
rotweilers are large dogs not medium dogs and probably not good for a small apartment
Hi, I currently have a Siberian Husky and I am worried about moving into an apartment with her. No matter how I discipline her, lets just say she’s free spirited, and stubborn, and loves to chew my stuff as well as marking her territory in the same spot almost every day. how would you suggest to train her to be more suitable for the apartment life (including daily walks)? Much appreciated!
We are looking for a small dog, 5 to 10 pounds, Prefer a
Pomeraniam, or some similar breed, a lap dog. Our phone number is 949-388-8519.
We live in a condo. We do not live in an apartment. We own our own condo over looking Dana Point Harbor.
I have a Doberman pincher and a German shepherd these are awesome apartment dogs
I have a Great Dane in a house and there are days when I feel like I’m going crazy. They really can thrive in an apartment if you’re willing to take the time to let them exercise daily, but don’t get them because they’re cute. With any of the big dogs make sure you’re willing to train them. It’s harder to deal with a bad habit when the dog is counter high. I love mine to death, but she was a rescue with an abused past and that meant a lot of time on my behalf retraining her. My advice to anyone getting a dog is that you should save up the money to get training for you and your dog before you buy the dog. Petsmart offers classes and I’m sure you can find other places in your area. Even having been through the training with my two Golden Ret/Basset mixes (35 lb dogs that look like golden puppies permanently due to their size – the best dogs I’ve ever had) and knowing exactly what to do… I still took her in because she learned how to socialize and deal with distractions, while forcing me to set a specific time goal for my training.
Also, I’d like to add that I have a relative that has a Rottie in an apartment. Just like it says, they’ll do find with exercise. If you expect to let it out to go to the bathroom and then bring them back in you’re dog will do horribly. If you take the time to go running with them, take them to the park, etc. I’ve seen them very happy. You just have to know that you’ve got a big dog in your house and not ignore it, while making sure it’s trained properly. Also, with big dogs, if you try to play with them too much inside things will get broken. Just plan on spending a lot of time outside hanging out with your dog. If you’re lazy, get a cat.
Why are most dogs not recommended for apartments if this page is titled as such. it doesn’t make any sense.
Hey guys, names Brittany.
I am a college student at a University and I am moving into an apartment. I have a German Shepherd. She is very well behaved but she’s only a year, so she has some spunk in her, a lot actually! I know she would need constant walks and games of fetch, but idk If it would be a good idea to take her. She has separation anxiety and I will be gone most of the day. I could take her out in the am, lunch and when I get home at night. But i just don’t know if it is a good idea to take her with me. If anyone has any advice, It would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
I’m moving into a apartment soon and would like to move in a dog with me as well. My main concerns are 1) there will be an infant living there 2) i work 8-9 hr days 3-5 days a week.. Do you have a suggestion on a suitable dog for my situation? Thanks!
You can have any dog in an apartment (assuming your landlord allows it). However, there are certain breeds that are lower maintenance and will do better in an apartment.
Somebody mentioned the Vizsla. That is a good example of a dog that would not do as well in an apartment. Like a Greyhound, they run very fast. Unlike a Greyhound, they love to run a LOT and have a TON of energy. They also need a lot of contact with their handler. They don’t like to be left alone for long periods. Same goes for other pointing dogs, like Weimeraners or a German Shorhaired Pointers. I would strongly suggest against having any of those breeds in an apartment unless you are well acquainted with the breed and are very responsible. Be reasonable. If you haven’t had a dog before, don’t start with one that you aren’t equipped to handle.
If i was to get one of those dogs on the list which would be best for my child her own dog
i live in a flat i look after my sisters cavelier spaniel here she seems to like it and because i did a good job my mum is considering getting me a dog i was wondering out of the small dogs which would be mostly recommened (cute,playful,easily trained,affectionate) << along those kinda lines ? to give you a cleaer idea of the flat size we have 3 people including me living here 1medium bedroom 1bedroom/livingroom ,a big bathrooom and small kitchen and a rather long spacious hallway :)
I have some advice for Angelo. If you are bathing your dog everyday it is not good for their skin or fur. It can cause the dogs skin to become very dry and flake. I have a Doxin-Border Collie mix and the vet I take her to told me you should only bathe a dog once every 2 weeks. Bathing the dog everyday could be the cause of the dog shedding, the climate can also cause shedding to happen. The dog will shed fur in the summer because it is so warm they don’t need it and will gainm it back for winter. This is just a heads up don’t bathe your dog so much anymore.
Could anyone help me? I am a college student, so next year I will be living in an apartment (2 bed/2 bath). I really want to get a dog and have been doing a great deal of research, but still am pretty stumped about what dog to get. Buy a puppy or adopt a rescue? Male or female? Small or large? My absolute dream dog would be a Great Dane, and everyone I have talked to says that they can make good apartment dogs if exercised properly. I think their personality fits me just right, and I really want a sweet, affectionate companion dog. I also like the idea of a medium to extra large sized dog as I will feel a little safer living where I will. The only problem I am facing with the Great Dane is the high cost of keeping them up – I want to give the dog the best life possible, and I just want to make sure I can handle the financial responsibility that goes along with such a large breed. This being said, could anyone suggest a breed that, following what I have said, sounds good for me. I don’t mind walking a dog, but I can’t give it constant exercise, and won’t have a fenced in yard. I also prefer a dog that doesn’t bark incessantly – don’t want to anger the neighbors! I know this is a lot but…I really value advice! Thanks :)
I dont know why this would say shelties are not safe with small children…. in my family it has been the opposite. Our first sheltie was an angel with small children. We had him when i was little and he looked after me like a human would. He was amazing with my friend at the time who was deaf and mute. He was the most amazing dog. He knew American sign language and thats just the tip of the ice berg. The sheltie we have now is instinctively good with children. He had no training when this happened, but one day at petsmart a woman was with her two year old daughter and baby. The two year old saw my dog and ran up to him. My dog, Max, sat down and let her pet him. He even licked the kids face. The baby looked so happy and petted Max for a while. He sat perfectly and licked her too. He was only a 13 weeks or so old. So u tell me are shelties not good with small children?
What about Papillions for apartment size dog. Would they be a considerate breed for apartment life?
Why do MOST of the dogs in the large catagory say “not reccomended for apartment.” i thought this was supposed to be a list of apartment dogs. Why would you include so many dogs that are not good for an apartment on a list like this
I think weimaraners are more suitable to live in a house, and not an apartment. They are generally as you said energetic dogs and should probably live in a house with a lot of space and a yard. But why put them on the list? And by the way I used to have a weimaraner and he was pretty hyper indoors so he had to move from my apartment and to a new home in the country.
My parents have Great Pyrs, and in my opinion they should not even be on this list. No, no, NO. They are enormous – they take up more space than a Great Dane, because of all that fur and presence – they bark at whatever they see or smell (and they have a *phenomenal* bark – believe me when I say your entire building *will* hear it, and so will the buildings next door!), and they SHED – the summer coat-blowing is an experience never to be forgotten. Oh, and they LOVE to roam – they’ll want to claim the entire *five mile radius* around your apartment. They need a BIG fenced yard, tons of grooming, and tons of training (because they already know what their job is, thank you, now hush because you are a silly sheep who needs to be protected for your own good). Ours are great with cats, kids, and whatever you raise them with (including, I’m told, chickens!), but they are one of the worst dogs I can think of for apartment life!
I wonder, though, where greyhounds are on this list? They’re “small big dogs” – meaning they’re all legs! – they’re very sedate and low-energy, they hardly ever bark, they’re wonderful with other dogs (you can even get them in cat-safe and small-dog-safe flavors), and as long as you find a fenced area to let them run around in a couple times a week and give them their daily walks, they’re fine on exercise without a yard. Retired racing greyhounds even come pre-crate-trained! The only thing is that you can never ever *ever* let them off-leash on pain of death (theirs), but we can’t have everything. They’re also kind of quirky, and you have to be careful to make sure they don’t get separation anxiety, because retired racers aren’t used to being alone, but they’re also like potato chips (can’t have just one) so that might solve itself. Plus, you’re doing a good deed along with getting a great dog!
Excuse me, Rottweilers not safe around small children? I have a four year old Rotti who lived with a two year old, who is a trained Pet Therapy dog and would go into interviews with children at the Child Protection Center, and who I take to work with me (I’m a nanny) where the oldest child is five and the youngest child is 7 months- she loves them all. She lets my two year old niece jump on her (while she is sleeping) and she doesn’t move a muscle. She has a better personality than the chihuahuas and Lhasa Apsos that I have owned in the past, both of which bit me when I was a child.
That is an extremely ignorant comment to make.
Our whole family wants a dog, and we liv in the city. My husband wants a big ‘manly’ dog(bulldog), while i want a small maltese/cockapoo sized dog, he tends to want dogs that shed. Is shedding hard when in apartments?
Can I convince my husband towards the smaller dogs? If so, HOW!?
Is a labrador retriever a good dog for a 2 bedroom apartment?
Is it easy to train?
Is it a barking dog?
Can it be at home for at least 10 hours alone at home?
Do they catch quickly the poty traning?
from 1-10 what do you give this dog?
I live in an apartment and would love a medium to large breed. my favorites are german shepards or rottweilers. i grew up with labs and love them but think they would be way to hyper for an apartment. any thoughts on the other two breeds in comparison? and any recomendations for me?
Hey its great you have set up the site to hopefully give an insight into breeds and dogs you have an idea of. I have had dogs through mostly all my life. I now have my own 2 bedroom house. Up and downstairs. I have a good yard out front . My back yard is the bigger of the gardens which could easily fit a kennel with a run and still leave the dog space to run 25 metres around and back. I’ve been thinking of getting a dog for ages it feels like. I am a athletic person and plan to walk the dog atleast twice a day. Could anyone give me some tips or hints on a dog that would be best suited to me as i have a few in mind but cant select. Thanks :D
I cant decide between a dalmation or a doberman?? help??
Hi,
I live in a new large 3 storey town house, we have an average size garden, but me and gf bioth have mid week jobs so possible 3 days he will be alone for 7 hours or so (thinking of getting a dog flap though! ), were very active ( always going running and long walks in the country side etc) I would love to get a doberman, do you think that we fit the critera?
Dalmations are portrayed as this wag the tail friendly dog, They are far from it.
These dogs are down right nasty, I know a person who has 12 of them, These dogs where breed to guard. They are pron to blindness, and deafness, And this person does have some that are blind and deaf. Dobermans? Well they are guard dogs too, not so much a family pet. They need hard training, Now Labradors? Apartment dogs, well some suggest NO, they need a yard. I guess If you took the dog to a dog park, where he/she could run around yes, They love water, Left alone they will get in trouble. I had one, I loved her, but living in an apartment, well I have to take that into consideration, Those dogs need room to run.
Before anyone gets a dog, Please do your homework, certain breeds one can lose there homeowners insurance having, This is not a lie, Nor a Joke, Please check on line there are websites that list the breeds, check with your insurance company, They may lie to you but believe you me they do have the list.
A dog home alone for 7 hours well I think I would have a friend or family member check on the dog, Dog flap, ya, they are great. make sure you have a good fenced in yard.
Some people like to use a kennel, ( cage) for the dog when they are not home. At first the dog may not like it. But after a while they love it, the dog finds that is their spot, where they can go and be left alone, and sleep and relax,
Look on line, do your homework before getting a dog, their is lots of information about dog breeds, talk to a breeder, about the dog you may want to buy.