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Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you must miss out on having a furry best friend. However, not all dogs are suited for smaller spaces, and some breeds are more likely to bark, zoom around like maniacs, or demand backyard-sized play areas. The best apartment-friendly dogs are adaptable and happy to curl up on the couch instead of requiring acres of space to burn off energy. These dogs are great for cozy living spaces, friendly toward neighbors, and (mostly) won’t cause a noise complaint from the guy next door.
French Bulldog
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French Bulldogs are the ultimate apartment-friendly dogs. They are small, quiet, and incredibly low-energy, preferring naps over high-energy play. These little clowns love being around their humans but are also independent enough to chill alone while you’re out. They rarely bark, making them great for shared walls and close neighbors. Plus, their charming personalities mean they’ll probably become the most popular pup in your building!
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
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Cavaliers are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them perfect for apartment living. They are small in size but big in heart, loving nothing more than curling up on the couch with their owner. While they do enjoy walks, they don’t require excessive exercise, so a couple of short outings a day will keep them happy. They also tend to be quiet dogs, meaning you won’t have to apologize to your neighbors for constant barking.
Greyhound
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Despite their reputation as racing dogs, Greyhounds are actually couch potatoes. They love lounging around and are surprisingly well-suited for apartment living. While they enjoy a good sprint occasionally, they are content with a couple of short daily walks. Greyhounds are generally quiet, calm, and well-mannered, making them an excellent choice for those living in close quarters with others.
Basenji
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The Basenji is known as the “barkless dog,” automatically making it a top pick for apartment life. Instead of barking, they make a unique yodeling sound, which is rare. They are independent, clean, and don’t have a strong odor, making them a great choice for people who want a quiet, low-maintenance companion. Just be sure to give them some mental stimulation—these clever dogs can get a little mischievous when bored!
Bichon Frise
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Bichon Frises are small, cheerful dogs with an adaptable nature that makes them perfect for apartment living. They don’t need much space and are happy with a few short walks and playtime indoors. They are known for their friendly and affectionate personality, meaning they’ll likely charm your neighbors instead of annoying them. Plus, their hypoallergenic coats make them a great choice for allergy sufferers.
Shih Tzu
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Shih Tzus were literally bred to be companion dogs, and they take their job seriously. These little fluff balls are quiet, loving, and perfectly happy in smaller living spaces. They don’t need much exercise, preferring to lounge around with their favorite human. While they do require regular grooming, their calm demeanor and easygoing nature make them one of the best apartment dogs.
Italian Greyhound
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Like their larger Greyhound cousins, Italian Greyhounds are surprisingly great for apartments. They are small, low-energy, and love nothing more than snuggling under blankets. These dogs are affectionate and bond closely with their owners, making them great companions for those living alone. Just be sure to provide them with cozy bedding—they are known for being little heat-seekers who love staying warm.
Chihuahua
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Chihuahuas may have big personalities, but their tiny size makes them ideal for apartments. They don’t require much space and are just as happy inside as they are on a walk. While they can be a little vocal, proper training can keep their barking under control. They love being with their owners, and their portable size means they’re easy to take with you wherever you go.
Boston Terrier
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Boston Terriers are friendly, compact, and adaptable, making them an excellent choice for city living. They don’t require excessive exercise and are happy with short walks and indoor play. These dogs are affectionate and easygoing, getting along well with neighbors and other pets. They also have a great sense of humor, meaning they’ll keep you entertained without annoying the people next door.
Pug
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Pugs are well-known for their goofy, lovable nature and ability to thrive in small spaces. They are low-energy dogs who enjoy lounging around but appreciate short play sessions. Pugs rarely bark excessively, making them great for apartment dwellers who don’t want to deal with noise complaints. Their biggest demand? Lots of attention and belly rubs!
Maltese
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Maltese dogs are small, affectionate, and perfect for apartments due to their quiet and adaptable nature. They don’t require much exercise and are happy being lap dogs, making them a great choice for people with busy lifestyles. Their friendly demeanor also makes them ideal neighbors who love to stop and say hello. Just be prepared for some grooming—these little dogs have long, beautiful coats that need regular maintenance.
Lhasa Apso
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Lhasa Apsos may be small, but they have a big personality! These dogs were bred to be indoor companions and guard dogs, meaning they’re both affectionate and protective. They don’t need much space and are content with short daily walks. While they may bark occasionally, they are typically well-mannered and easy to train. Their loyalty and calm nature make them great apartment pets.
Scottish Terrier
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Scottish Terriers, or “Scotties,” are small but sturdy dogs that adapt well to apartment life. They are independent and don’t require constant attention, making them great for full-time owners. They are generally quiet dogs but will alert you to anything unusual, making them good watchdogs. With their dignified yet playful personality, they bring plenty of charm without chaos.
Japanese Chin
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The Japanese Chin is an elegant, cat-like dog that thrives in small spaces. These dogs are quiet and affectionate and love lounging around with their owners. They are adaptable and don’t require excessive exercise, making them ideal for apartment dwellers. Their graceful demeanor and love of relaxing mean they fit perfectly into a cozy home environment.
Coton de Tulear
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The Coton de Tulear is a small, fluffy dog with a big heart and a relaxed personality. These affectionate companions thrive in apartments, thanks to their low-energy nature and minimal barking. They love being with their owners and are content with short walks and indoor play. Their hypoallergenic coat makes them a great choice for allergy sufferers, and their friendly demeanor means they’ll win over your neighbors in no time. Just be ready for many cuddles—these dogs are serious snuggle pros!
Your Neighbors Will Thank You
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Having a dog in an apartment doesn’t mean sacrificing peace and quiet—these breeds prove you can have the best of both worlds. Whether you want a tiny lap dog, a relaxed couch companion, or a low-maintenance buddy, these apartment-friendly dogs will keep your home (and your neighbors) happy. They may be small in size or quiet in nature, but don’t be fooled—they’ll still claim the comfiest spot on your couch and demand all the attention. After all, even the calmest pups love being the center of your world!
