Living in a flat doesn't mean you have to miss out on the joy of being a dog owner. While some breeds require large gardens and plenty of space to roam, others are well-suited to apartment living. The best flat-friendly dogs tend to be smaller in size, have moderate energy levels and are able to adapt well to indoor life.
When choosing a dog for a flat, it's important to consider their temperament, exercise needs and of course, their bark levels. Some dogs are naturally quieter and more independent, while others require more attention and regular walks to keep them happy. To help you decide, we’ve rounded up six of the best dog breeds for flat living, based on their suitability for smaller homes, ease of training and overall temperament.
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Renowned for their affectionate and adaptable nature, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are small dogs that thrive in compact living spaces.
They enjoy moderate exercise and are content to relax indoors, making them ideal companions for flat dwellers.
According to the experts at Borrow My Doggy: “They can thrive in apartments or houses, as long as they receive proper attention, outdoor exercise and mental stimulation.”
2. Shih Tzu
Originally bred to live in Chinese palaces, Shih Tzus are small, quiet and very loving dogs that require relatively little outdoor time.
Their calm demeanour and minimal exercise needs make them perfectly content living in a flat.
The PDSA said: “Shih Tzu's are happy living in a flat or a large country home as long as they have space to play which makes them popular pets.”
3. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are known for their easygoing nature and suitability for apartment living. They are affectionate, require moderate exercise, and their compact size makes them a popular choice for those in smaller spaces.
The PDSA does however issue a word of warning for flat-dwelling dog lovers.
They said: “Frenchies are a flat-faced breed, which can often cause breathing problems and means they overheat quickly, especially when they exercise in warmer weather.”
4. Pug
Pugs are small dogs that are perfectly happy living in a flat. A couple of moderate walks a day will keep them exercised, and then they'll be content napping on the couch
Being small and unlikely to roam very much, they're well suited to life in a flat or modest living space.
5. Bichon Frise
Rarely growing over a foot in height and weighing in at just 15 pounds, the Bichon Frise is a dog that seems to have been perfectly designed for living in a flat.
While they need very little space to be comfortable, they don't like being left alone for more than a few hour, which is something that needs to be taken into consideration if you are thinking of buying a Bichon.
6. Greyhound
Perhaps the most surprising addition to this list is the Greyhound.
Often referred to as “45-mph couch potatoes,” greyhounds are very well suited to apartment living. They enjoy short bursts of exercise but are predominantly calm indoors.
When choosing a dog for your flat, it's essential to consider not just the breed's size but also their energy levels, temperament, and exercise needs.
Regardless of the breed, regular exercise and mental stimulation are crucial to ensure a happy and healthy life for your canine companion.
