Best Dog Breeds for Apartment Living

After thinking it over carefully, you've made a decision: you want a dog in your life. But you live in an apartment, and doubt creeps in: which breed would be the best fit? It's clear that if you don't have a lot of square footage, size does matter.

Learn what other factors you should consider, and take note of the best dog breeds for small apartments.

Why Is a Small Dog Better Than a Large One?

When deciding which dog is best for your home, logic should win out. If you live in a 30-square-meter apartment, sharing it with a Great Dane — no matter how much you love the breed and care for your dog — won't be a good idea. Not for you, and not for them.

Dogs, just like people, need enough space to feel comfortable and happy.

Besides size, there are other factors worth keeping in mind when choosing your canine companion:

• Energy level. Keep in mind that some dogs are calmer, while others need to run and have much more intense physical activity. That's why dogs like the Galgo, the Dalmatian, or the Border Collie are better suited to a rural setting than an urban one.
• Being quiet and sociable. Both traits always matter, but they become essential when living in an apartment with neighbors and small children around.

All these considerations should guide your choice, since the dog you bring home needs to fit well with apartment living. Remember: this is an important decision, and you can't take it lightly.

Breeds That Adapt Well to Small Apartment Living

There are plenty of dogs that adapt well to this kind of living situation. Drawing on our own experience, here's our top 5 best dog breeds for apartments.

West Highland White Terrier

The Westie is just the right size: not too small, not too big. It also loves sleeping, and as an adult, its temperament is calm and independent.

It's not a dog that'll follow you everywhere all the time. Even so, it's affectionate, friendly, and well-balanced. In fact, it's sure to get along great with the kids in the house.

That said, you shouldn't leave it alone with small animals, given its hunting instinct. You'll also need to walk it daily so it can properly socialize with its dog friends.

Yorkshire Terrier

Another Terrier that surely won't mind apartment living. The Yorkshire is a dog that weighs very little, no more than three kilos; it's also affectionate and sociable.

This dog loves indoor life, though it's active and loves being the center of attention. One possible downside is that it tends to bark a lot, which is why they make good watchdogs.

To avoid this, you'll need to train it properly. The good news is it's an easy breed to train.

Chihuahua

Its small size and moderate energy level make it a good apartment companion. It can be a bit wary of strangers, but is deeply loyal to its main caregiver.

That's why the Chihuahua is an ideal dog for people living alone or for older adults. Although it's very intelligent and adaptable, it's not recommended for homes with small children.

It's also very sensitive to cold and prone to elbow dislocations and other health issues typical of miniature breeds.

English Bulldog

Although it's a medium-sized dog (between 23 and 25 kilos), it's perfect for an apartment because if there's one thing it never tires of, it's lying around. It has low stamina, so its exercise needs aren't very high.

The English Bulldog is also sweet, predictable, and trustworthy, making it an excellent dog to live with children. If you don't mind its drooling and snoring, you'll be more than happy to have it by your side.

Shih Tzu

Weighing no more than 10 kilos, this dog is known for its cheerful temperament. Shih Tzus are very playful and tend to get along with everyone, including animals of other species.

They love human company and cuddles, making them a good dog to have around children. Another plus is that their energy level isn't excessive, though they should be walked often to stay in shape.

It's a dog that needs a lot of personal attention and daily grooming, especially if you decide to keep its beautiful coat long.

This list of best apartment dogs could go on, listing the many advantages of the Dachshund, the Cavalier, the Pug, the Pekingese, the Poodle...

The truth is there are many small and miniature dog breeds that don't need much space to be happy, and that can make good candidates for apartment living.

As long as, of course, they get all our love and proper attention. So, after reading our recommendations, which dog breed do you think would best fit your lifestyle?