Which Small Dog Breeds for Apartments Are Best? 14 Top Picks

Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you have to give up your dream of owning a dog. Many small dog breeds for apartments thrive in compact spaces and bring incredible joy to urban living. The key is choosing a breed that matches your lifestyle and apartment environment.

Finding the best dog for apartment living involves more than just picking the smallest breed you can find. You need to consider energy levels, barking tendencies, and how well a breed adapts to limited space. Some small dogs are surprisingly active and need constant stimulation, while others are perfectly content lounging on the couch all day.

This guide will help you discover which apartment friendly dog breeds fit your situation. We’ll cover everything from calm lap dogs to slightly more energetic companions, all suitable for smaller living spaces. Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or adding another furry friend to your home, you’ll find the perfect match here.

1. What Makes a Dog Breed Perfect for Apartment Living?

Choosing the best small dog breeds for apartments requires understanding what traits make a dog suitable for compact living. Size matters, but it’s not the only factor that determines success in an apartment setting.

Energy levels play a huge role in apartment compatibility. A hyperactive dog in a small space can lead to destructive behavior and frustrated neighbors. Look for breeds with moderate to low energy that can meet their exercise needs through short walks and indoor play sessions.

Barking tendencies are crucial when you share walls with neighbors. Some breeds are naturally more vocal than others, which can create tension in apartment buildings. The best dog breeds for urban living typically have quieter temperaments or can be trained to minimize excessive barking.

Adaptability separates good apartment dogs from great ones. Dogs that adjust easily to new environments, tolerate being alone for reasonable periods, and stay calm around strangers in hallways and elevators make apartment life much smoother.

Grooming requirements also matter in small spaces. Heavy shedding can quickly overwhelm a compact apartment, and breeds requiring frequent professional grooming add to your expenses. Consider how much maintenance you can realistically handle.

Trainability becomes especially important in apartments. Your dog needs to master potty training without yard access, walk politely on a leash through crowded streets, and behave in elevators and common areas. Breeds that learn quickly and want to please make essential puppy training tips much easier to implement.

2. Top 14 Small Dog Breeds for Apartments

2.1 French Bulldog

French Bulldogs rank among the most popular apartment friendly dog breeds for good reason. These compact, muscular dogs rarely exceed 28 pounds and have minimal exercise needs. Their calm, affectionate nature makes them perfect companions for small spaces.

Frenchies love being close to their owners and adapt beautifully to apartment routines. They’re not big barkers, which your neighbors will appreciate. A couple of short walks daily and some indoor playtime keep them happy and healthy.

Their short coat requires minimal grooming, though their facial wrinkles need regular cleaning. French Bulldogs do well alone for moderate periods, making them suitable for working professionals.

The main challenge with Frenchies is their sensitivity to temperature extremes. They can overheat quickly in summer and struggle in extreme cold, so climate-controlled apartments suit them perfectly. They also tend to snore due to their flat faces, which some owners find endearing while others consider it disruptive.

2.2 Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels combine elegance with an easygoing temperament that thrives in apartments. Weighing between 13-18 pounds, these gentle dogs were literally bred to be companion animals. Their adaptability makes them excellent for both active and relaxed households.

These dogs form deep bonds with their families and handle apartment living exceptionally well. They’re friendly with neighbors, other pets, and children, making them ideal if you live in a family-oriented building. Their moderate energy means they enjoy walks but also love cuddling on the couch.

Cavaliers bark occasionally but aren’t yappy dogs. They respond well to training and genuinely want to please their owners. Regular brushing keeps their silky coat looking beautiful and prevents matting.

One consideration is their strong attachment to people. Cavaliers can develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. If you work long hours, this breed might struggle without a dog walker or pet sitter to break up the day.

2.3 Pug

Pugs bring huge personality to small packages, weighing just 14-18 pounds. These charming dogs are natural comedians who love making their owners laugh. Their low energy levels and preference for indoor living make them perfect small dog breeds for apartments.

Despite their playful nature, Pugs don’t require intense exercise. A couple of short walks and some indoor games satisfy their activity needs. They’re adaptable, friendly, and get along well with everyone they meet, including other apartment residents and their pets.

Pugs shed more than you might expect given their short coat, so regular brushing helps manage the fur. They’re not excessive barkers, though they do make snorting and snoring sounds that some people find adorable and others find annoying.

Like French Bulldogs, Pugs have flat faces that make them sensitive to heat and prone to breathing difficulties. They can also be stubborn during training, requiring patience and consistency. Their tendency to overeat means you’ll need to monitor their diet carefully to prevent obesity.

2.4 Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers earned the nickname “American Gentleman” for their tuxedo-like markings and polite behavior. Weighing 12-25 pounds, these compact dogs adapt wonderfully to apartment living. They’re intelligent, friendly, and easier to train than many small breeds.

These dogs have moderate energy that’s manageable in small spaces. They enjoy daily walks and playtime but don’t need hours of exercise. Boston Terriers are generally quiet dogs that won’t disturb your neighbors with constant barking.

Their short coat requires minimal grooming and they produce less doggy odor than many breeds. Boston Terriers are social dogs that enjoy meeting new people and pets, making elevator rides and hallway encounters pleasant.

The challenge with Boston Terriers is their occasional stubbornness and their flat faces, which can cause breathing issues. They’re also sensitive to temperature extremes. Some individuals can be territorial or protective, requiring early socialization to ensure friendly behavior in apartment common areas.

2.5 Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus were bred specifically to be indoor companion dogs for Chinese royalty, making them naturally suited for apartment life. These 9-16 pound dogs have low exercise needs and calm temperaments that fit perfectly in compact spaces.

These friendly dogs love everyone they meet and rarely show aggression. They’re content spending most of their time indoors and don’t require extensive exercise beyond short daily walks. Shih Tzus adapt well to different living situations and handle being alone reasonably well.

Their beautiful flowing coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Many owners keep their Shih Tzus in shorter “puppy cuts” to reduce maintenance. These dogs are generally quiet and won’t cause noise complaints from neighbors.

The main consideration is their grooming commitment. Without regular brushing and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks, their coat becomes a tangled mess. They can also be challenging to housetrain, which requires extra patience in apartments without yard access.

2.6 Maltese

Maltese dogs are tiny bundles of affection weighing just 4-7 pounds. Despite their small size, they have confident personalities and adapt beautifully to apartment living. These gentle dogs were bred as companion animals and excel in that role.

Their minimal exercise needs make them perfect for small spaces. A few short walks and indoor playtime keep them healthy and happy. Maltese are generally quiet dogs that bond closely with their owners without being overly demanding.

One of the biggest advantages is their hypoallergenic coat, which we’ll discuss more in the next section. They shed very little, making them excellent choices for people with allergies or those who want to keep their apartment cleaner.

Maltese require regular grooming to maintain their silky white coat. They can develop separation anxiety if left alone frequently, and some individuals can be yappy if not properly trained. Their tiny size also makes them fragile, requiring careful handling and supervision around children or larger pets.

2.7 Bichon Frise

Bichon Frises are cheerful, adaptable dogs weighing 12-18 pounds. Their friendly nature and moderate energy levels make them excellent apartment friendly dog breeds. These fluffy white dogs bring joy wherever they go without overwhelming small living spaces.

Bichons are naturally social and get along well with neighbors, children, and other pets. They’re intelligent and trainable, making apartment-specific behaviors easier to teach. Their size and temperament suit various household types, from singles to families.

These dogs have hypoallergenic coats that shed minimally, though they require regular professional grooming to maintain their signature puffy appearance. Bichons aren’t typically excessive barkers, though they will alert you to visitors.

The grooming commitment is significant, requiring brushing several times weekly and professional grooming every 4-6 weeks. Some Bichons can be difficult to housetrain and may develop separation anxiety. They need daily mental stimulation to prevent boredom-related behaviors in confined spaces.

2.8 Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers pack big personalities into 4-7 pound bodies. These confident little dogs adapt well to apartment living when properly trained. Their small size means they don’t need much space, and their exercise requirements are easily met through indoor play and short walks.

Yorkies are intelligent and form strong bonds with their owners. They’re portable enough to take almost anywhere, which many apartment dwellers appreciate. Despite their tiny size, they’re surprisingly brave and make good watchdogs without being nuisance barkers if trained properly.

Their silky coat is considered hypoallergenic and sheds very little. However, it requires daily brushing to prevent tangles. Many owners keep their Yorkies in shorter clips for easier maintenance.

Yorkshire Terriers can be yappy if not trained early, which could cause issues with neighbors. They’re also fragile due to their tiny size and can be stubborn during training. Some Yorkies develop “small dog syndrome” if owners don’t establish clear boundaries, leading to behavioral issues.

2.9 Pomeranian

Pomeranians are fluffy, fox-like dogs weighing just 3-7 pounds. These lively companions adapt well to apartment living despite their energetic personalities. Their small size means they can get adequate exercise through indoor play sessions combined with short walks.

These intelligent dogs are alert and curious about their surroundings. Pomeranians bond closely with their families and enjoy being involved in daily activities. They’re portable and travel-friendly, making them convenient for urban lifestyles.

Pomeranians have thick double coats that require regular brushing to prevent matting and manage shedding. They’re generally healthy and have long lifespans, often living 12-16 years.

The main challenge is their tendency to bark at everything. Pomeranians are naturally vocal and need consistent training to control excessive barking in apartments. They can also be difficult to housetrain and may develop separation anxiety. Their small size makes them delicate, requiring gentle handling.

2.10 Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzers are sturdy, intelligent dogs weighing 11-20 pounds. These adaptable dogs excel in apartments when given proper training and exercise. They’re friendly, alert, and easier to train than many small breeds, similar to best small dog breeds for kids in their patient temperament.

These dogs have moderate energy levels that require daily walks but not exhausting exercise routines. Miniature Schnauzers are naturally clean dogs with minimal doggy odor. Their beard and eyebrows give them a distinctive, charming appearance.

Their wiry coat sheds very little, making them excellent for people concerned about fur in their apartment. Regular grooming every 6-8 weeks keeps them looking their best, though many owners learn to do basic trimming at home.

Miniature Schnauzers can be vocal and territorial if not properly trained. They have strong personalities and need consistent training from the start. Some individuals may show aggression toward other dogs, requiring early socialization. Their high intelligence means they need mental stimulation to prevent boredom-related behaviors.

2.11 Havanese

Havanese dogs are adaptable, affectionate companions weighing 7-13 pounds. Originally bred as urban companion dogs in Havana, they’re naturally suited for apartment living. These social butterflies thrive on human interaction and adapt to various household types.

Their moderate energy levels suit apartment life perfectly. Havanese enjoy walks and playtime but don’t require excessive exercise. They’re typically quiet dogs that get along beautifully with neighbors, children, and other pets. Their friendly nature makes them excellent for social apartment buildings.

Havanese have long, silky coats that shed minimally, making them good choices for allergy sufferers. However, their coat requires daily brushing to prevent matting, and regular professional grooming keeps them comfortable.

The main consideration is their strong need for companionship. Havanese don’t do well being left alone for long periods and can develop severe separation anxiety. They also require significant grooming commitment. Some individuals can be timid if not properly socialized, and they may bark to alert you of sounds in hallways or neighboring apartments.

2.12 Italian Greyhound

Italian Greyhounds are elegant, slender dogs weighing just 7-14 pounds. These graceful sighthounds adapt surprisingly well to apartment living despite their athletic build. They’re affectionate, gentle, and bond deeply with their owners, enjoying quiet companionship.

While they appreciate daily walks, Italian Greyhounds are actually quite lazy indoors. They love warmth and spend much of their time cuddling on soft surfaces. Their short coat requires minimal grooming and they’re naturally clean dogs with little odor.

These dogs are generally quiet and well-mannered, making them excellent neighbors in apartment buildings. They’re sensitive and gentle, preferring calm environments to chaotic ones.

Italian Greyhounds are extremely sensitive to cold and need sweaters or coats in cooler weather. They’re also very fragile with delicate bones that break easily. Housetraining can be challenging, and they can develop separation anxiety. Their high prey drive means they might chase small animals, requiring careful leash management during walks.

2.13 Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are the smallest dog breed, weighing just 2-6 pounds. These tiny dogs are perfectly sized for apartment living and can meet their exercise needs through indoor play. Despite their size, they have big personalities and fierce loyalty to their owners.

Chihuahuas are portable and easy to take anywhere, from pet-friendly stores to outdoor cafes. They adapt to various living situations and don’t need much space to be comfortable. Their small size means feeding costs are minimal.

Grooming depends on whether you choose smooth or long-coated varieties. Smooth Chihuahuas need minimal grooming, while long-coated ones require regular brushing. Both types are relatively low-maintenance compared to many breeds.

The main challenges include their tendency to be yappy, which can disturb neighbors. Many Chihuahuas develop “small dog syndrome” if not properly trained, leading to snappy or bossy behavior. They’re also fragile and don’t do well in households with young children. Chihuahuas can be difficult to housetrain and often bond strongly with one person while being aloof with others.

2.14 Dachshund

Dachshunds come in miniature (11 pounds and under) and standard sizes (16-32 pounds), with miniatures being ideal for apartments. These distinctive long-bodied dogs have moderate energy levels and adapt well to compact living spaces. Their clever, playful nature makes them entertaining companions, much like other best small dog breeds known for their charming personalities.

These dogs enjoy daily walks but don’t require extensive exercise. Dachshunds are alert watchdogs that will notify you of visitors, though they can be trained not to bark excessively. They’re surprisingly adaptable and do well in various household types.

Grooming needs vary by coat type (smooth, wirehaired, or longhaired), but all are manageable. Smooth Dachshunds require minimal grooming, while longhaired varieties need regular brushing.

Dachshunds can be stubborn and challenging to train, requiring patience and consistency. Their long backs make them prone to spinal problems, so you’ll need to prevent jumping from furniture and manage stairs carefully. Some individuals can be territorial and may show aggression toward other dogs. They tend to bond closely with one person and can be aloof with strangers.

3. Hypoallergenic Small Dogs for Apartment Dwellers

If you or someone in your household has allergies, choosing small hypoallergenic dogs for apartments becomes essential. While no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, certain breeds produce fewer allergens and shed less dander.

The best hypoallergenic options from our list include Maltese, Bichon Frise, Yorkshire Terrier, and Miniature Schnauzer. These breeds have hair instead of fur, which grows continuously like human hair rather than shedding seasonally. This significantly reduces the amount of dander released into your apartment.

Poodle mixes also make excellent hypoallergenic apartment dogs, though they weren’t included in our main list. Maltipoos, Yorkipoos, and other “designer” mixes often combine hypoallergenic coats with apartment-friendly temperaments.

Important to understand: all dogs produce allergens through their saliva, urine, and skin oils. Best small dogs that don’t shed help minimize exposure but won’t eliminate allergies completely. Before committing to a dog, spend time with the specific breed to gauge your allergic reactions.

Managing allergies in apartments requires extra effort. Regular grooming, frequent vacuuming with HEPA filters, washing dog bedding weekly, and keeping your bedroom a dog-free zone all help reduce allergen levels in your compact space.

4. Small Dog Breeds to Avoid in Apartments

Not every small dog thrives in apartment settings. Understanding which breeds struggle helps you avoid potential problems with neighbors, landlords, and your own quality of life.

Beagles are friendly, lovable dogs but terrible for apartments. They were bred to bay while hunting, and many Beagles are extremely vocal. Their howling and barking can cause serious noise complaints. They also have high energy levels that are difficult to satisfy without a yard.

Jack Russell Terriers pack incredible energy into small bodies. These hyperactive dogs need constant physical and mental stimulation that’s nearly impossible to provide in an apartment. They’re also prone to excessive barking and can be destructive when bored.

Miniature Pinschers are energetic, vocal dogs that struggle with apartment life. They bark at everything and have high exercise needs. While trainable, they require experienced owners who can establish firm boundaries.

Fox Terriers are another high-energy, vocal breed unsuited for compact living. They were bred to hunt and bark at prey underground, instincts that translate to excessive noise in apartment settings.

Why do these small dogs struggle? High energy levels without proper outlets lead to destructive behaviors. Excessive barking creates neighbor conflicts. Strong prey drives make them reactive to sounds through walls. If you’re considering these breeds, think carefully about whether you can meet their needs in an apartment environment.

Better alternatives include the calmer breeds listed earlier in this guide. If you love energetic dogs, consider whether you can commit to multiple long walks daily, doggy daycare, or regular visits to dog parks to burn off excess energy.

Conclusion

Finding the best small dog breeds for apartments comes down to matching breed characteristics with your lifestyle and living situation. The 14 breeds covered here offer various personalities, energy levels, and care requirements to suit different preferences.

Remember that apartment friendly dog breeds need more than just small size. Consider barking tendencies, exercise needs, grooming requirements, and how well a breed handles being alone. The best dog breeds for urban living adapt to compact spaces, interact politely with neighbors, and stay calm in elevators and hallways.

Before bringing home any dog, research thoroughly and meet the breed if possible. Consider adopting from rescues or shelters, where many wonderful small dogs need homes. Talk to your landlord about breed restrictions and pet deposits. Prepare your apartment with necessary supplies and puppy-proofing.

How to enjoy life with new puppy starts with choosing the right breed for your situation. Whether you want a cuddly lap dog like a Maltese or a more active companion like a Boston Terrier, there’s a perfect small dog breed for your apartment lifestyle. With the right match, you’ll discover that city living and dog ownership combine beautifully to create a fulfilling, joy-filled life.

Take your time with this important decision. Your future companion will share your apartment for 10-15 years or more, bringing love, laughter, and companionship to your urban home. Choose wisely, prepare thoroughly, and you’ll enjoy all the benefits that the best dog for apartment living can bring.