It can be extremely difficult to choose a dog that can live with you comfortably in an apartment. From noise restrictions to cramped spaces, a long list of factors has to be considered before you adopt a dog who matches these requirements. A small apartment does not mean that it is impossible to own a dog. On the contrary, there are numerous dogs that are suited to urban spaces and thrive with people around them. If you are looking for apartment dog breeds that tick everything off your list, here is a list for you.
1. Pug
If you’re a true dog lover, there’s a good chance that hearing the word “wrinkles” will remind you of a Pug, thanks to their appearance. These little pooches have quite the reputation for being toy dogs that can thrive in an apartment. Pugs are rarely ever higher than 33 cm tall. Shouldn’t come across as a surprise that this little pooch weighs between 6 to 8 kg only. You might’ve seen most Pugs in light brown and black colours, but there are some variations too. Don’t be fooled by their size though, as Pugs shed excessively and are prone to becoming obese. So ensure you give your Pug a quick comb daily and a regulated diet with exercise.
Pugs are ideal for apartments because they are known to sleep for approximately 13 hours a day! A perfect companion for those who are secretly couch potatoes. One of the most endearing things about a Pug is how they’ve mastered the art of being a mischievous yet jolly good dog that values companionship! If you have neighbors that dislike noise, Pugs are your solution because their bark is soft and infrequent. Since they hardly require any space for activity, they are ideal if you have children or senior citizens at home.
2. Griffon Bruxellois
Ever came across a tiny four-legged embodiment of a grumpy grandpa? One look at the little dog breed Griffon Bruxellois would have you agreeing with us. With an approximate height of 17 to 21 cm and a mere weight of 3.6 to 4.5 kilograms, living in an apartment should pose no challenge to this mutt. Griffons usually come in three standard colors of black, red and black, and tan. Considering how this breed is prone to their coat turning rough and messy, you would be wise to brush them regularly. If anything, you should be doing that.
These tiny dogs do not enjoy outdoor activity, an excess of which can give them a heat stroke. It is important that you let them rest in a cool, dry place on hot and humid days. Griffons are highly intelligent dogs that seek attention and affection frequently. They exhibit a curious and self-important temperament, often barking at every insignificant occurrence. You would need to train them consistently and patiently to stop unnecessary barking which can cause noise problems with neighbors. Griffons are also known for their stubborn and independent personality. As they thrive on love and affection, the key to their hearts is treating them with kindness and using positive reinforcements instead of rough reprimands.
3. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier is one of the best dogs you can choose to live with you in an apartment. They adapt well to small spaces and are as small as 20 to 23 cm. They weigh anywhere between 2 to 4 kilograms. What’s unmissable about them is their silky glamorous coat. Think of them as a high maintenance celebrity dog whose silky hair needs regular brushing. Fortunately, their undercoat remains kind enough to limit their shedding.
Yorkshire Terriers are companion dogs that are both playful and loyal. They are also adventurous and make great travel partners. However, they are not the ideal choice if you have a baby or toddler at home. They tend to bark or “yap” frequently at insignificant things and are difficult to house-train. Once trained, Yorkshire Terriers will be on their best behavior, avoiding accidents, excessive chewing, or barking in your apartment.
4. Dachshund
Dachshunds are tiny dogs that don’t weigh more than 8 kilograms and grow only up to 23 cm. Because of their small body and easy care, they rate the highest for apartment living. Dachshunds come in a wide range of colors and have different patterned coats. These coats are of three types – smooth, longhaired, and wirehaired. Unlike the other two types, Longhaired Dachshunds have to be brushed daily.
They are both intelligent and independent while exhibiting a playful disposition. Family dogs by nature, Dachshunds are possessive of and devoted to their owners. They also exhibit the ability to be highly active in smaller indoor spaces which is a bonus. Dachshunds being hounds tend to have a prominent bark, which won’t do you any favours because hounds can be hard to train. However, if you train them firmly and consistently with patience, these tiny dogs will gel well with children and act as clever watchdogs.
5. Beagle
At a height of 33 to 39 cm, Beagles are known for their friendly temperament and compassion. They weigh anywhere from 8 to 20 kilograms and have any one of the three coat colors: black, white, and tan. Don’t be fooled by their size because these little mutts are excellent trackers as they fall under the category of scent hounds. Of course, you can expect them to bark unnecessarily and wander off because at times. Fret not though, as obedience training in their early years can curb this behavior.
Beagles are known for their affection and need for frequent company. Think of Courage the Cowardly Dog’s love for Muriel for example. Just like Courage did, Beagles do not need to be groomed or bathed frequently. However, they love food and tend to become overweight after their early years. You might have to regulate its diet while also taking it for frequent walks.
6. Indian Spitz
Indian Spitzs are domestic dogs apt for apartment living. The smaller Indian Spitz stands at a height of 20-25cms while the greater Indian Spitz has a height of 35 to 45cms. They weigh a maximum of 20 kilograms with the smaller Spitz at a maximum weight of 7 kilograms. Their coats have to be groomed regularly and we recommend you do so with a comb that has a double row of metal teeth to access the lower layer.
They are extremely playful, high-spirited and are known to be fond of children. They are active and vocal with high amounts of energy. They are also highly adaptable dogs with moderate exercise needs. A long walk every day would suffice. Indian Spitzs are obedient, intelligent and fast learners. Thus, training them is relatively easy, even for amateurs.
Top 6 Apartment Dogs Video
See also: Best Small Dog Breeds | Top 6 Medium-sized Dogs
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