Affable Dog Breeds for Apartments: 10 Top Tips for Choosing the Right Pooch (2024)

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You’re thinking of getting a dog but you live in an apartment and aren’t sure which breed to go for.

Well, there are plenty of options, whatever your living situation.

Some dogs are small and quiet, others have low energy, and then there are those that are just happy to lounge around on the sofa.

Read on to find out about the best affable dog breeds for apartments and discover the top tips for choosing your new furry friend.

Best Small Breeds for Apartments

If you’re living in an apartment and looking for a furry friend to join you, there are plenty of small dog breeds that are perfect for your space.

When choosing a small dog breed for your apartment, consider their energy levels and temperament. Some small dogs are quiet and low-key, while others are playful and energetic. It’s important to match their energy with your lifestyle.

Here are some of the best small dog breeds for apartments:

• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: These gentle and affectionate dogs are the perfect companion for apartment living. They’ve low energy levels and are content with indoor playtime and short walks.
• Bichon Frise: Playful and adaptable, Bichon Frises thrive on human companionship. They’re intelligent and satisfied with daily walks and indoor play. Plus, their low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat makes them a great choice for allergy sufferers.
• Shih Tzu: Loyal and loving, Shih Tzus are happy with indoor play and short strolls. They’re content to lounge and cuddle, making them ideal for apartment life.
• Pug: Pugs are charming and full of character. They enjoy cuddling and leisurely walks. Their compact size makes them well-suited for apartments, and they’re known for being quiet companions.
• French Bulldog: Friendly and easygoing, French Bulldogs are happy with moderate exercise. They’re a laid-back breed that enjoys lounging and short bursts of activity.

Best Large Breeds for Apartments

Now that you’ve explored the best small breeds for apartments, let’s move on to their larger counterparts.

When it comes to large dog breeds for apartments, you might think that space constraints automatically rule them out. However, there are some gentle giants that can adapt well to apartment living. Here are some things to think about when choosing a large breed for your apartment:

• Space: Make sure your apartment has enough room for a large dog to move around comfortably. They should have adequate space to stretch, play, and relax without feeling cramped.
• Exercise: While some large breeds have lower activity levels, they still require daily exercise. Opt for walks, indoor playtime, or short bursts of activity to keep them healthy and happy.
• Quiet: Think about breeds that are known for being quiet or easily trainable to minimize barking. This is especially important in an apartment setting, where excessive barking can disturb neighbors.

  With these things in mind, here are some of the best large dog breeds for apartments:

• Great Dane: Despite their imposing size, Great Danes are gentle and calm. They don’t require a lot of space for exercise and are content with lounging around.
• Mastiff: Loyal and protective, Mastiffs are happy to relax at home and don’t need a lot of space to roam.
• Newfoundland: These gentle giants are known for their sweet and patient nature. They’re adaptable and can be comfortable in an apartment setting with moderate exercise.
• Bernese Mountain Dog: Affectionate and playful, this breed enjoys leisurely walks and cuddles. They’re easygoing and can adapt to apartment life with proper exercise and training.

Low-Energy Dogs for Apartment Living

Looking for a dog that’s a good fit for apartment life? You’ll want a dog that’s not just a companion, but also a quiet, low-energy roommate. Here are some breeds known for their low-maintenance, calm demeanor:

• Small Breeds: These little guys are perfect for apartment living as they don’t require a lot of space and are happy with indoor play and short walks.
  • Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Gentle, affectionate, and easy-going.
  • Bichon Frise: Adaptable and playful, they love human company.
  • Shih Tzu: Loyal, content, and cuddly.
  • Pug: Charming, comical, and always up for a stroll.
• Large Breeds: Don’t be fooled by their size, these gentle giants are surprisingly low-energy and calm.
  • Great Dane: Despite their stature, they’re known for their gentle and relaxed temperament.
  • Mastiff: Loyal and protective, they’re happy to chill at home.
  • Newfoundland: Patient and sweet, they’re the gentle giants of the dog world.
  • Bernese Mountain Dog: Affectionate and playful, they enjoy a good cuddle.

Considerations for Apartment Dog Ownership

When choosing a dog for your apartment, there are several key considerations to keep in mind. These include managing barking and behaviour, ensuring adequate space and exercise, and providing consistent training and socialization opportunities.

Barking and Behaviour

When choosing a dog for your apartment, it’s important to think about their barking habits and overall behavior. You don’t want to disturb your neighbors with excessive noise. Select a breed known for being quiet or easily trained to reduce barking.

Dog Breed	Barking Tendency	Trainability
Basenji	Minimal Barking	High
Affenpinscher	Prone to Barking	Moderate
American Eskimo Dog	Prone to Barking	Moderate
Bichon Frise	Low Barking	High

Space and Exercise

Space and exercise are important considerations when choosing a dog for your apartment. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:

1. Check your living space: Make sure your apartment provides enough space for your dog to move around comfortably. Consider the size of the dog and their natural tendencies—some breeds need more room to roam, while others are happy with cozy quarters.
2. Understand their exercise needs: Different dog breeds have varying exercise requirements. While some may be satisfied with indoor playtime and short walks, others need more vigorous activity. See if you can meet these needs, especially if you have limited access to outdoor spaces.
3. Create an indoor routine: Establish a daily routine that includes dedicated playtime and exercise sessions. This is crucial for maintaining your dog’s physical and mental health, regardless of the amount of space they have.

Training and Socialisation

Training is essential for any dog, but it’s especially important for apartment dogs. You’ll want a well-behaved pooch who’s a dream to live with, not a nightmare for your neighbours. Consistent training helps prevent unwanted behaviours and makes sure your dog is a joy to be around.

Socialisation is also key. You’ll want a dog who’s comfortable and friendly around others, not one who barks at every noise or person that passes by. Early and ongoing socialisation helps your dog adjust to apartment living and gets along swimmingly with neighbours and other pets.

Small Breeds With Low Energy

Looking for small dog breeds that are low energy and perfect for apartment living? You’ve got a bunch of great options that are perfect for apartment living. These pooches are known for their chill personalities and don’t require a ton of space to roam. Here are some of the best small breeds with low energy that make ideal apartment companions:

1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Renowned for their gentle and affectionate nature, these pups are the epitome of low-key. They’re happy to snuggle up on the couch and will enjoy short walks around the neighborhood.
2. Bichon Frise: These little fluffballs are playful and adaptable. They thrive on human companionship and are always up for a game or a cuddle. Don’t worry about taking them on marathon runs; they’re content with daily walks and indoor playtime.
3. Shih Tzu: Loyal and loving, Shih Tzus are the epitome of lapdogs. They’re happy with indoor play and short strolls, and their small size makes them perfect apartment companions.
4. Pug: Pugs are the ultimate apartment dogs. They’re charming, goofy, and always up for a good time, whether it’s lounging on the couch or taking a leisurely walk. They’re also quiet, so you won’t have to worry about excessive barking disturbing your neighbors.

Large Breeds With Low Energy

Now that we’ve covered small dog breeds with low energy, let’s shift our focus to their larger counterparts. Believe it or not, some of the biggest dogs out there are also the laziest! These gentle giants are perfect for apartment living because they don’t require a ton of space or exercise.

Take the Great Dane, for example. Despite their towering stature, they’re known for being calm and gentle. Or consider the Mastiff, a loyal and protective breed that’s happy to just hang out at home. If you’re looking for a sweet and patient companion, the Newfoundland could be your perfect match. For those who want a playful yet cuddly buddy, the Bernese Mountain Dog is an excellent choice. And let’s not forget the Bullmastiff, a loyal and protective breed that’s content with moderate exercise.

These large breeds with low energy levels are a great option for urban dwellers who want a big dog without the high-energy demands. They’re the epitome of "lazy loungers," and they’ll fit right into your apartment lifestyle.

Exercise Requirements for Apartment Dogs

Apartment dogs need a good amount of exercise. You don’t want your furry friend stuck inside all day, so it’s important to make sure they get enough physical activity and mental stimulation. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Daily walks: Taking your dog for a walk is a great way to explore your neighborhood and give them some fresh air and exercise. Keep it low-impact with a leisurely pace, especially if your dog is older or has joint issues.
• Indoor playtime options: On rainy days or when you’re short on time, indoor playtime can be a lifesaver. Fetch, hide-and-seek, or interactive games like puzzle toys can provide mental stimulation and physical activity.
• Safe walking routes: When walking your dog, make sure you’re using safe routes. Avoid busy roads or areas with a lot of foot traffic, especially if your dog is easily startled or prone to pulling on the leash.
• Apartment-friendly exercise: Some dog breeds are naturally more active than others. If you live in an apartment, consider choosing a breed that doesn’t require vigorous exercise. For example, small breeds like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels or larger breeds like Great Danes can be content with moderate exercise and indoor playtime.
• Mental stimulation needs: Don’t forget that mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Provide your dog with interactive toys, teach them new tricks, or enroll them in a dog sports class to keep their minds active and engaged.

Grooming Considerations for Apartment Dogs

When choosing an apartment dog, consider their coat and grooming needs. Some breeds require minimal grooming, while others need regular brushing and professional care to maintain their unique coat styles.

Low-Shedding Breeds

If you’re an apartment dweller with allergies, choosing a low-shedding breed can make a world of difference. These dogs typically produce less dander, which is the main culprit behind allergic reactions.

Consider breeds like the Affenpinscher, Bichon Frise, or Basenji, known for their low-shedding coats. They’re perfect for allergy sufferers and they’re also adaptable to apartment life. With minimal grooming requirements, these dogs make great companions without demanding extensive pet health maintenance.

Regular Grooming

Even low-shedding dog breeds require regular grooming to maintain their coat health. This includes brushing their fur and the occasional trip to a professional groomer. Maintaining a consistent grooming routine is essential for your dog’s well-being and can even help strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend.

When it comes to tools, costs, and frequency, you have options. Basic grooming tools like brushes, combs, and nail clippers are affordable and easy to use at home. You can also opt for professional pet grooming services, which typically offer a range of packages to suit different budgets and grooming needs.

Establishing a routine is key. Regular grooming helps you stay on top of your dog’s coat health and can even help you detect potential skin issues early on. So, whether you choose to groom your dog yourself or enlist the help of a professional, remember to make it a regular part of your dog care routine.

High-Maintenance Coats

While some dogs require minimal grooming, others demand more attention to maintain their luxurious locks. If you’re considering a pooch with a high-maintenance coat, be prepared to invest time and money into their grooming routines. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Routines: Establish a consistent grooming routine with your dog. This may include brushing their coat regularly, trimming their nails, and cleaning their ears.
• Tools and Products: Invest in quality grooming tools and products specifically designed for your dog’s coat type. This could include brushes, combs, shampoos, conditioners, and detanglers.
• Budget: Grooming can be expensive, especially for high-maintenance coats. Factor this into your budget and decide if you’re comfortable with the financial commitment.
• Professional Groomers: Consider seeking the services of professional groomers who’ve the expertise and tools to handle more intricate coat styles and cuts.

Behavioral Considerations for Apartment Dogs

As you consider bringing a dog into your apartment, it’s important to remember that their behaviour will impact your neighbours. Some dog breeds are prone to barking, which can be disruptive, and others may struggle with separation anxiety when left alone.

Barking Behaviour

When choosing a dog for an apartment, it’s important to think about their barking behavior. Some breeds, like Affenpinschers and American Eskimo Dogs, are prone to barking. While this is a natural behavior for dogs, excessive barking can disturb your neighbors. The good news is that with proper training and socialization, you can manage barking behavior effectively.

Select a breed known for being quiet or easily trainable to keep noise levels down. For example, the Basenji is a rare breed that rarely barks, making them an excellent choice for apartment living.

Training Techniques

Training your pooch is all about positive reinforcement and consistency.

Reward-based training, like clicker training, is an effective way to teach your dog good behaviour. Clicker training uses a small device that makes a distinct sound to mark the exact moment your dog does something right, followed by a treat.

This helps your dog associate the sound with a reward, making it a fun and efficient training method.

Crate training is also beneficial, providing your dog with a safe space to relax and helping with potty training.

Socialisation Strategies

Socialization is key to raising a well-adjusted pup.

It’s about exposing your dog to different people, places, and experiences, helping them feel comfortable and confident in various situations.

Start early and be consistent.

Take your puppy on playdates with other dogs and people.

Enroll them in training classes that offer socialization opportunities.

Apartment living means your dog will encounter neighbors and visitors frequently, so it’s important they learn to interact politely and not react fearfully or aggressively.

Apartment Living Trends for Dog Owners

Apartment living is on the rise in Australia, with 1 in 5 households now occupying apartments, marking a notable shift from 1 in 7 households back in 1991. This trend goes hand in hand with a surge in small dog ownership, as urbanites embrace the joys of city living with their furry friends.

Over 2.5 million Australians, or 10.3% of the population, call apartments home, and they’re not alone, as the country boasts 5.3 million dogs. The pandemic played a part in this, with more people seeking the comfort and companionship of pets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)