The Best Dogs for Apartments or Condos

Written by
Jenna Stregowski, RVT
Jenna Stregowski, RVT, has more than 20 years of experience working in veterinary medicine and has been writing about pet care for the last decade.
Learn about The Spruce Pets' Editorial Process
Jenna Stregowski, RVT
Updated 02/21/20
dog sitting in living room

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If you live in an apartment, you might debate getting a dog. But many dogs can thrive in small homes. Look for small to medium breeds, though certain large breeds aren't out of the question. Perhaps more importantly, select a breed that is generally quiet and has low to medium energy. Here are 10 of the best dogs for apartments.

Tip

Any dog—regardless of breed—can become bored in a small space, leading to undesirable behaviors. So keep your dog exercised, and try puzzle games or toys for mental stimulation.

  • 01 of 10

    Basset Hound

    basset hound dogs for apartments
    Nick Noyas / EyeEm / Getty Images

    The basset hound is typically a low-key dog. Although most hounds are known to bay, or howl, most bassets bay less than the average hound. The basset is moderately energetic but tends to get less active with age. Most enjoy a daily walk but don't need a ton of exercise.

    Breed Overview

    Height: Up to 15 inches

    Weight: 40 to 65 pounds

    Physical Characteristics: Long ears; low body; colors include black, brown, white, and more

  • 02 of 10

    Bichon Frise

    A Bichon Frise on a chair

    The Spruce / Kevin Norris

    Bichons are a favorite among small-dog enthusiasts. They're typically loyal and happy dogs with a medium energy level. Although many small dogs are known to be "yippy" barkers, the bichon doesn't tend to be that noisy. Daily play sessions and walks should be enough to fulfill a bichon's exercise needs.

    Breed Overview

    Height: 10 to 12 inches

    Weight: 12 to 18 pounds

    Physical Characteristics: Alert eyes; soft coat; colors include white, white and apricot, and white and cream

  • 03 of 10

    Bulldog

    Bulldog dogs for apartments
    Scott Van Dyke / Getty Images

    Medium-sized bulldogs have a moderate energy level. Regular exercise is necessary, but the breed has a pretty low tolerance for activity. A daily walk or two and some games are usually enough. Bulldogs are generally loyal, jovial companions. They're typically fairly quiet—as long as you don't mind some snoring.

    Breed Overview

    Height: 14 to 15 inches

    Weight: 40 to 50 pounds

    Physical Characteristics: Thick-set body; short face; colors include fawn, red, white, brindle, and more

  • 04 of 10

    Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

    Cavalier King Charles Spaniel dogs for apartments
    Monika Katic / EyeEm / Getty Images

    The Cavalier King Charles spaniel is typically upbeat and jovial, yet calm and gentle. It has a medium energy level, benefitting from daily walks and games. But what it really thrives on is your companionship. This dog can be moderately vocal but also is happy to quietly snuggle on the couch.

    Breed Overview

    Height: 12 to 13 inches

    Weight: 13 to 18 pounds

    Physical Characteristics: Medium-length, silky coat; colors include black and tan, black and white, and more

    Continue to 5 of 10 below.
  • 05 of 10

    Chihuahua

    chihuahua dogs for apartments
    Tomoaki Takahashi / Getty Images

    Chihuahuas pack lots of personality into a tiny frame. The breed has a medium to high energy level, requiring daily walks and play, but its petite size means a small apartment is adequate space. Some Chihuahuas can be a bit vocal, especially when they hear potential intruders, but training can help with this.

    Breed Overview

    Height: 5 to 8 inches

    Weight: Up to 6 pounds

    Physical Characteristics: Alert expression; smooth or long coat; colors include black, tan, and more

  • 06 of 10

    Chinese Crested

    chinese crested dogs for apartments
    Martine Roch/Getty Images

    The Chinese crested tends to be alert and affectionate, enjoying spending time with its family. Their small size and medium energy level make these dogs another great option for apartments. And despite their delicate appearance, they are strong athletes. Dog sports and puzzle games are ideal to exercise their minds and bodies.

    Breed Overview

    Height: 11 to 13 inches

    Weight: 8 to 12 pounds

    Physical Characteristics: Fur on head, feet, and tail (hairless); soft, silky coat (powderpuff); colors include black, blue, cream, and more

  • 07 of 10

    Greyhound

    A greyhound on a sofa

    The Spruce / Kevin Norris

    They might be known for racing, but greyhounds are couch potatoes at heart. Although they do enjoy a good run, they don't have enough endurance to need more than daily walks. These dogs tend to be extremely affectionate and might loudly complain when left alone. But training for separation anxiety can help.

    Breed Overview

    Height: 27 to 30 inches

    Weight: 60 to 70 pounds

    Physical Characteristics: Long, narrow body; short coat; colors include black, blue, red, white, and more

  • 08 of 10

    Maltese

    Maltese dogs for apartments
    Oliver Byunggyu Woo / EyeEm / Getty Images

    Playful yet gentle, the Maltese is a delight. It only requires basic daily exercise, including a walk or two and playtime. In addition, the breed is less likely to be vocal compared to many other small dogs. It loves nothing more than sitting in your lap and showering you with affection.

    Breed Overview

    Height: 7 to 9 inches

    Weight: Up to 7 pounds

    Physical Characteristics: Dark, alert eyes; white coat

    Continue to 9 of 10 below.
  • 09 of 10

    Poodle

    Poodle dogs for apartments
    Teppei Kaku / EyeEm / Getty Images

    Poodles of all sizes (toy, miniature, and standard) can do well in apartments. These dogs are intelligent and have moderate to high energy levels. Some poodles might need extra exercise to keep them happy in a small home. But fortunately, they tend to be disciplined and obedient with proper training.

    Breed Overview

    Height: Standard: over 15 inches; miniature: 10 to 15 inches; toy: up to 10 inches

    Weight: Standard: 40 to 70 pounds; miniature: 10 to 15 pounds; toy: 4 to 6 pounds

    Physical Characteristics: Curly, dense coat; colors include white, apricot, black, brown, and more

  • 10 of 10

    Shih Tzu

    A shih tzu puppy

    The Spruce / Kevin Norris

    The Shih Tzu is a happy, affectionate, and playful little dog that needs no more than basic daily exercise and general training. They tend to become closely bonded with their favorite humans. But if you must leave them at home, they'll likely be happily relaxing while they await your return.

    Breed Overview

    Height: 9 to 11 inches

    Weight: 9 to 16 pounds

    Physical Characteristics: Long, flowing coat; colors include black, blue, brindle, gold, liver, silver, red, and more