Living in a small home or an apartment doesn’t mean giving up on your dream of having a dog. Certain breeds would be unsuitable for small spaces, but lots of dogs will not take up too much space and won’t mind not having a garden to run around. Here are 18 of the best dog breeds for small living spaces:
Bichon Frise
These cute dogs weigh around 15 pounds and are playful and affectionate. They have a lot of fur but are hypoallergenic, so it shouldn’t be an issue if you are in a confined space with a Bichon. Their affectionate nature makes them perfect companions for people who live in apartments on their own,
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Classified as toy dogs, Cavaliers are loving dogs known for their calm demeanor. They have moderate energy, so they will need a daily walk but are happy to play indoors the rest of the time.
French Bulldog
According to Voice of America, French bulldogs, or Frenchies as affectionately known, are the most popular dog breed in the U.S. These compact dogs are full of personality but take up very little space. Frenchies are relatively low-maintenance and want nothing more than a cuddle on the sofa after a small amount of exercise.
Italian Greyhound
Unlike other greyhound breeds, Italians do not need much space. They weigh just 8-15 pounds and stand around 13-15 inches. Despite what people may think, these dogs only require short bursts of energy and will be okay roaming around an apartment after daily outdoor play.
Pug
Pugs are known for their loving personalities and low energy levels. At a maximum of 13 inches tall and weighing 14-18 pounds, pugs get too tired from too many walks. They’re happy with short walks and playtime indoors, making them perfect for smaller spaces.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus have an easygoing nature, which means they can adjust to different living situations. These low-shedding dogs are happy with apartment life as long as they receive proper exercise and mental stimulation. Shih Tzu’s are prone to barking without proper attention, which may upset close neighbors.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies are tiny dogs with big personalities. While they have a lot of energy, they are very small and happy indoors as long as they have plenty of toys and are not left alone for too long.
Boston Terrier
These tuxedo-clad dogs are intelligent and eager to please, so as long as they’re well-trained, they will be content in an apartment. Bostons are playful indoors and love to be stimulated by lots of creative games when they go out for a walk. They weigh between 14 and 25 pounds and grow up to 17 inches, which is perfect for small homes.
Havanese
Havanese are a compact breed, typically weighing between 7 and 13 pounds and standing at a dinky 8 to 11 inches. They enjoy daily walks or playtime in a park but are also content with indoor games and cuddling on your lap.
Maltese
While walks and playtime are important, Maltese don’t require extensive exercise routines. Indoor games, short walks, and interactive toys can stimulate them mentally and physically in a smaller living space.
Dachshund
Dachshunds are surprisingly adaptable dogs that enjoy running around a small home or apartment. While extensive exercise routines aren’t necessary, daily walks and opportunities to sniff and explore are important. One thing to be mindful of is that Dachshunds are prone to back problems, so you should take care of them jumping off high furniture.
Brussels Griffon
These little guys are perfectly suited for apartments with limited space, as they typically weigh between 6 and 14 pounds. Unlike other small dogs, they’re not known for excessive barking, making them considerate neighbors in apartment buildings.
Affenpinscher
At 9-11 inches high and weighing under 11 pounds, these furry terriers are lively but won’t cause issues in a small home. Affenpinschers will be playful indoors, so they’re not as chilled as some other small dogs, making them perfect for high-energy adults.
Poodle
Toy and miniature poodles are great for people who want a slightly larger dog but don’t want to make their small home too messy. Their curly hair doesn’t shed as much as other dogs and shouldn’t cause an issue when renting a property. They need to be walked regularly to get some stimulation throughout the day, but they will settle easily once they have released some energy.
Scottish Terrier
While their energy level is moderate, Scottish Terriers were bred for hunting and have a stubborn streak. While they can adapt to apartments, they must be trained well and exercised daily so they do not get bored and destructive.
West Highland White Terrier
Westies can be wonderful companions for apartment dwellers. Their small size, moderate exercise needs, low shedding coats, and relatively quiet nature make them popular. With proper care, training, and attention to their exercise and mental stimulation needs, a Westie can be a loving and energetic addition to your small-space family.
Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzers are known for their intelligence and eagerness to please. They can thrive in apartments if their exercise and mental stimulation needs are met. Their playful personalities bring joy to any home but are ideal for people in small apartments who want a larger dog.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are the smallest breed but are feisty and can challenge you. They are, however, surprisingly adaptable and, with good training, will be content with indoor playtime and short walks as long as they get a lot of love in between.
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