In this article:
- Pugs
- Beagles
- Petit Basset Griffon Vendeens
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
- Boston Terriers
- Pugs
- Basenjis
- French Bulldogs
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
- Bolognese
- English Bulldogs
- Basset Hounds
- French Bulldogs
- Pugs
- Japanese Chins
- Jack Russell Terriers
- Miniature Pinschers
- Schipperkes
- Pembroke Welsh Corgis
- Portuguese Water Dogs
- Basset Hounds
- Chihuahuas
- Cardigan Welsh Corgis
- Biewer Terriers
- Lhasa Apso
Dogs for People with Allergies
- American Hairless Terriers
- Bichon Frise
- Chinese Crested
- Poodles
- Affenpinschers
- Shih Tzus
- Maltese
- Miniature Schnauzers
- Yorkshire Terriers
While it can be argued that all dogs are the best dogs, there is the perfect dog out there for you. If you live in a pet-friendly apartment community, and especially if you work from home, you might be considering a four-legged companion.
First, do your research. Even if your apartment is pet-friendly, you’ll want to review your lease to read up on the pet policy. You might find breed restrictions, weight restrictions, a limit to the number of pets you can have, and extra fees for pets (including a pet deposit and pet rent). Make sure you’ve investigated this fully before you start looking at dogs. Also, remember that getting a dog is a long-term commitment. If you aren’t ready to care for another living creature for the next 10-18 (or more) years, then don’t get a dog.
Now that you know your parameters, what would make a good apartment dog for you? It depends on you, your lifestyle, and your cleaning preferences. Do you want a pet that sits on the couch with you all day, or one that enjoys your daily three-mile jog? Do you want a dog that alerts you when someone is outside your door, or do you prefer a quieter dog? Will dog hair on your furniture distress you? Do you suffer from allergies? The best dog for you is on this list somewhere, so let’s do some digging.
Friendly Dog Breeds
Good-natured, outgoing dogs are ideal for apartment living. Easy-going dogs tend to do better with children and other pets, as well. While there are many large, friendly breeds (such as Bernese mountain dogs, great Danes, golden retrievers, and Irish setters), the ones below are small to medium in size, which makes them more likely to fit within size restrictions of many pet-friendly apartment communities.
Pugs
To a pug, there is no such thing as a stranger, just ear-scratchers they haven’t met yet. They are friendly and comical. Because they are so non-aggressive, they are great with children and other animals. Pugs tend to be sweet-natured and extremely gentle. They can also be rather clingy, giving them the nickname “little shadow.” If you don’t want a constant companion, the pug might not be right for you.
Beagles
Snoopy's a beagle! If that's not enough, Snoopies — I mean beagles — are great little dogs. They are fun-loving, affectionate, and mischievous. Beagles are great with children and make excellent companions, but they are prone to separation anxiety and may get into mischief if left unattended.
Petit Basset Griffon Vendeens
Nicknamed the “happy breed” and often abbreviated as PBGVs, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen is sweet, lively, and always has a wagging tail. They like to howl and will “sing” along with you or their favorite song. They have a strong hunting instinct, so it’s a good idea to keep your PBGV on a leash when you are on walks or out in an open area.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
Affectionate, sweet, kid-friendly, and friendly toward strangers and other pets — there’s a reason the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is such a popular little dog. They are also intelligent and playful, making them a great friendly-dog option.
Boston Terriers
Boston terriers are not actually part of the AKC’s terrier group. Instead, they are part of the “non-sporting” group. They earned the nickname “America’s Gentleman” because of their snazzy black-and-white coat that resembles a tuxedo. Boston terriers are friendly little dogs with a sense of humor. This dog is sturdy, portable, and irresistible with big, round eyes and pointy ears.
Quiet Dog Breeds
All dogs bark. It’s how they communicate, and we love that about them. But if you are concerned about a barking dog disturbing your neighbors, there are some breeds that tend to bark a little less than other dog breeds. Here are a few:
Pugs
Since they’re usually snoring on the sofa, pugs typically don’t bark much unless they are distressed or very hungry (if you aren’t familiar with pugs, they are always hungry).
Basenjis
Basenjis are nicknamed the “barkless dog,” but that doesn’t mean basenjis are completely quiet. They can yodel and howl if the mood strikes them. But for the most part, basenjis are considered one of the quietest dog breeds.
French Bulldogs
These bat-eared beauties are similar in temperament to a pug. Meaning, it just takes too much effort to bark at stuff. Frenchies are loyal, intelligent, and sturdy, making them a great choice if you have children.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are loving and docile. They’re typically quiet dogs who become very attached to their owners. They will feel distressed if left alone for very long (more than a couple of hours). If you live in a busy area, be aware: they instinctively chase moving things (like vehicles), so it’s best to keep your cavalier on a leash when walking.
Bolognese
While they share a name with a sauce, the Bolognese is far from saucy. This sweet little dog tends to be very even-tempered and isn’t prone to barking. Bolognese are known as highly intelligent dogs that can be quite crafty. This is a lap dog who will get depressed if left alone all day. But if you are looking for a sweet, smart dog who will ace agility training, this is your dog.
Lazy Dog Breeds
If your idea of exercise is exactly that — an idea you have from time to time — then a lazy dog breed may be your ideal companion. The dogs below will be happy with a short walk followed by a long afternoon of napping on the couch.
English Bulldogs
If you think “lazy dog,” the image of an English bulldog might quickly come to mind. English bulldogs are short and stout, often weighing about 50 pounds. They often have difficulty breathing and their small legs aren’t ideal for long walks, but try to take your bulldog for a short walk every day. This dog is happiest snuggled next to you as you binge-watch reality TV shows.
Basset Hounds
With its big body and tiny legs — not to mention ears that practically touch the ground — the basset hound isn’t an ideal jogging partner. While they might prefer to nap, basset hounds were bred for hunting. If they pick up a scent, they’ll likely follow it, so keep them leashed when you are out walking. They may have short legs, but they can get away from you quickly when on the hunt.
French Bulldogs
It takes effort to do things like bark and walk, and the Frenchie might not do much of either. While your French bulldog might resist your efforts, it’s a good idea to get this dog out for regular walks because they tend to put on weight rather quickly.
Pugs
They are friendly, quiet, and lazy. What’s not to love about a pug? This breed loves to eat and nap, so try to get your pug to exercise a little every day. Excess weight gain on a pug can cause health and breathing issues.
Japanese Chins
While not as lazy as the dogs above, the Japanese Chin is a quiet, noble little dog with a long history as a lap dog. Japanese Chins are often described as “cat-like” because they leap and climb with graceful ease. Japanese chins are intelligent and lively, but they don’t require much exercise. These dogs strike a nice balance between playful and calm.
Active Dog Breeds
If you crave a jogging or hiking partner, or if you just like going to the park and throwing a Frisbee around, you’ll probably prefer a dog that’s a little more active. Here are some terrific, high-energy dogs.
Jack Russell Terriers
A Jack Russell terrier is small, compact, and full of energy. Bred for fox hunting in England, the Jack Russell is fearless and highly intelligent. This dog can be a bit of a handful (read: rowdy) so read up on this breed before getting a Jack Russell. If you have the energy to keep up with a Jack Russell, they are sweet and loyal little dogs.
Miniature Pinschers
According to the AKC, the “min pin” is the “King of Toys.” Filled with personality and spirit, they are not (contrary to popular belief) tiny Doberman Pinschers. The min pin isn’t a scaled-down version of any breed. This personality-filled little heart-stealer is several centuries old — even older than the Doberman Pinscher. With a high-stepping gait and a huge personality, min pins are highly intelligent and fearless. Min pins are loyal, comedians, and very active.
Schipperkes
The lovable schipperke is full of personality and pep. So much so that this little dog should get at least a half hour of exercise every day. Topping out at about 16 pounds, the schipperke is highly intelligent and will need lots of activities. They were bred to hunt vermin aboard barges (schipperke means “little captain” in Flemish), so they have a high prey drive.
Pembroke Welsh Corgis
As a herding dog, the Pembroke Welsh corgi will need a lot of exercise, so don’t let those little legs fool you. This dog is smart, athletic, and adorable. The AKC lists the Pembroke Welsh corgi as “one of the world’s most popular herding breeds.”
Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese water dog is a medium-sized dog, topping out at about 60 pounds. If your apartment community allows medium-sized dogs and you live near a body of water, this dog loves to swim. They were bred to help fishermen and could be trained to herd fish into nets. This dog is highly intelligent and needs daily activity. If your adventures include hiking and swimming, you might want a Portuguese water dog.
Independent Dog Breeds
If you work outside of the home but still want a dog, there are some breeds that won’t mind you being gone as much as other breeds. That said, all dogs want your attention, so try and get home during lunch or hire a dog-walker to take them out during the day.
Basset Hounds
Because they are both lazy and independent, a basset hound will likely just sleep until you get home.
Chihuahuas
The small but mighty Chihuahua won’t mind you leaving during the day. Averaging about five pounds, the Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed, but they have huge personalities. They are also independent and intelligent. Chihuahuas tend to do better in pairs, so consider getting two. They’ll keep each other company while you’re at work, reducing the chance that your Chihuahua will bark out of sheer boredom while you are away. Chihuahuas bark at everything, so keep that in mind when considering a Chihuahua for your apartment. They can also be quite territorial.
Cardigan Welsh Corgis
Cardigan welsh corgis were bred to herd cattle. Their small stature helped them to dodge cow kicks. They are smart, active, and independent. While they won’t mind you being gone during the day, you might want to have someone walk them for you since they are so active. They enjoy being outside and are known for their speed and agility. Cardigans like to bark. A lot. They are known as vocal dogs who will bark at everything, so keep that in mind if you’re considering a cardigan.
Biewer Terriers
If you are looking for a tiny ball of fluff, the Biewer terrier (pronounced like beaver) is a smart little dog that ranges from four to eight pounds. They don’t bark much, and they are both friendly and independent. Biewer terriers were bred from Yorkshire terriers in the 1970s and 1980s, so they are new on the scene and are still rather rare. They won’t mind you going to work, but don’t leave your Biewer terrier alone for too long. Without enough exercise, they might start digging or chewing.
Lhasa Apso
Lhasa apsos were bred as royal guards. They are tough, independent, and bold. They also tend to be a little bit stubborn. Lhasa apsos aren’t big on barking, so they make great apartment pets. Topping out at about 18 pounds, they are smaller dogs but they are loyal and protective. They’re also very active, so while they tolerate being left alone quite well, you’ll want to make sure they get plenty of exercise.
Dogs for People with Allergies
There’s no such thing as a 100 percent hypoallergenic dog, but there are some breeds that are better tolerated than others. If you have allergies but want a dog, these breeds tend to have less dander (what most people are allergic to). Still, be sure to vacuum frequently, groom your pet often, and wash your pet’s bed regularly to help remove allergens from your apartment.
American Hairless Terriers
As the nation’s only indigenous hairless breed, the American hairless terrier hails from Louisiana and is a descendant of the rat terrier. Small, proud, and mighty, you won’t have to worry too much about your allergies with this dog. Due to their lack of a coat, this dog breed isn’t suited to cold temperatures (consider putting yours in a sweater when the temperature dips). They are smart, easily trained, and very energetic.
Bichon Frise
While this dog looks like a little marshmallow, the bichon frise is non-shedding and is considered a great dog for people with allergies. These dogs have huge personalities and are often described as comical. The bichon is alert, curious, and very friendly, making them a great choice for those with children. Since they don’t shed but they have such a thick, luxurious coat, they will need regular trips to a groomer or their fur will get matted.
Chinese Crested
While often (quite unfairly) showing up on “ugliest dog” lists, the Chinese crested is a wonderful breed. In addition to being hypoallergenic, they are sweet-natured, highly intelligent, kid-friendly, and easy to train. All of that, and they look great in sweaters! This dog does better in warm climates. (And no, they do not need sunblock.)
Poodles
Undeniably one of the most intelligent dog breeds, there’s much to love about the elegant poodle. They are sweet, loyal dogs who do great with kids. They were bred as water retrievers (their name means splash in the water), and they are non-shedding. The poodle even comes in three sizes! Small, medium, and large. Or, rather, toy, miniature, and standard. Don’t let your poodle get bored! While known for his snazzy hairdo, this dog is highly intelligent and needs activities or you may find this dog destroying things to keep busy. As for that snazzy hairdo, it had a purpose — it kept their coat from getting snagged on things in the water while protecting vital organs and joints from the cold.
Affenpinschers
Known as a little comedian, the affenpinscher is an adventurous, fun-loving little dog who is considered hypoallergenic — but this breed does shed. Affenpinschers are highly intelligent and great with kids.
Shih Tzus
A pretty dog who also tends to be a bit lazy, shih tzus are low-shedding and are considered a hypoallergenic dog breed. They are lap dogs in every way, and just want to curl up in your lap while you watch TV and look adorable. If you want a cute, lazy, hypoallergenic dog, the shih tzu is a great dog for you.
Low-Shedding Dog Breeds
Many of the dogs on the hypoallergenic list also make the low-shedding list: Poodles, bichon frises, and Chinese crested. Other low-shedding dogs include:
Maltese
At barely seven pounds, the Maltese is a tiny, fearless, and sweet little dog. While they are low-shedding and hypoallergenic, the Maltese has a floor-length coat that will need daily brushing.
Miniature Schnauzers
Miniature schnauzers have an undercoat that catches loose hair, so this dog barely sheds. Miniature schnauzers make great apartment dogs, but they do need to be groomed regularly. Miniature schnauzers are great with kids, as well.
Yorkshire Terriers
The small but majestic Yorkie tops out at seven pounds and has a floor-length coat of silky fur that is more like human hair. They don’t lose their hair any more than you do, so you might find a strand or two now and then. The long, flowing mane tangles easily, so unless you plan to “show” your Yorkie, it’s best to keep the hair in a puppy cut (your groomer will do this). They are typically sweet, lovable, and curious little dogs.
While every dog is different with their own personalities, these general qualities should help you figure out which dog suits you best. This list isn’t comprehensive. There are many more amazing dog breeds out there, not to mention a variety of terrific mixed breeds, so be sure to do some research. After you decide which type of dog you are looking for, consider adopting your pet.
