If you live in a small apartment, you’ve probably wondered: Can I really have a low-maintenance dog breed here without losing my mind or my security deposit? The answer? Absolutely. You just need the right kind of pup.
Turns out, more than 70% of renters in urban areas prefer pet dogs. It’s not just about size. It’s about lifestyle. You want the best dog that fits into your daily routine and needs little maintenance, and requires minimal grooming. You definitely want to avoid the one who needs a backyard, constant grooming appointments, or endless hours at the park.
The good news? There are some incredible low-maintenance dog breeds and smartest breeds out there that don’t ask for much, but give so much in return. They’re sweet, smart, chill (most of the time), and they don’t turn your apartment into a fur-filled chaos zone.
Low-Maintenance Apartment Dog Breeds
1. Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are basically your ideal roommate: fun, polite, emotionally intelligent, and down for anything. They don’t need a ton of space or long runs; just short walks and some playtime indoors are enough.
They’re the kind of dog breed that’ll sit with you during your Netflix binge and be game for a quick zoomie session when you’re feeling energetic.
They do best on quality dry kibble with a bit of fiber. And yes, they will look at you with those big eyes to try and score an extra treat, so keep portions in check. The best part? They read the room. If you’re having a lazy day, so are they.
If you’re up and dancing in the kitchen, they’re there wagging along. They are surprisingly easy to handle and have a good energy level.
2. French Bulldog
Every single one of them has quirks, expressions, and moods that feel more like a roommate than a pet. Originally bred in 19th-century France to keep lace workers company, these dogs were born to thrive in close quarters.
Whether it’s a high-rise in Manhattan or a cozy studio in Austin, if there’s a soft couch and a human nearby, a Frenchie is living their best life.
They’re your right dog that’s calm, loving, and totally chill until they’re not. Frenchies are also incredibly affectionate and the easiest dog breed. You might ask them to sit, and they’ll look at you like, “Why though?”
They’re not trying to be difficult, they just have opinions and they’re not afraid to share them. That’s part of having great companions.
As far as regular exercise goes, they’re on the low-key side. A short stroll, maybe a little sniff around the block, and they’re good. No need for long hikes or endless games of fetch. Honestly, most Frenchies would rather lounge on a blanket and supervise you from the comfort of a sunbeam.
3. Greyhound
It’s true that most people hear Greyhound and instantly think of high-energy, hypoallergenic dogs and long legs zooming around a track. But the reality? This dog breed is the king and queen of chilling out.
Indoors, they’re about as mellow as it gets. Purina says that after a quick burst of speed, they’re more than happy to spend the next 23 hours curled up in a sun patch or stretched out on your couch like royalty.
Greyhounds make surprisingly great apartment dogs. They’re quiet, rarely bark, and they don’t need a ton of space to be happy, and they are low maintenance dog breed. What they do need is a cozy spot to rest, a soft surface to protect their lean frames, and a bit of your time and affection. Note that they aren’t couch potatoes, but sometimes become.
Their grooming needs? Basically nothing. That sleek, short coat sheds very little, and a once-a-week brush is more than enough to keep it looking smooth. They also don’t come with that classic “dog smell,” which is a nice bonus for apartment dwellers, according to AKC.
4. Basset Hound
There’s something about a Basset Hound that just makes you smile. Maybe it’s the long ears that flap when they walk, or the droopy, soulful eyes that always look a little concerned, or maybe it’s the way they plod through life like they’ve got nowhere to be. They’re happy to be by your side.
Hills Pet notes that these medium-sized dogs are laid-back in every sense. They’re not in a rush. They’re not going to jump on your counters or sprint across your apartment. This makes them the perfect match for anyone who loves slow mornings, cozy evenings, and just a little peace and quiet.
Don’t confuse chill with boring. Basset Hounds are hilarious. Their faces are expressive, their snoring is Olympic-level, and when they decide to get up to mischief, they do it with a kind of that’s almost. You’ll catch them staring at the treat jar like it betrayed them by being closed.
5. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are walking proof that big things really do come in small packages. These little cuties might weigh less than a bag of sugar, but they carry themselves like lion-hearted warriors. With their heads held high and their confidence even higher, Chihuahuas move through the world like they own it.
Under all that sass and swagger is a dog who just wants to be close. Like, real close. On your lap, under your blanket, zipped inside your hoodie, kind of close.
They are fiercely loyal sometimes to one person in particular, and their love is intense, focused, and forever. Once a Chihuahua picks you, it’s game over. You’re their human, that’s it. These are some of the best dog breeds that pet parents love.
They’re great for apartment living, and they don’t take up too much space. Their needs are very few, and they need minimal grooming. A few short walks, some indoor play, and lots of affection will keep them happy.
6. Beagle
Living with a small dog like a Beagle is just sharing your space with an adorable, floppy-eared detective and low maintenance breed who always has a case to solve. From the moment they wake up, their nose is in overdrive.
They sniff the couch cushions and check out your shoes. They also scent trails across the living room like they’re tracking international criminals. It’s honestly hilarious and kind of heart-melting at the same time.
They don’t just use their nose for the thrill of the chase, they use it to connect with the world. It’s how they think, how they learn, how they play. So if you bring an active Beagle into your small space, expect a lot of sniff breaks on walks and the occasional cute stares.
Beagles are friendly. Like, wildly friendly. They’ll greet strangers like long-lost cousins and happily wiggle their way into the heart of every neighbor, mail carrier, and toddler. They’re especially great for families or pet parents who just want an affectionate dog who’s always down for whatever they’re doing, even if it’s just watching TV with a sock in their mouth.
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
If you’ve ever wanted a dog that feels like a living, breathing hug that comes with soft ears and big eyes, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is it. It’s hard not to melt just looking at them. What makes this breed truly special isn’t just how adorable they are but the way they make you feel.
These dogs were literally bred to be companions. Not hunters, not guard dogs, only companions. And they’ve taken that job seriously for generations. A Cavalier will follow you from room to room, not out of separation anxiety, but out of genuine interest.
If you work from home or spend a lot of time indoors, they’ll become part of your daily rhythm. They’ll silently curl up beside you and rest their head on your lap like they know. Because somehow, they always do. That’s why they’re often used as therapy dogs, they are high-energy dogs.
They have silky, feathered coats that make them perfect. They don’t require a full-on salon schedule, but you will have to take care of their weekly brushing.
Conclusion
You want little pups that aren’t low-energy dogs and can be with you all the time, right? Here we outlined some of the best low-maintenance dogs for busy owners that you can have as lap dogs. All you need is regular brushing and taking care of their minimal exercise so they stay fit and active. Daily exercise and short walks can help you make a great connection with your new pet.
You, as a busy pet parent or a new owner, want to choose the best dog breed that fits your schedule and connects with you in no time. That’s why it’s important to always check the information before you pick your favorite pet.
Some of the major factors include their grooming routine, their strengths, their diet, and their temperament. You must see which dog will make you stay happy and make sure you feel the warmth.
Also, before getting your new pet home, learn a little about how to deal with and take care of the pet so that you never get stuck or regret it.
