Think you need to own a lavish yard to keep a dog happy? While most dogs prefer open living spaces, there are dogs out there who don’t mind cozying up in smaller homes and apartments.
If you live in an apartment and want a canine companion to cuddle with, don’t pout because we’ve whipped up this guide to the best medium dogs, just for you.
Best Medium Dog Breeds for Apartments
1. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs, also nicknamed ‘Frenchies’, are one of the go-to doggos for apartment owners. They’re friendly and sociable, and the perfect size for smaller spaces. With apartment living becoming more common day by day, there’s a reason you see these canines every day.
This snotty pup stands only 11 to 13 inches; you can grab it up and cuddle on the couch while watching your favorite series. Their weight is mostly 16 to 28 pounds. This bundle of joy is perfect due to its compact size and a personality that melts the hearts of its owners.
These balls of energy are curious and watchful, but not very noisy. So, while they’ll want to investigate strange sounds, you won’t have to worry about loud barks every time they see a stranger.
This dog breed can be quite expensive and comes with a lot of health concerns. So, make sure to do a budget audit before adopting a Frenchie.
2. Basenji
Basenji is another popular dog breed suitable for apartment life. These are beautiful, small to medium dogs with a distinctive curled tail and wrinkly forehead. Great for apartment living, these dogs are lovely companions with a fun-loving nature.
Male Basenjis can be up to 17 inches tall, and females can go up to 16. Their weights are 22-26 pounds for males, and 20-24 pounds for females. Their balanced size isn’t the only thing that makes them perfect pets for the apartment lifestyle. The best thing about Basenji; they are all cuteness, no bark.
Basenji will happily adapt to your small or medium living space. Just give them a window to look out of. They have a surplus amount of energy, so some space for them to play would be nice. Taking them out for some exercise and playtime is also a good idea.
3. English Cocker Spaniel
English Cocker Spaniels are medium-sized dogs with a jovial personality, but don’t mind calm moments at home. Quite a popular choice for the apartment lifestyle, these dogs are full of energy and love to keep their owners happy.
A breed of many qualities, English Cocker Spaniels are loyal as family pets. Their ability to adapt makes them the perfect companions for apartment dwellers.
Their size can reach from 15 to 17 inches, and their weight can be around 26 to 35 pounds. They are active dogs, full of energy, so taking them on walks outside and exercise sessions will keep them happy. Their thick coats need regular grooming as they tend to be shedders.
4. Boston Terrier
These compact, snouty-nosed companions will keep your apartment life full of life. Boston Terriers are very loyal and loving dogs who love to form a bond with their humans. They get along well with children and strangers; like all dogs, watching them around children is important.
These pups can be up to 25 pounds heavy and up to 17 inches in height. Their coat tends to be smooth and fine; minimal grooming and occasional baths will do the trick.
Their activity needs vary from dog to dog. PetMD suggests getting them regular exercise to help them cool off some of the excess energy. Also, playing catch is something they will enjoy a lot. These are one of the quiet breeds, so you won’t get any noise complaints from the neighborhood.
5. Whippet
Whippets are a medium-sized but sleek and slim dog breed. They are quite suitable pets for apartment dwellers as long as they’re getting their daily sprint sessions. They’re athletic and high-energy dogs who love to run and go after prey.
This breed stands 18 to 22 inches tall, with a weight ranging from 25 to 40 pounds. If you want an apartment-friendly dog that’s not completely pixie-sized, this is the right dog for you.
They’re generally healthy and high-energy dogs, but they’re skinnier than other breeds, so you can introduce a healthy weight formula after talking to a vet. The shedding is occasional, and you’ll need some brushing to deal with it off and on.
Their temperament can vary; agile and active when sporting, they can be quiet company at home. Some daily exercise is important for these canines.
6. Basset Hound
Another perfect choice for apartment dwellers, these medium-sized pups are laid-back and chill dogs. They don’t mind the company of kids and other animals. So, if you want a peace-maintaining little pet that can adapt to apartment living as well, this one’s the right pet for you.
Male Bassets can stand up to 14 inches tall, while females can be up to 13 inches in height. Bassets are long-faced, droopy-eyed dogs with wrinkly bodies. Very cuddle-worthy and huggable indeed. These pups love human companionship and are quite people-oriented. They can get excited every time there’s someone at the door; expect some barking from these dogs, though.
Though it has a short coat that sheds moderately, as with any dog, grooming your Basset matters a lot. Weekly brushing and monthly bathing will keep its beautiful, glossy coat in the best condition.
Bassets are prone to obesity, so plan their meals carefully after talking to a pet nutritionist. Daily walks and exercise aren’t just good, they’re great for these pups.
7. Clumber Spaniel
These medium-sized, cuddly dogs are another good fit for apartment living. These loyal dogs see their owners as the center of their worlds and will adapt happily to different kinds of living environments. So, if you want a faithful bestie to lounge next to you on the sofa, get a Clumber Spaniel.
These fluffy dogs can be 17 to 20 inches in height. Their weights can range between 55-85 pounds. Admit it, you already want them curled up next to you so you can wrap them in a big hug. They are droolers because their mouth is not capable of holding all the saliva they produce.
Their lavish, thick, and long coat needs regular grooming to minimize shedding. Make daily brushing the mantra and give them regular baths with good dog shampoos to keep their hair shining and clean.
They are energy balls, and depriving them of regular exercise is bad owner protocol. Keep them out on daily walks to keep them fit and fabulous.
Conclusion
This was our review of the best medium dogs to help you decide on adoption. Whether you live in an apartment in the city or a smaller house in a suburban area, these doggos will lounge up in your living space. Two other fabulous dogs for apartments are the Shih Tzu and the Great Dane.
