Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you have to give up the dream of having a dog. With the right breed, even the coziest spaces can become a haven for both you and your four-legged companion. While many assume that small dogs are always the best match for apartments, temperament, noise level, and energy needs play just as important a role as size.
Some larger breeds can adapt well to apartment living thanks to their laid-back nature, but certain small dog breeds are especially suited to compact homes. These pint-sized pups often thrive with a mix of indoor play and short daily walks. Plus, they’re typically easier to carry, clean up after, and accommodate within limited square footage. However, it’s essential to pick a breed that’s not prone to excessive barking and knows how to keep its cool around neighbors and guests.
This article highlights the best small dog breeds for apartment living, ones that combine manageable energy, good manners, and adaptability to shared spaces like elevators and stairwells.
Best Small Dog Breeds For Apartments
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
With their affectionate personality and calm demeanor, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is the best dog for apartment dwellers. Small in size, standing about 12 to 13 inches tall and weighing between 13 to 18 pounds, these dogs blend seamlessly into compact living spaces.
Their quiet nature makes them considerate neighbors, while their sociable spirit helps them adapt easily to shared environments like elevators and hallways.
They are well-behaved dogs. PetMD describes the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel as a devoted and caring companion. Cavaliers enjoy human companionship and are well-suited to both individuals and families.
Care Needs
Cavaliers thrive on a balanced, AAFCO-compliant diet tailored for small breeds, as smaller kibble aids digestion. They require only moderate exercise, two 20- to 30-minute walks daily keep them happy and healthy.
Though gentle and eager to please, they benefit from consistent company and can become lonely if left alone for extended periods.
Regular grooming is needed to maintain their long, silky coats, and while they’re not excessive barkers, they may vocalize when excited or when someone approaches the door.
Fun Fact: This breed was named after King Charles I and his son, who adored these dogs so much they reportedly took them to Parliament.
2. Havanese
Originating from Cuba, this small breed is part of the toy breed group and thrives in cozy living spaces as long as they’re near their favorite humans.
Known for their affectionate and social personalities, Havanese dogs enjoy spending time with family and interacting with other pets. Hills Pet reports that Havanese are cheerful and loving dogs.
Their moderate energy level makes them ideal for daily walks and indoor play, which helps channel their lively spirit without requiring a large yard.
Care Needs
With a long, silky double coat that feels like fine silk, these medium energy dogs require regular grooming,and brushing three or more times a week is essential to prevent matting. While they don’t need trimming, occasional professional grooming helps maintain their elegant appearance.
These intelligent pups respond well to positive reinforcement during training, though they can be slightly stubborn. Socialization from an early age helps curb shyness with strangers.
Havanese should not be left alone for long periods, as they crave constant companionship and can become vocal or anxious when lonely.
Fun Fact: Venus Williams owns a Havanese named “Harry”, a testament to the breed’s charm and celebrity appeal.
3. Shih Tzu
They have a cuddly build and an affectionate personality. WebMD reports that the Shih Tzu is known for its kind, sociable, and fun-loving personality. Weighing between 8 to 16 pounds and standing just under a foot tall, these small companions thrive in cozy spaces.
Their gentle temperament and low noise levels make them ideal for shared environments where neighbors are close. Known for their loyalty and charm, Shih Tzus love being near their humans, whether it’s lounging on the couch or strolling through the neighborhood.
Care Needs
Shih Tzus require consistent grooming to maintain their iconic silky coats. Daily brushing is essential to prevent tangles, especially in their double coat and facial hair. Bathing every 3 to 4 weeks and routine cleaning of their eye area keeps them looking and feeling fresh.
Their teeth should be brushed at least three times a week due to their tendency for dental issues. Despite their modest energy, they benefit from a daily walk and interactive indoor play to stay fit and happy.
Fun Fact: The breed’s name comes from the Chinese word for “lion,” and they are believed to descend from a mix of Lhasa Apso and Pekingese.
4. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua, the tiniest officially recognized dog breed, gets its name from the Mexican state of Chihuahua, where it was first identified in the mid-1800s, as per Britannica.
With some individuals weighing as little as two pounds and standing just six inches tall, they require minimal space and adapt effortlessly to compact environments.
Their love of snuggling makes them affectionate companions, while their alert nature keeps them engaged with their surroundings. Though they have a reputation for being yappy, many Chihuahuas are surprisingly quiet and enjoy lounging in their owner’s lap.
Care Needs
Despite their size, Chihuahuas need regular physical and mental activity. Their exercise needs can easily be met within an apartment or a small yard through short walks and indoor play.
Owners should be cautious, as their small stature and fragile skull make them prone to injury, especially around larger pets or in unsafe environments.
Because they get cold easily, sweaters or heated beds are a must in chillier climates. Early socialization is key to curbing overprotective tendencies and ensuring a friendly, well-adjusted dog.
Fun Fact: Chihuahuas are named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua, where American travelers first encountered the breed in the mid-1800s.
5. French Bulldog
Standing between 11 to 13 inches tall and weighing under 28 pounds, these little companions require minimal space and are content lounging indoors with their humans.
Known for their playful yet relaxed temperament, French Bulldogs adapt well to urban environments and are excellent choices for first-time dog owners. Their low energy levels and quiet nature make them respectful neighbors in close-quarters living.
Care Needs
French Bulldogs require modest daily activity, a short walk, and some indoor playtime usually suffices. Because they’re a flat-faced breed, it’s important to avoid strenuous exercise, especially in hot weather. Their short coat is relatively low-maintenance, but regular cleaning of facial folds and ears is essential for hygiene.
Frenchies are incredibly people-focused and can become anxious if left alone too long, so they do best in households where someone is home most of the day. While not typically loud, they may bark when bored or seeking attention.
Fun Fact: French Bulldogs were originally bred as companion dogs, and their affectionate nature means they thrive when surrounded by people, pets, and attention.
6. Bichon Frise
They are compact, cheerful, and endlessly charming. Standing just 9 to 12 inches tall and weighing between 12 to 18 pounds, this fluffy companion brings a big personality in a petite package.
Their playful, affectionate nature makes them a hit with children and other pets, while their minimal shedding is a bonus for maintaining a tidy living space. Always eager to meet new friends, Bichons thrive in social environments and love spending time with their humans.
Care Needs
This furry friend has a dense, curly white coat that doesn’t shed much, but it requires regular upkeep. Frequent brushing is essential to prevent mats, especially around the ears, and most owners opt for professional grooming every 4 to 8 weeks.
These dogs do well on a high-quality diet and need portion control to avoid weight gain. While not overly energetic, Bichons enjoy daily walks and play sessions to keep them content. Routine flea, tick, and heartworm prevention is also important, so consult your vet for the best plan.
Fun Fact: The Bichon Frise gained popularity as a royal lapdog during the Renaissance and made its way to the U.S. around 1950.
7. Toy Poodle
Standing no more than 10 inches tall and weighing around 4 to 6 pounds, these tiny dogs pack a big personality into a small frame.
Renowned for their intelligence, elegance, and affectionate nature, Toy Poodles are highly adaptable and thrive in confined spaces, as long as they get enough mental and physical activity. They also make attentive watchdogs, alerting their owners without being overly aggressive or loud.
Care Needs
Despite their petite size, this excellent dog breed needs consistent engagement to avoid boredom. Daily activities should include at least two walks and interactive play sessions to keep them stimulated and content.
Grooming is a must; their thick, curly coat requires regular brushing and professional grooming to stay in top shape. Toy Poodles don’t do well when left alone for long periods, as they bond closely with their humans and crave companionship. Mental enrichment through training and puzzle toys also helps manage their energy.
Fun Fact: These active breeds originally sported elaborate cuts to protect vital organs and joints while retrieving in cold water, not just for fashion flair.
8. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso offers the perfect blend of charm and independence. With a height of under 12 inches and a sturdy frame, this small dog fits easily into tight living spaces without sacrificing personality.
Though not aggressive, Lhasas can be a bit aloof or impatient, especially with young children, making them ideal for adult households or calm environments. They are playful, curious, and devoted once they bond with their humans.
Care Needs
While the Lhasa Apso’s small size suits apartment life, their grooming requirements demand regular attention. Their signature long, flowing coat, hypoallergenic and nearly floor-length, needs daily brushing to prevent tangles.
Professional grooming is often preferred for bath time and trimming. Despite minimal shedding, their coat maintenance can be time-consuming.
Exercise needs are modest: short walks and indoor play are typically enough. Training may be challenging at first due to their independent streak, so early socialization and structured lessons or classes are highly recommended.
Fun Fact: The Lhasa Apso’s iconic feathery tail and luxurious coat come from its origins in Tibet, where it served as a watchdog in monasteries.
9. Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon may be tiny in stature, measuring just 7 to 10 inches tall and weighing 6 to 14 pounds, but their personality is anything but small.
With expressive eyes and a nearly human-like face, they easily charm everyone they meet. Ideal for apartment life, this alert and affectionate breed adapts well to smaller spaces and enjoys bonding closely with its humans.
Often described as “Velcro dogs,” Brussels Griffons are happiest when they’re by your side, making them perfect for owners who are often home.
Care Needs
These small companions are brachycephalic, meaning they have a flat-faced appearance and are sensitive to extreme heat and cold. They should always be kept in climate-controlled environments and never left outside for long.
Though playful indoors, they still benefit from a daily walk to keep their minds and bodies active. Brussels Griffons do not enjoy solitude and may develop anxiety if left alone for extended periods, so consistent companionship is key to their happiness.
Fun Fact: Despite their compact size, Brussels Griffons make excellent watchdogs thanks to their keen senses and strong attachment to their owners.
10. Pug
These sturdy little dogs, typically weighing between 14 to 18 pounds, are well-known for their sociable nature and endearing quirks. Their playful but laid-back demeanor makes them wonderful companions for people of all ages, whether in a busy city high-rise or a quiet studio.
Pugs are content with indoor lounging and short bursts of play, making them especially well-suited for homes with limited space.
Care Needs
Though relatively low-maintenance, Pugs do have specific needs that require attention. Their short, smooth coat sheds, but weekly brushing helps manage loose hair.
Due to their flat faces, Pugs can struggle with heat and humidity, so it’s essential to monitor their breathing and avoid strenuous activity in warm weather.
Daily walks are important for their health, but these should be moderate. Pug eyes are also prone to issues like dry eye and corneal ulcers, so regular veterinary checkups are recommended to keep them healthy.
Fun Fact: The Pug’s Latin motto, “multum in parvo,” means “a lot in a little”, a perfect description of this tiny but lively breed.
Conclusion
Living in a smaller space doesn’t mean sacrificing the joy of dog ownership. With so many dog breeds well-suited for apartments, choosing the right companion comes down to energy levels, noise tendencies, and temperament. Breeds like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Pug demonstrate that small size paired with big personality makes for the perfect indoor buddy, without turning your neighbors against you. These are not typically yappy dogs, and they thrive with just a bit of daily attention and love.
While small dogs often come to mind, a few breeds beyond that category, like medium-sized dogs such as Basset Hounds or the fluffy yet adaptable American Eskimo Dog, can also adjust well to compact homes. Whether you’re home most of the day or rely on a dog walker, lifestyle compatibility is key. According to the American Kennel Club, many of these breeds are not only great in apartments but also excellent family pets. With the right fit, even a small space can feel full of joy and companionship.
