Many dog breeds do not find enough space in apartments to roam around and exercise, nor do they get immediate access to a yard. However, the size of your living space is not the only criterion to consider when you are planning to adopt a dog.
Usually the dogs having low energy levels and fewer exercise needs make good pets for apartment dwellers. Most small dogs are well-suited for apartment living, but some larger dogs with lower energy levels also make great apartment dogs.
Apart from the dog’s exercise requirements, you should pay attention to their temperament. Laid back dogs with a calm demeanor can adapt well to confined spaces like apartments, as compared to those with a demanding and stubborn nature.
Here are the top 7 dog breeds ideal for high-rise apartments.
Dog Breeds Ideal for High-Rise Apartments
1. Affenpinscher
Breed Profile
Height: 9 to 12 inches
Weight: 7 to 10 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
The adorable little dog originating from Germany, the Affenpinscher, is popular for having a confident and funny personality. Their small size makes them well-suited for apartment living. Affenpinschers are energetic dogs who require more mental stimulation than physical activity.
Indoor playtime, both with the owner and just between himself and the toy, provides enough exercise for the dog. The Terrier heritage of these curious and playful dogs often makes them wary of strangers. Therefore, early socialization is important for these dogs to behave well around new guests.
According to the AKC, Affenpinschers, also known as ape terriers or monkey dogs, are too fearless for their small size. They require regular but not daily grooming. For instance, their coat requires weekly brushing. So, if you are a busy apartment owner, an Affenpinscher might be the right dog breed for you.
2. Basset Hound
Breed Profile
Height: Under 15 inches
Weight: 40 to 65 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12 to 13 years
Basset Hounds are medium-sized dogs weighing around 40 to 65 pounds. They are heavy, but not too tall. This size makes them well-suited as apartment dogs. Thanks to their laid-back nature and low exercise requirements, they are a pawfect fit for apartment dwellers.
Basset Hounds generally like relaxing and lounging around the house. You do not have to take much time for long walks or runs. Basset Hounds are dogs with floppy ears, droopy eyes, and a keen sense of smell. They were originally bred to sniff game for hunters.
However, Basset Hounds are vocal and tend to bark a lot, so your neighbors might not be happy. Busy apartment buildings have a lot of unknown people passing by. So, Basset Hounds might bark at unfamiliar faces coming and going. With proper training, you can teach them not to bark excessively.
3. Bichon Frise
Breed Profile
Height: 9.5 to 11.5 inches
Weight: 12 to 18 pounds
Life Expectancy: 14 to 15 years
Bichon Frises are paw-fect for pet parents living in apartment complexes due to their adaptable energy levels. These small dogs can easily roam and play in confined spaces and don’t feel claustrophobic in an apartment.
Bichon Frise has a hypoallergenic coat, which makes them paw-some pets for allergy sufferers or individuals who want less dirt and dander in their homes. They do not require much exercise, and a short stroll around the neighborhood is enough to keep them healthy and content.
They are highly trainable, friendly, and eager to please. The sociable nature of these dogs makes them perfect for living in an apartment. However, their fluffy coats require extensive grooming, and they are brachycephalic. Due to their short muzzles, they can suffer from breathing problems.
4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Breed Profile
Height: 12 to 13 inches
Weight: 13 to 18 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels’ friendly demeanor, affectionate nature, and adaptability make them suitable for apartment living. These sociable fellows thrive on human attention and are happy with a couple of short strolls a day and some cuddles.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are the lapdogs who don’t require extensive grooming. However, the coat is high maintenance and needs weekly brushing to remain healthy. They thrive on high-quality dog food and occasional fresh food treats.
According to PDSA, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels need one hour of exercise every day. These sweet-natured dogs, just like other purebreds, are vulnerable to various health problems like eye infections, luxating patella, heart diseases, and bad teeth.
5. Havanese
Breed Profile
Height: 8.5 to 11.5 inches
Weight: 7 to 13 pounds
Life Expectancy: 14 to 16 years
Havanese is a family dog that does equally well in apartments as well as houses. Their adorable and sweet personalities match their outward appearance.
They have long, elegant, and slightly wavy coats. Havanese thrive on affection and attention. They are not considered a high-energy breed but do require regular exercise.
Havanese are small dogs standing only 9 to 12 inches tall and weighing around 8 to 14 pounds. Their compact size makes them wonderful apartment dogs. They can easily adapt to living in small spaces like an apartment and love cuddling with their owners.
They form strong bonds with their humans. Therefore, never let your Havanese stay alone for too long; otherwise, they will develop separation anxiety. They are the paw-fect family dogs provided the owner takes proper care of their exercise, training, and grooming needs.
6. Pug
Breed Profile
Height: 10 to 13 inches
Weight: 14 to 18 pounds
Life Expectancy: 13 to 15 years
Pugs are mischievous and loving dogs who adore their humans and love being cuddled. It is a wrinkly dog with a curly tail. According to Hill’s Pet Nutrition, pugs are laid-back dogs who do not bark excessively. These traits make them ideal for living in an apartment community.
Pugs are known for their social, playful, and loyal nature. They get along well with children and other dogs. These affectionate dogs are happy lounging around at home or simply hanging out with their people.
However, they are prone to obesity due to their lazy personalities. Therefore, you need to keep a perfect balance between diet and exercise to keep your pug healthy. They need around 30 to 60 minutes of exercise every day for adequate physical and mental stimulation.
7. Shih Tzu
Breed Profile
Height: 9 to 10.5 inches
Weight: 9 to 16 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10 to 18 years
Shih Tzu, literally translating to “little lion,” is a toy dog breed having an easygoing and affectionate temperament. The small size means they do not need much space to roam and exercise. Chasing after a toy a few times per day in the apartment provides enough exercise.
Like pugs, Shih Tzus also get along well with kids and are well-suited for homes with multi-pet households. Due to their lively and playful nature, they make enjoyable companions, explains WebMD. However, Shih Tzus tend to be vocal.
Proper training can teach them not to bark excessively. With expressive eyes and long fur, Shih Tzus are ready for an adventure as well as spending time cuddling with their owners. Shih Tzus are also prone to obesity, so you need to control their diet and limit the treats.
Conclusion
Many dog breeds are suitable for living in high-rise apartments due to their laid-back personalities, affectionate nature, and lower exercise needs. If you are an apartment dweller looking for a suitable dog, one of the breeds mentioned in this article might be a great fit for you!
