In today’s fast-moving world, from small apartments to subways and even elevators, we need a compassionate companion to match our pace. Fortunately, some canine fellows can effortlessly fit into our city life.
Small dog breeds make an ideal fit to accompany you in confined spaces like apartments and tiny elevators. Their compact size, loyalty, and adaptable nature allow them to fit into changing environments.
Elevators are busy places, and your dog will encounter several new people and pets, like other dogs and cats. If you live in a high-rise apartment with an elevator, you need to adopt a breed that is comfortable with the noise and hustle and bustle.
Here are the top 7 dog breeds that can fit tiny elevators.
Dog Breeds that Fit Tiny Elevators
1. Havanese
Breed Profile
Height: 8.5 to 11.5 inches
Weight: 7 to 13 pounds
Life Expectancy: 14 to 16 years
Havanese is a small dog that stands 9 to 12 inches and weighs around 8 to 14 pounds. Due to its compact size, it can fit in small elevators and live in small spaces like an apartment. These affectionate and playful dogs love to cuddle up with their owners in small spaces.
Havanese are the sweet-natured pups having personalities that match their outward appearance. They have a slightly wavy and long fur that requires extensive grooming.
Havanese are not high-energy dogs, but they require daily exercise to stay healthy. Indoor playtime may provide enough physical and mental stimulation for the dog.
Their friendly and sociable temperament allows them to share the elevator with other people. They socialize with other dogs and children they meet in the elevator. These family dogs love spending time and going to places with their owners.
2. Shih Tzu
Breed Profile
Height: 9 to 10.5 inches
Weight: 9 to 16 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10 to 18 years
Yet another apartment-friendly dog breed, the Shih Tzu is known for being comfortable around kids. They also get along well with other pets like dogs or cats. Due to these traits, they fit well in an elevator where they might encounter children and other dogs.
Having a height of less than 11 inches and weighing around 9 to 16 pounds, Shih Tzus are one of the best dog breeds to adjust to small spaces like an elevator without becoming claustrophobic. Like Havanese dogs, Shih Tzus also have a laid-back nature.
They have fewer exercise needs due to low energy levels—indoor playtime coupled with a few short walks will suffice, making them perfect for apartment life. Their large, expressive eyes and beautiful fur make them a target for constant attention.
3. Affenpinscher
Breed Profile
Height: 9 to 12 inches
Weight: 7 to 10 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
Affenpinscher is a small dog that stands 9 to 12 inches tall and weighs no more than 7-10 pounds. Its size allows it to fit well in an elevator, travel anywhere with its owners, and makes it one of the best apartment dogs.
Affenpinschers are energetic dogs as compared to other apartment-dwelling breeds. But they require more mental stimulation than physical activity. Indoor playtime alone or with their owners provides enough exercise to stay fit and happy.
Affenpinschers are known for their flexibility, so they can easily adjust in a palace as well as in an apartment. These curious and joyful pups do not need a large space to roam. The American Kennel Club describes Affenpinschers as fearless, confident, and famously funny dogs.
4. Pug
Breed Profile
Height: 10 to 13 inches
Weight: 14 to 18 pounds
Life Expectancy: 13 to 15 years
Pugs make great apartment dogs as long as they keep getting enough affection from their owners. They can fit in small spaces like tiny elevators due to their small size. Their chubby and flat face with lots of wrinkles is cute enough to draw anybody’s attention.
Pugs are the low-energy fellows that can happily spend all day indoors, according to PetPlan. They also love food, due to which they are prone to obesity. Therefore, you need to keep a balance between your Pug’s diet and exercise to keep them from getting obese.
Pugs are very social and interact well with people, children, and other dogs they come across in the elevators. Pugs adore their owners and love snuggles. They tend to form strong bonds with their humans and do not like being left alone. Otherwise, they will develop separation anxiety.
5. Basset Hound
Breed Profile
Height: Under 15 inches
Weight: 40 to 65 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12 to 13 years
Basset Hounds are relatively larger than other breeds on our list. These medium-sized dogs are well-suited for living in an apartment and easily fit smaller spaces due to their calm demeanor and moderate exercise needs.
They have laid-back personalities, so they don’t keep running around and disturbing the people in the elevator. They like relaxing and lounging around the house and make ideal pets for owners who do not have enough time to take their dogs for long walks or runs.
However, Basset Hounds are vocal—they can bark when they are lonely, frustrated, bored, or excited. Basset Hounds are protective dogs who may bark at strangers. Proper training can help them teach them not to bark too often.
6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Breed Profile
Height: 12 to 13 inches
Weight: 13 to 18 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
Ideal for city life, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are affectionate and adaptable dogs. They are the “king of lapdogs” and bond closely with their pet parents. A smaller living space where they can keep an eye on their owner is their dream place.
Cavaliers tend to be very clingy—they like to go everywhere with their owners and can easily adjust in a tiny elevator due to their calm size and gentle nature. These easy-to-train dogs equally enjoy indoor and outdoor activities.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have moderate energy levels. One hour of exercise per day, including a couple of short walks, will be enough for them. They might look high maintenance due to their long coat, butthey only need regular brushing to prevent tangles.
7. Bichon Frise
Breed Profile
Height: 9.5 to 11.5 inches
Weight: 12 to 18 pounds
Life Expectancy: 14 to 15 years
Bichon Frise is a small companion dog, standing 9 to 12 inches tall and weighing between 12 and 18 pounds. These highly adaptable, cheerful, and friendly dogs are ideal for apartment dwellers and families with young children. They can fulfil most of their exercise needs in your apartment’s living room.
According to PetMD, they have a hypoallergenic coat, which makes them well-suited for individuals suffering from allergies. Bichon Frises are friendly and social dogs who happily greet everyone they meet in an elevator. They love getting attention from everyone around them.
These small white dogs require extensive grooming to keep their coat healthy and clean. Daily, brush your Bichon Frise and schedule appointments with a professional groomer every four to six weeks.
Conclusion
Are you planning to adopt a dog breed suitable for apartment living, travelling to places, and that can even fit in tiny elevators? One of the breeds mentioned in this article might be the right fit for you! But remember: whatever breed you adopt, make sure to give them proper care and love.
