Apartment living comes with its share of limitations, especially when it comes to owning a dog. Without a backyard to roam or ample indoor space to stretch out, many prospective pet owners worry that their cozy homes might not be suitable for canine companionship. But the good news is, not all dogs require sprawling landscapes to be happy. Some breeds are incredibly adaptable and thrive just as well in apartments as they do in larger homes.
From compact frames to laid-back temperaments, the best apartment-friendly dogs are those that don’t need constant activity to feel fulfilled. While smaller breeds often top the list, size isn’t the only factor—low energy levels, minimal grooming needs, and a quiet nature all contribute to how well a dog fits apartment life. In fact, some breeds prefer the security and routine of a confined space.
This guide will introduce you to dog breeds that adjust quickly to apartment living. Whether you’re a city dweller or a suburbanite in a smaller space, these adaptable dogs can offer loyal companionship without needing a backyard of their own.
Dog Breeds That Adapt Fast to Apartment Life
1. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise, also known as the Tenerife or simply Bichon, is a cheerful toy breed known for its puffy white coat and endearing personality. Originating from the Mediterranean region, particularly Tenerife in the Canary Islands, the breed gained favor with European nobility before transitioning into a popular household companion.
Standing between 9.5 to 11.5 inches tall and weighing 12 to 18 pounds, the Bichon is compact yet sturdy. With a lifespan of 14 to 15 years, this breed is affectionate, highly sociable, and hypoallergenic—qualities that make it an ideal fit for apartment dwellers.
Their low-shedding coat minimizes cleanup in smaller spaces, though regular grooming is essential. The American Kennel Club (AKC) describes the Bichon Frise as a small yet strong and hardy breed, celebrated as one of the world’s top “personality dogs.”
The Bichon Frise belongs to the Non-Sporting Group and is known for being alert, adaptable, and especially good with families.
Exercise
Though playful and sprightly, this small dog breed has moderate exercise needs. About 30 minutes to an hour of daily physical activity—including short walks, indoor play, and interactive games—is sufficient to keep them content.
Puppies, however, require brief but frequent play sessions to avoid overexertion. Regular mental stimulation ensures they stay happy and well-behaved in compact living spaces.
Did you know? The French word bichonner, meaning “to pamper,” was inspired by this breed’s royal reputation for being doted on by French and Spanish nobility.
2. Greyhound
Also known as the “45-mph couch potato,” the Greyhound defies expectations with its surprisingly calm demeanor and adaptability. WebMD states that Greyhound dogs are recognized for their impressive speed and their calm, independent temperament.
With ancient roots dating back over 4,000 years, Greyhounds have long been prized for their speed and grace. Originally bred for hunting and later for racing, these sleek sighthounds typically weigh between 60 and 70 pounds and stand 27 to 30 inches tall.
Despite their athletic build, Greyhounds are affectionate, gentle, and sensitive companions. They thrive in quiet environments and make ideal pets for apartment dwellers due to their quiet nature and low-maintenance short coats. This breed generally lives 10 to 13 years and belongs to the Hound group.
Exercise
Although capable of astonishing bursts of speed, Greyhounds are not high-energy dogs. A couple of brisk walks each day or a brief play session in a fenced area is usually enough to keep them content.
While they enjoy sprinting, Greyhounds are equally happy lounging for hours on the couch, earning them their famously lazy reputation. They’re perfectly suited for apartment life as long as their moderate exercise needs are met.
Did you know?
Despite their racing heritage, Greyhounds are among the most relaxed and low-energy breeds, making them one of the most apartment-friendly large dogs.
3. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu, affectionately known as the “Lion Dog,” is a regal companion breed with roots tracing back to ancient China and Tibet. Revered by Chinese royalty for centuries, this toy group dog is best known for its luxurious flowing coat, sweet expression, and endearing personality.
Standing between 9 to 10.5 inches tall and weighing 9 to 16 pounds, the Shih Tzu is a compact, sturdy breed ideal for cozy living spaces. PetMD reports that the Shih Tzu quickly gained favor among the upper class and continues to be one of the most beloved dog breeds in the United States today.
Its single-layered coat comes in a wide range of colors, including black, silver, red, and gold, often requiring regular grooming to maintain its elegant look. While their average lifespan spans 10 to 18 years, their loyalty and companionship are timeless.
Despite their royal heritage, Shih Tzus are down-to-earth companions who form strong bonds with their humans. Their mellow temperament and relatively quiet nature make them well-suited for apartment life. However, they do not tolerate being left alone for long periods, as they thrive on affection and attention.
Exercise
Shih Tzus have modest energy levels and only require basic daily physical activity to stay healthy. A short daily walk combined with some indoor play is usually sufficient.
While they enjoy outings, they’re equally content snuggling on the couch. Due to their small size and laid-back nature, they don’t demand intense exercise sessions.
Fun Fact: Although known for their laid-back demeanor, the Shih Tzu was once used to warm the laps of Chinese emperors and alert them to intruders, thanks to their sharp senses and loyal nature.
4. Basset Hound
Originating from France and Belgium, the Basset Hound—often simply called the “Basset”—is a charming scent hound with a rich history in aristocratic hunting. Officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885, this breed was once prized for trailing rabbits and deer.
Today, Bassets stand no more than 15 inches tall and weigh between 40 to 65 pounds. They are distinguished by their droopy ears, mournful eyes, and heavy-boned, low-slung frames.
Classified under the Hound group, Basset Hounds typically enjoy a lifespan of 12 to 13 years. Despite their larger size for apartment life, their slow, calm nature and low energy levels make them surprisingly well-suited for compact spaces, though elevator access is ideal for their aging joints.
Exercise
Although naturally laid-back and fond of lounging, these hunting dogs still require a balanced mix of physical and mental stimulation. A daily hour-long walk helps maintain a healthy weight and supports joint health.
Their long backs and short legs make stair climbing risky, especially for puppies and seniors. Outdoor sniffing sessions in secure areas are a great outlet, and puzzle toys or short training games at home provide vital mental enrichment.
Fun Fact: The lovable Basset Hound was the face of the Hush Puppies shoe brand and even shared a stage with Elvis Presley on “The Steve Allen Show.”
5. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is the tiniest of all recognized dog breeds, yet it carries itself with outsized confidence. With a history tracing back to ancient civilizations in Mexico, this pint-sized pup has been a treasured companion for centuries.
Chihuahuas bond intensely with their humans and tend to prefer the company of a single person, making them ideal for solo apartment dwellers.
Their compact frame allows them to thrive in smaller living spaces, and they come in a variety of coat colors and textures—from sleek and short to long and feathered. While they may be vocal when alerting to unfamiliar sounds, their barking can be effectively managed through early training.
Exercise
Despite their small size, Chihuahuas are lively and benefit from daily physical activity. A couple of short walks combined with indoor play sessions are generally enough to meet their energy needs.
Because of their petite stature, even a modest apartment provides ample room to explore and burn off energy. Mental stimulation through basic training can also keep them engaged and happy.
Did you know?
Chihuahuas are thought to descend from the Techichi, a companion dog kept by the ancient Toltec civilization in Mexico.
6. Chinese Crested
With their unmistakable appearance—spotted pink skin, tufts of silky hair on the head, tail, and feet, and a fine-boned frame—the Chinese Crested is a whimsical and elegant member of the toy group. Standing about 11 to 13 inches tall and weighing between 8 to 12 pounds, this breed is ideal for small-space living.
he two distinct varieties—Hairless and Powderpuff—share a similar temperament and structure. While the Hairless needs regular skin care and sun protection, the Powderpuff’s long, silky coat requires routine grooming. Despite their delicate look, they’re sprightly and affectionate companions with a long lifespan of 13 to 18 years.
Highly affectionate and deeply bonded to their humans, Chinese Cresteds thrive in apartment settings where they can stay close to family. Their small stature and social nature make them excellent companions for singles and seniors alike. They rarely bark unnecessarily and do well with respectful children and other pets.
Exercise
Chinese Cresteds have a moderate energy level. They enjoy daily walks of around 20 minutes and short indoor play sessions. While they’re not demanding in terms of exercise, these intelligent dogs do benefit from puzzle toys, dog sports, and basic obedience games that keep their minds active.
Though not high-strung, they dislike being left alone for long periods and may become clingy without enough interaction.
Fact: Despite their dainty appearance, Chinese Cresteds are surprisingly athletic and love to climb and dig, making a small, secure yard a bonus if available.
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel effortlessly balances charm with adaptability, making it an ideal companion for apartment living. Bred from the English Toy Spaniel and revived in the early 1900s to resemble its longer-muzzled ancestors, this breed gained recognition by the Kennel Club in 1945.
With a sweet temperament and affectionate nature, the Cavalier thrives in small spaces where it can remain close to its humans—something it absolutely adores.
Its expressive, round eyes and silky coat give it a regal, yet approachable appearance. Despite its elegance, this small spaniel is far from delicate—it retains sporting instincts that make it surprisingly agile and playful.
Exercise
Though perfectly content cuddling on the couch, Cavaliers also enjoy staying active. A few daily walks or short play sessions are enough to keep them healthy and stimulated. T
hey don’t demand intensive physical activity, making them well-suited for owners with a more laid-back lifestyle. Occasional excursions to parks or trails can satisfy their more adventurous side, while their small stature ensures they won’t feel cramped even in studio apartments.
Did you know? President Ronald Reagan gifted a Cavalier named Rex to his wife, Nancy, and Rex once helped light the White House Christmas tree.
8. Maltese
The Maltese is a treasured toy breed with a legacy tracing back over 2,500 years to the Mediterranean island of Malta. Bred primarily as companions to royalty and nobility, these compact canines are both elegant and affectionate. With a height of 7 to 9 inches and weighing under 7 pounds, they are perfectly sized for small spaces.
Their luxurious white coat, bright dark eyes, and endearing expressions make them an appealing choice for city dwellers. Maltese dogs belong to the Toy Group, typically live 12 to 15 years, and are alert, fearless, and friendly.
They’re generally good for apartment life thanks to their size and adaptable nature, plus their reputation as quiet companions who don’t shed much makes them ideal for close living quarters.
Exercise
Maltese dogs have moderate energy levels and don’t require intense workouts. A couple of short walks and a bit of indoor playtime are usually enough to keep them physically and mentally satisfied. They thrive on attention and enjoy bonding activities rather than vigorous exercise routines.
Fun Fact: A Maltese named Trouble inherited $2 million from hotel heiress Leona Helmsley and lived under full-time security in luxury.
9. French Bulldog
Stout, compact, and full of charm, the French Bulldog is one of the most beloved apartment companions worldwide. Originally bred in the 1800s as a result of crossing English Toy Bulldogs with Parisian ratting dogs, Frenchies quickly rose to fame for their affectionate personalities and unique appearance, particularly their iconic “bat ears” and smushed noses.
Despite their muscular build, they have an easygoing nature and thrive in cozy indoor settings. Their low grooming needs and relaxed demeanor make them especially suitable for small-space dwellers. However, prospective owners should be mindful of potential health concerns due to their brachycephalic structure.
Exercise
Though playful and social, French Bulldogs have modest exercise needs. A couple of short daily walks and indoor playtime typically suffice to keep them happy.
Because they are prone to overheating, it’s important to avoid strenuous activity, especially in hot and humid climates. Most Frenchies enjoy interactive games but are often indifferent to retrieving toys. Caution should be taken around water, as most cannot swim safely.
Did you know? A French Bulldog named Gamin de Pycombe was aboard the Titanic in 1912. His wealthy owner survived, but the dog sadly did not.
Conclusion
Finding the right canine companion for compact living starts with understanding which apartment dogs naturally adjust to smaller spaces and quieter routines. Whether you’re seeking a family dog or a loyal house dog, many breeds adapt with ease, especially when given the right balance of affection, mental stimulation, and short walks to the dog park. From playful lapdogs to relaxed loungers, even some purebred dogs traditionally seen in larger homes can flourish in urban apartments with the right lifestyle fit.
Breeds like the Boston Terrier are perfect examples of adaptable, sociable companions who do well with other dogs and don’t require endless space to be happy. While some larger breeds—like Bernese Mountain Dogs—may surprise you with their calm indoor demeanor, it’s essential to review any breed restrictions in your building before committing. Many of the best apartment dogs are lower-energy or even herding dogs that enjoy close bonds with their owners. Choosing the right breed ensures a more harmonious home life for you and your four-legged friend.
