Living with less doesn’t mean living without love. More dog lovers are discovering that minimalist homes can be perfect for the right furry companion. Clean lines, open spaces, and clutter-free living can suit many dog breeds beautifully.
The secret lies in choosing apartment dogs that match your lifestyle rather than fighting against it. The best apartment dogs for minimalist living are those that don’t need tons of stuff to be happy. They are content with quality basics and genuine human connections.
These pups thrive in organized environments where every item has its place. Let’s go through these 9 breeds that love living in small, cozy spaces.
Dog Breeds That Love Minimalist Homes
1. Chihuahua
Size: 5–8 inches
Weight: Not more than 6 pounds
Lifespan: 14–16 years
Temperament: Charming/Graceful/ Sassy
They are practically designed for small spaces and minimalist living. Because Chihuahuas are so small, they don’t need a lot of space to run around, making them ideal for apartment dwellers who want maximum personality in minimum space.
Did you know that Chihuahuas come in two head types? One is apple-headed, which is a rounded skull with a short muzzle, and deer-headed is a more elongated face. Each look gives the breed its unique charm.
What makes them perfect for minimalist homes is their size advantage. These small dogs require minimal exercise compared to larger dogs. A short walk around the block and some indoor playtime keep them perfectly happy. They are not demanding marathon exercise sessions.
Temperament
Fiercely Loyal Dogs
Very bold and confident
Naturally alert guardian
2. Maltese
Size: 7–9 inches
Weight: Under 7 pounds
Lifespan: 12–15 years
Temperament: Gentle / Charming / Playful
The Maltese is the epitome of elegance in a small dog package. This dog is a popular choice for apartment living due to its small size, gentle demeanor, and minimal shedding and exercise needs. These dogs were bred to be companions, making them naturally suited to close quarters with humans.
Their low energy levels, trainability, and gentle nature, along with a hypoallergenic coat, make them a great fit for apartment living. This combination of traits means less mess, fewer issues, and a calmer household.
Their coat needs regular grooming, but it’s manageable with a routine. They shed less due to their hypoallergenic coat, and also reduce the allergens in your home. These small dogs are naturally clean and don’t have that typical doggy odor other dogs carry.
Temperament
Gentle and affectionate
Naturally well-behaved
Thrives on companionship
3. Bichon Frise
Size: 9.5–11.5 inches
Weight: 12–18 pounds
Lifespan: 14–15 years
Temperament: Curious / Playful / Peppy
Bichon Frises are like little clouds of joy that happen to be perfectly sized for apartment living. These dogs have mastered the art of entertaining without being overwhelmed. They are naturally cheerful and will adapt well to your lifestyle.
According to WebMD, Bichons are lively, moderately energetic dogs who love to play, and their friendly energy makes them wonderful companions.
They are very light shedders, meaning less hair on furniture and your clothes, reducing the constant need for cleaning and maintenance. Their curly coat traps loose hair rather than releasing it all over your place.
They are sturdy enough not to be underfoot all the time, but small enough to be comfortable in small spaces, making them perfectly suited for apartments. Their friendly nature means they bark less and are very good neighbours!
Temperament
Cheerful and playful
Naturally social
Easy-going personality
4. Basset Hound
Size: Up to 15 inches
Weight: 40-65 pounds
Lifespan: 12-13 years
Temperament: Patient / Low-key / Charming
Here’s where conventional wisdom gets flipped on its head. Basset Hounds prove that bigger doesn’t always mean more demanding. These dogs are professional couch potatoes who happen to have four legs and incredible charm. They are perfect for an apartment lifestyle despite their medium size.
What makes them exceptional for minimalist living is their laid-back attitude. They are naturally calm and don’t require constant entertainment or stimulation. A comfortable spot to relax and regular meals keep them completely satisfied. They are not going to demand elaborate toys or equipment.
The exercise needs of Baseet Hounds align perfectly with apartment living. They are happy with walks and don’t need intensive exercise. Their calm nature means they are not destructive when left alone, making them ideal for working pet parents.
Temperament
Cheerful and playful
Naturally social
Easy-going personality
5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Size: 12–13 inches
Weight: 13–18 pounds
Lifespan: 12–15 years
Temperament: Affectionate / Gentle / Graceful
These dogs are engaging when you want interaction, but respectful of your space when you need time. This nature makes them ideal for minimalist households.
They are not destructive or demanding, preferring to be near their humans rather than needing constant attention. This makes them perfect for people who appreciate peaceful living spaces.
They enjoy mental stimulation but don’t need elaborate puzzle toys or equipment, and simple activities like training sessions are more than enough to keep them happy and healthy.
Also, what’s better than a dog who’s got royal genes! They prove to be the best apartment dogs.
Temperament
Gentle and affectionate
Naturally well-mannered
Highly adaptable
6. Chinese Crested Dogs
Size: 11-13 inches
Weight: 8-12 pounds
Lifespan: 13-18 years
Temperament: Affectionate / Alert / Lively
They come with minimal hair, making them perfect for pet owners who don’t want to put too much effort. They don’t shed like many other dogs, which significantly eliminates the need for regular cleaning.
Their exercise needs are perfect too; short walks and indoor play satisfy their activity requirements completely. They are excellent apartment dogs.
They are not high-energy dogs demanding extensive exercise routines or specialised equipment. Comfortable apartments with loving owners meet all their needs. Good part, they are naturally quiet and very well-behaved dogs who won’t disturb you or your neighbours.
Temperament
Calm and gentle
Naturally quiet
Extremely devoted
7. French Bulldog
Size: 11–13 inches
Weight: Under 28 pounds
Lifespan: 10–12 years
Temperament: Playful / Smart / Adaptable
These small dogs are great for small spaces and minimalist lifestyles. They don’t require extensive exercise or elaborate setups to be happy and healthy. They are content and smart with simple pleasures like lounging on your comfy couch and short walks around your home.
They are not demanding of constant energy and activity. Purina mentions that Frenchies sport a sleek coat and shed moderately. They’re low-maintenance when it comes to grooming; just a simple weekly brushing keeps their coat in top shape.
They are one of the best apartment dogs that truly understand the etiquette of apartment living. They rarely bark excessively and have a calm demeanor that won’t be a trouble for anyone. Their gentle nature makes them perfect friends for people who appreciate tranquil living spaces.
Temperament
Easygoing and calm
Naturally adaptable
Low-maintenance personality
8. Greyhounds
Size: 27–30 inches
Weight: 60–70 pounds
Lifespan: 10–13 years
Temperament: Independent/Gentle/noble
These gentle dogs are often referred to as couch potatoes as they enjoy lounging around after a long run or any activity. Their racing background might shock you, but they are naturally calm indoors. They are ideal for apartment living despite their huge size, and don’t bark much either.
They enjoy daily walks but don’t need marathon exercise sessions. Short bursts of activity followed by long rest periods suit them perfectly.
Bonus point: they are naturally clean dogs without typical doggy odors, and they prove that size isn’t everything when it comes to apartment suitability.
Temperament
Gentle and calm
Naturally quiet
Extremely laid-back
9. Shih Tzu
Size: 9–10.5 inches
Weight: 9–16 pounds
Lifespan: 10–18 years
Temperament: Playful / Outgoing / Affectionate
These dogs have mastered the art of being present without being overwhelming. The Shih Tzu is known for its loyal and affectionate nature, making it an excellent choice for apartment living.
The activities needed for them include indoor play sessions and short, casual walks. Mental stimulation is also needed to keep them sane, so make sure to play puzzles and similar games with them.
Their silky coat needs attention, but doesn’t need elaborate styling or expensive products. Many pet parents find the grooming routine relaxing and bonding rather than burdensome, and thus, they make the best apartment dogs.
Temperament
Loyal and affectionate
Highly adaptable
Gentle and calm
Conclusion
Finding the right dog breed for your minimal lifestyle isn’t about compromising your lifestyle. It’s more about discovering a companion who naturally fits your values of intentional living. These apartment dogs prove that you need a lot of stuff and huge spaces to provide a loving home for a furry friend.
Whatever dog you choose, we guarantee that it will make your life 100 times better and will make you obsessed with your new friend! The small dog breeds mentioned above are quite low-maintenance and happily live in small spaces.
