Looking for a dog that fits with the urban lifestyle is not difficult or impossible, but only when you do it the right way. Most dogs are born to adapt quickly, while others are rigid and take time and training to adjust.
The best dogs are not just born, they have to be shaped accordingly with extensive exercise, mental stimulation, and proper training. To have a dog that can settle in urban environments, it must be trained at a young age. Moreover, choosing the right breed by keeping its qualities in mind can help you get the ideal dog.
Pro Tip: If you are a first time pet owner, don’t just look for canines with calm personality, opt for the one that is low maintenance dog.
And if you really want to enjoy the urban life with a dog, calm temperament dogs align well. To help you find one, we have shortlisted the top seven dog breeds.
For all of the dogs listed below, you must focus on their exercise needs, grooming and training, health concerns, social interaction, and lifespan. Considering these factors will help you choose the right dog in less time.
Amazing Dog Breeds for a Happy Urban Lifestyle
1. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is a popular breed in the United States for urban living. It has a playful, smart, alert, and adaptable nature. The breed belongs to a non-sporting group, and the life expectancy is 10-12 years. Because of their calm energy levels, friendly nature, compact size, and low maintenance requirements, Frenchies are the most favored dogs in city life.
They’re not just ideal for city living, but they also make wonderful loafing companions. Frenchies have a playful nature, which means they enjoy outdoor activities and interacting with other pets. To make a strong bond with a French Bulldog, early socialization and training are encouraged.
Although the French Bulldog is a low-maintenance breed, health problems like skin and breathing issues, back injuries, and ear infections are common.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a gentle, graceful, and affectionate nature dog that belongs to the toy group. It is a cute, small dog that does not age, metaphorically. This couch potato remains a puppy forever. If you are a first-time pet owner, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is highly recommended because it is a friendly dog and does not shed much.
They are known for their calm and friendly nature with children. However, proper training and socialization remain the key for every dog. With a 20-30 minute walk daily, these loving dogs will enjoy being in your lap.
As part of their grooming and monitoring health, ears should be checked weekly to prevent infections, and regular brushing and baths are a must. They fit into small spaces because of low training and mental stimulation requirements, while making them a sweet and content dog.
3. Pug
As PetMD elaborates about this ancient breed that originated from China, it is a spunky dog that comes with a bunch of personalities that fit every owner’s needs. They are friendly, affectionate, and adaptable dogs that make great apartment living dogs.
Although Pugs have a playful personality, they do not bark much. This makes them excellent city companions. With a lifespan of 13-15 years, these dogs are clingy and like to be around their humans. So, dog owners get ready to spend quality time with Pug, as their active energy levels won’t let you sit.
Considering their grooming, the skin folds or wrinkles require occasional brushing to keep them free from dirt and infections. Health problems like overheating, breathing, allergies, and ear infections are common in Pugs.
4. Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier is an affectionate, social, and intelligent dog that makes a calm indoor companion. It is a cute small dog breed that has moderate energy levels and likes to be around their owners. Their personality and size make them good for apartment living. But their stubbornness and breathing problems must not be neglected.
With a lifespan of 11-13 years, these dogs enjoy outdoor activities like fetch, frisbee, agility, and a daily walk. They do not shed much, but brushing the coat once a week is recommended to avoid fur falling out on the floor. Alongside, this helps maintain the hygiene as well.
Apart from being best suited for apartments, these dogs are recommended for active people, and they can be your companion for outdoor adventures like hiking, etc.
5. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is one of the cutest and most adorable dog breeds that belongs to the toy group. It was recognized by the AKC in 1969, and is known as “lion dog” because of its high alert and protective instincts. Although the Shih Tzu is an affectionate, playful, and outgoing dog with a moderate energy level, you need to train them and give them proper exercise sessions.
They have a life expectancy of 10-18 years. And throughout their life, they enjoy interacting with all ages of people and children because separation anxiety is a serious thing for them. If trained properly, you will find them adjusting to other animals smoothly.
As Shih Tzu is an alert dog, they do not have an excessive barking habit, but will bark to alert the owner to any danger.
Some of the health conditions that they are prone to include: obesity, eye issues, liver shunts, and dental issues, etc. So, before bringing one home, discuss the breed characteristics and health of the dog with the breeder.
6. Dachshund
Dachshund is a loveable, medium-sized dog that is best for apartment living because they are charming and adaptable. Apart from being loyal companions and watchdogs, they are known for their highly destructive behavior, according to Hills Pet. So, early training and socialization are the only ways to have a well-mannered Dachshund.
Be it a miniature or medium-sized Dachshund, both are perfect apartment-friendly dogs. Their lifespan is 12-16 years. They are also known as “hot dog” or “wiener dog”. History defines them as independent hunters for dangerous prey, making them among the most popular dogs in the US even today.
As they are prone to spinal issues, feeding a high-quality and age-appropriate diet can prevent or delay spinal issues in these dogs. Consult a vet about the right dog food and also how much you should feed a dog to avoid obesity.
7. Maltese
Last but not least, Maltese is an affectionate, stubborn, and alert dog that makes an ideal pet for urban living and can adjust to very little space. They are known for their floor-length coats and playful personalities. Their size, temperament, and moderate energy levels are what add to their quality. However, they are also hypoallergenic dogs, so you can bond with them as they are healthy.
They are space-saving, easy to train, travel-friendly, and low-maintenance dogs. Their cute and small size makes them fit anywhere, be it in your bag. They have fewer exercise needs but enjoy activities like: agility, learning new tricks, and going for a walk with the owner.
These are smart dogs, and training is important for them. Because of their intelligence, they pick up training cues with positive reinforcement. And owners enjoy training them because they make the session enjoyable with praises.
Conclusion
The list of the best dog breeds for an urban setting does not end here. Apart from the minimal grooming and little exercise needs, these dogs are best for apartment living because when trained properly, you have fewer mental challenges, and the fear of disturbing neighbors is reduced.
Pick the right dog that matches your needs and enjoy the city life, long walks, and good temperaments of these dogs.
