Some dogs may be tiny, but they can fit into apartment life better than half the humans who move to the city and realize parking alone costs more than rent. And when we talk about finding the best dog breeds under 12 lbs for apartment living, dog owners know something important:
Small dog breeds are not “less”. They are just… compact!
Portable. Snuggly. Quirky.
And perfect for tight hallways, tiny balconies, and yes, those “mini” backyards some apartment complexes advertise (You know, the patch of grass about the size of a doormat).
But…
If you choose the right small dog breed, apartment living becomes easier, calmer, and way more fun. Quiet companions to playful little dogs who thrive in indoor spaces, many dog breeds adapt well to apartment living without needing tons of outdoor exercise or room to zoom.
Today, we will look into nine of the best dog breeds under 12 lbs, the ones with perfect apartment-friendly sizes, big personalities, and the exact traits apartment dwellers love.
Best Dog Breeds Under 12 lbs for Apartment Living
1. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers look like living teddy bears, but these dogs have got attitude. The Yorkie is a classic choice for apartment dwellers because they are small dog with a big personality. And they adapt shockingly well to apartment living.
According to PetMD, the tiny Yorkshire Terrier, affectionately known as the Yorkie, is a spunky and often entertaining companion.
Even though they are light as a feather, they walk around like they own the penthouse, the hallways, the elevator, and the whole building. Yorkies are also intelligent dogs, quick learners, and very confident for their size.
Yorkies tend to bond deeply with their humans, and they are incredibly devoted little dogs. Because they don’t need exercise very much, they fit very well into an apartment lifestyle.
Just remember, these tiny legs may be little, but they still appreciate daily walks to stay healthy and prevent weight gain. Yorkies also do well with children and other pets when socialized early. Hence, great apartment dogs for families, too.
2. Chihuahua
Yes, the Chihuahua. A small dog with a big bark and an even greater sense of importance.
This breed is one of the best dog breeds under 12 lbs for apartment living simply because they are small dogs, portable, loyal, and adaptable. They don’t need much exercise, and they love curling up on their owner’s lap like it is their full-time job.
Chihuahuas come with personality, sass, spunk, and flair. Pick your word.
But behind the dramatic moments, they are incredibly devoted dogs who love sticking close to their humans. And yes, they don’t even exceed 6 pounds in weight.
Chihuahuas thrive in apartment settings because they require minimal space and can enjoy indoor living. And while some may enjoy barking, they are also smart enough to train when you create structure.
These little dogs do well with adults and other kids, and they often get along with other pets when introduced early. Plus, their tiny size means they are one of the most apartment-friendly breeds you can choose.
3. Maltese
Maltese and ‘sweetness’ are synonymous.
These fluffy tufts of fur, adorable dogs are gentle, affectionate, playful, and intelligent. Their calm nature makes them one of the best dog breeds under 12 lbs (under 7 pounds, actually), mostly for people who want a loving lap dog rather than a ‘zooming-around-the-apartment’ dog.
Malteses are known for their silky white coats, fluffy tufts of hair that create a cloud-like look (and yes, apartment neighbors often stop and compliment them in elevators).
These solid little dogs may look delicate, but they are confident and sturdy. They adapt well to apartment living and tend to form close bonds with their humans.
Maltese dogs get along well with children and other pets when you give them proper socialization. And because they don’t need exercise very much, they are a fantastic match for apartment dwellers with busy schedules and indoor lifestyles.
4. Havanese
Havanese dogs are the sunshine wrapped in fur! Cheerful, friendly, social, and completely obsessed with their humans. They are playful and intelligent dogs who love being involved in everything happening around the apartment.
This breed thrives in apartment life thanks to its small size, easygoing personality, and ability to adapt well to apartment living. And yes, their fluffy coats make them even more irresistible.
Havanese dogs are typically between 7 to 13 pounds, as noted by the AKC. That’s why they are perfect for small spaces. They are affectionate and intelligent enough to understand house rules quickly. These dogs adapt beautifully to indoor life but still enjoy outdoor exercise when possible.
They get along with children and other pets and make a great dog for apartment living; for families, singles, or seniors. Just keep an eye on treats! This breed can be prone to weight gain if spoiled too often.
5. Toy Poodle
Smart. Sweet. Apartment-friendly sizes! Big personality in an “itty-bitty package”. The Toy Poodle checks all the boxes.
These are highly intelligent dogs: easy to train, affectionate, playful, and very calm indoors. They make one of the best dog breeds under 12 lbs, weighing only 4 to 6 pounds. And that’s why they are adaptable and quick to understand your lifestyle.
Their curly coat and graceful mannerisms give them a classy look, but trust us, they are just as goofy and fun-loving as any other small breeds.
The Toy Poodle is a perfect small dog with apartment-friendly traits. Perfect for people who want to train these curious dogs, as they are very trainable and people-loving companions. They are great with children and other dogs and love learning tricks.
They don’t shed much and are a popular hypoallergenic dog for people sensitive to dog hair. With regular outdoor exercise, these dogs stay healthy. But not very much exercise. A short walk or indoor play session usually does the trick.
6. Papillon
Papillons are elegant little dogs with butterfly-shaped ears (or bat ears) that make them instantly recognizable. They are light, energetic, loyal, and incredibly friendly dogs, one of the best small dog breeds for people who want a fun-loving character around the home.
Their confidence and intelligence make them quick learners, which helps a ton in apartment life.
At around 5 to 10 lbs, Papillons are a breed for apartment dwellers and adapt very well to apartment living. They are playful and intelligent dogs with a bright and curious personality that fit into any indoor environment.
They go great with other dogs, other pets, and children when you give them early socialization.
And although Papillons may enjoy outdoor exercise, they don’t need excessive activity. With some daily walks and mental stimulation, they are perfectly content living indoors.
7. Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin is basically the definition of “lap royalty”. Calm, affectionate, soulful-eyed, and surprisingly witty. This breed knows exactly how to charm apartment dwellers.
Japanese Chins are the perfect Asian dogs for apartment living! They are indoor-loving dogs who thrive in quiet spaces. They are incredibly devoted to their humans and tend to follow them from room to room like fuzzy shadows.
Weighing around 7 to 11 lbs, the Japanese Chin adapts well to apartment living due to its gentle and low-energy nature. These dogs are typically very quiet (great for shared walls) and form strong bonds with adults.
Japanese Chins do well with other pets, like many dog breeds on this list, and enjoy lounging rather than demanding much exercise.
Basically, if you want a dog that embodies peace, calm, and chill apartment life, this is your ideal breed.
8. Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon may be a tiny dog, but emotionally, they are 6 feet tall. Expressive faces, sleek, smooth coat, muscular body, human-like eyes, and big personalities make this breed unforgettable. They are quirky, loving, comical, and adore being with their people.
Their small size and loyal nature make them great dogs for apartment living.
Typically between 8 to 10 pounds, the Brussels Griffon fits nicely into smaller spaces. They adapt well to apartment life and prefer spending time with their humans rather than being left alone for long periods. Otherwise, your pet’s condition can be very anxious.
These adorable dogs do well with other pets and children when socialized early. They enjoy outdoor exercise, but not very much. A couple of walks and indoor playtime are enough. These small dogs crave companionship. Yes!
9. Chinese Crested
One of the most unique small dog breeds on this list, the Chinese Crested dogs come in two varieties: hairless and powderpuff. Both powderpuff and hairless Chinese Crested weigh from 8 to 12 pounds, as noted by the AKC.
These dogs are highly devoted, incredibly distinctive, with smooth bodies and fluffy tufts of fur on their heads, feet, and tail. They are affectionate, gentle, quiet, and adapt extremely well to apartment living. Because they are light, clean, and typically low-energy dogs indoors, they are a perfect choice for city life.
These dogs tend to bond closely with their owners. The hairless variety has a sleek, smooth coat (or more accurately, sleek, smooth skin and fluffy tufts of hair). And the powderpuff version has a full coat.
Both adapt well to indoor living and usually have minimal barking tendencies. Just remember, their delicate skin needs care to stay healthy. And this does not constitute medical advice regarding pets.
For any skin issues, please talk to your dog’s vet.
Conclusion
So, there it is! The best dog breeds under 12 lbs for apartment living! Finding one does not have to be hard when so many small breeds adapt beautifully to indoor spaces. Be it Papillon, Shih Tzu, the Weiner dog, Dachshund, or French Bulldog, these dogs thrive with attention, gentle training, and consistent routines.
And while many dog breeds can do well in apartments, these nine stand out for their size, personality, and apartment-friendly traits.
Just remember! Every dog ownership should be full of love, structure, and care! Every apartment becomes a happy place with the right dog inside.
