Life in a condo doesn’t mean sacrificing the companionship of a four-legged friend. In fact, many dog breeds are perfectly suited for compact living and can become great apartment dogs because they can thrive in apartments or condos with the right care and attention. From small lapdogs to some surprisingly adaptable larger breeds, finding the perfect canine companion for your urban lifestyle is entirely possible.
But not every dog is a match for tight spaces. Before welcoming a furry friend, it’s essential to consider factors like barking tendencies, energy levels, and shedding. Some dogs need only a brisk walk and a cozy corner, while others require more stimulation, both physical and mental, to avoid destructive boredom. Puzzle toys, training games, and regular outdoor time can help condo dogs feel happy and balanced.
Most importantly, be mindful of your building’s pet policies, which may restrict certain breeds or impose size limits. With thoughtful planning and the right match, your condo can become a shared haven of comfort, companionship, and tail-wagging happiness.
Dog Breeds That Love Condo Living
1. Basset Hound
With their compact frame and laid-back demeanor, Basset Hounds are a natural fit for condo dwellers. Topping out at around 65 pounds and standing no taller than 15 inches, these mellow pups don’t demand much space or intense exercise. PetMD states that Basset Hounds are typically friendly and even-tempered.
They are easily identified by their short legs, smooth coat, droopy facial features, wrinkled skin, and a tendency to drool. A leisurely daily stroll suits them just fine, and they’re more likely to nap in a sunbeam than sprint laps around the living room. Their deep bark might occasionally echo through the hall, but overall, they make calm, manageable roommates, especially in pet-friendly buildings.
Temperament
Basset Hounds are sociable, affectionate, and incredibly tolerant, making them ideal companions for families, singles, or seniors. Their friendly nature helps them adapt quickly to new people and environments, and they’re rarely ruffled by other pets.
While they do have a streak of stubbornness, they’re usually eager to please and respond well to patient training. Their temperament is well-suited to the steady rhythm of condo life, offering affection without overwhelming energy.
Fun Fact: Basset Hounds are known for their powerful noses, second only to the Bloodhound in scent-tracking ability.
2. Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are practically made for city life. They have a low-maintenance coat and moderate energy levels. With just a couple of brisk walks a day and some light playtime, they’re perfectly content lounging beside their humans or snuggling under the covers. They don’t demand much space, but they do appreciate affection and mental stimulation to stay well-behaved indoors.
Though they don’t require intense exercise, Boston Terriers benefit from engaging activities like puzzle toys or even beginner agility courses to keep their minds active. Their manageable size, typically under 25 pounds, and minimal shedding make them an easy fit for small homes and close neighbors.
Temperament
Boston Terriers are cheerful, affectionate, and always eager to be involved in family life. According to the AKC, the Boston Terrier is sociable, intelligent, and entertaining. They thrive on human interaction and are known for their friendly demeanor and playful attitude.
These intelligent little dogs are fast learners and respond well to positive reinforcement, making them easy to train and a delight to live with in close quarters.
Fun Fact: Boston Terriers are nicknamed the “American Gentleman” for their tuxedo-like coat and charming personality.
3. Dachshund
They have unmistakably long bodies and tiny legs. Britannica describes the Dachshund as a hound and terrier breed that originated in Germany, specifically bred to chase badgers into their dens. Their compact size and low exercise needs make them ideal for smaller spaces. These spunky little dogs are content with short daily walks and enjoy indoor play just as much.
Despite their small stature, they possess an impressive bark, often letting their voices be heard when strangers or other dogs approach. A smooth-coated Dachshund is particularly low-maintenance for grooming, though wire-haired and long-haired types may need extra attention. Though they are excellent apartment dogs, Dachshunds have bold personalities that shine brightly, making them lively companions in close quarters.
Temperament
Dachshunds are playful, curious, and brimming with character. They’re affectionate with their families and love to be involved in whatever’s happening. While they may show a stubborn streak, consistent and positive training goes a long way. Their alert nature also makes them good watchdogs in a condo setting.
Fun Fact: Dachshunds don’t require long outdoor sessions; after a short walk, they’re perfectly content to curl up for a nap indoors.
4. French Bulldog
They have a compact build, quiet demeanor, and moderate activity needs. PDSA reports that French Bulldogs were originally developed as companion dogs, making them highly people-focused and prone to distress when left alone, even briefly. They do best with owners who are home most of the time.
These cheerful companions don’t require large yards or intense workouts, just a short, brisk walk and some indoor play keep them content. Their low barking tendency means they’re unlikely to disturb the neighbors, a key trait for high-density housing. Plus, their smooth, low-maintenance coat and friendly personality make them an effortless choice for urban dwellers.
Temperament
French Bulldogs are charming, affectionate, and even-tempered. They form strong bonds with their people and are known for being sociable with guests, children, and other pets alike.
Though they can have a stubborn streak, their eagerness to please usually wins out, especially when paired with attention and praise. These little clowns bring joy to any home, often entertaining their owners with their quirky behavior and alert expressions.
Fun Fact: French Bulldogs rank fourth on the American Kennel Club’s list of most popular dog breeds as of 2019.
5. Greyhound
They are famous for their speed on the track. While they do appreciate a good sprint now and then, they lack the stamina to require long periods of exercise. A calm walk and a comfy spot to lounge are usually all they need.
Their quiet nature and love of lounging make them ideal neighbors in multi-unit buildings. With minimal grooming needs and a gentle demeanor, they’re a low-maintenance, peaceful presence in smaller living spaces.
Temperament
Greyhounds are intelligent, affectionate, and quietly observant. Known for their calm indoor behavior, they often prefer lounging close to their humans over hyperactivity. These graceful dogs tend to form strong emotional bonds and can be sensitive to being left alone, which makes early training for separation anxiety beneficial. Despite their athleticism, they are gentle and surprisingly reserved, thriving best in a quiet, comforting environment where they feel secure.
Fun Fact: Despite being one of the fastest dog breeds, Greyhounds are famously known as “45-mph couch potatoes” due to their love of napping.
6. Poodle
While all Poodles have a high energy level, their intelligence and responsiveness make it easy to channel that energy into indoor games or short outdoor outings. The Toy and Miniature types are especially suitable for smaller homes, as they can burn off energy inside. Standard Poodles, though larger, are often calmer indoors but still benefit from daily walks.
Temperament
Poodles are known for their keen intelligence and affectionate nature. They are quick learners, eager to please, and thrive on mental stimulation and routine. These dogs tend to be gentle and friendly with family members, though they may be slightly reserved around strangers.
With consistent socialization, their naturally cheerful and intuitive personality shines through, making them a warm and delightful condo companion.
Fun Fact: Though hypoallergenic and non-shedding, Poodles require regular brushing and professional grooming to maintain their signature curly coat.
7. Pug
They have minimal barking and a go-with-the-flow personality. These little charmers don’t need sprawling yards or hours of running, short daily walks and indoor play keep them happy and healthy.
Thanks to their laid-back attitude and relatively quiet nature, they won’t stir up complaints from neighbors. Their snore-filled naps and goofy grins bring a comforting, comedic presence to any living space.
Temperament
Pugs are affectionate, cheerful, and even-tempered dogs. They thrive on companionship and love being part of family routines. With their friendly disposition and playful spirit, they get along well with children, guests, and other pets.
Their curious minds and loyal nature make them eager to please, while their mellow attitude keeps things calm indoors. Pugs are gentle yet comical souls, always ready to cuddle or chase a toy with equal enthusiasm.
Fun Fact: Pugs have smooth double coats and come in just two colors, fawn or black, making grooming simple for condo dwellers.
8. Shih Tzu
These charming little companions need only light daily exercise and adapt easily to smaller spaces. Known for their long, flowing coats and aristocratic lineage, they’ve been city dwellers since the days of Chinese royalty.
Despite their regal appearance, Shih Tzus are playful and friendly, often content to lounge at home while you’re away, making them an excellent option for condo residents with busy schedules.
Temperament
Shih Tzus are known for their affectionate, sociable, and alert nature. They thrive on companionship and love being around their humans, often forming deep emotional bonds. These dogs are also quite intelligent and outgoing, making them excellent with both children and other pets. Their charming disposition and eagerness to please allow them to bring warmth and joy into any home.
Fun Fact: Shih Tzus were once cherished by Chinese nobles as loyal companions and are still adored today for their cuteness and apartment-friendly personality.
9. Chihuahua
Tiny but packed with confidence, the Chihuahua is the best dog breed to live in apartment living and condo environments, thanks to its petite size and bold personality. These small dogs are surprisingly energetic, needing daily play and short walks, but their small stature means they don’t require much space to burn off steam.
They are good apartment dogs. While some Chihuahuas can be a little yappy, consistent training can keep their vocal tendencies in check, making them a better fit for noise-sensitive buildings.
Temperament
This small dog breed is alert, loyal, and full of spirit. They’re deeply attached to their owners and often prefer staying close, whether snuggled on a lap or tucked inside a bag. They’re fearless and protective, sometimes acting as if they’re much larger than they really are. They thrive on companionship and tend to do best in homes where they’re not left alone for long stretches of time.
Fun Fact: Weighing under 6 pounds, Chihuahuas are often seen in purses or carriers, not just for cuteness, but because their size makes them ideal travel and city companions.
Conclusion
Choosing the right dog for your condo isn’t just about size; it’s about temperament, energy levels, and how well your new companion adapts to compact living. Breeds like the French Bulldog and Chihuahua excel in smaller spaces thanks to their affectionate natures and manageable grooming. These traits make them excellent dogs for apartments, especially when combined with proper mental stimulation and attention.
If you’re still exploring options, consider other apartment-friendly pups like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or Italian Greyhounds, both known for their calm and adaptable personalities. Toy breeds, in general, tend to thrive in cozy homes. Looking for a low-shedding companion? Hypoallergenic dogs like the Bichon Frise add charm without triggering allergies. With the right match, your condo can become the perfect retreat for both you and your furry friend.
