Living in an apartment and constantly juggling work, errands, social life, and maybe a side hustle! Yeah, tough!
Just because you are that busy, does not mean you can’t have a furry friend waiting for you at home. You just need the right breed. One that fits your living space, your schedule, and your on-the-go lifestyle without turning your apartment into chaos central.
And that’s because… not every dog is for apartment living. Some dog breeds need massive yards, constant stimulation, and hours of outdoor time.
But the great dog breeds for apartment dwellers on the go are chill, adaptable, and totally cool with smaller spaces as long as they get love, a daily walk or two, and maybe some indoor playtime.
So, that’s why we are going to talk about seven such dog breeds for apartment life. Perfect for people who are busy but still need that loyal companion energy in their life.
Fun Fact!
Did you know French Bulldogs were originally bred as companion dogs for lace workers in England? As per French Bulldog Club, when these workers moved to France during the industrial revolution, the dogs went with them and became widely popular in Paris.
Apartment living? They have been doing it since the 1800s!!
Great Dog Breeds for Apartment Dwellers on the Go
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is one of those dog breeds that just gets it. They are calm, affectionate, and, honestly, don’t need much more than your couch, your company, and maybe a soft blanket to curl up on.
Perfect for apartment dwellers who want a dog that is low-key but still full of personality, and oh-so-soft.
As per PetMD, these dogs have moderate exercise needs, so they are well-suited for small spaces. A brisk walk or two during the day, and they are happy. Plus, some mental stimulation. Some cuddle time on the couch after, and they will be even happier.
This Spaniel dog breed is known for being one of the best dog breeds for people who spend time at home but also have busy schedules. They are adaptable, easygoing, and chill for a breed that looks so fancy.
They do need regular grooming to keep that silky coat in check, but other than that, they are pretty low-maintenance. Plus, they get along great with other pets, kids, and basically anyone who gives them attention.
If you are looking for a dog that won’t drive your neighbors crazy with barking and loves apartment life, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a solid #1 choice.
2. Japanese Chin
Fluffy, cute, and cat-like.
Yep, you read that right! The Japanese Chin is basically a dog with cat energy levels. They are quiet, clean themselves like a cat, and love lounging around. And for apartment dwellers, that is kind of perfect.
This Asian dog is one of the best apartment dogs because of their compact size, minimal barking, and low energy levels. They don’t need long walks or high-energy playtime.
Just a short stroll around the block and some time to hang out with you, and they are good.
Japanese Chin are incredibly well-suited for smaller living situations. They are calm, polite, and won’t tear up your apartment if you leave for a few hours (as long as they are properly trained, of course).
As noted by the American Kennel Club, this breed was a favorite among Japanese nobility, which explains the whole “I deserve the finest things” vibes. They also adapt well to different living spaces, which makes them excellent companions for busy dog owners.
And really, they are just cool dogs. Quiet, full of charm, low-maintenance, low-energy companions.
3. Maltese
That insanely cute face!! We agree, the Maltese dog looks like a cute little white cloud, but they have got some personality. They are one of the best dog breeds for apartment living because they are small, adaptable, and don’t need a ton of space to be happy.
A daily walk and some indoor playtime. That’s all these small white dogs really need. They are also great for apartment dwellers who work from home or have flexible schedules because they love being around their people.
Maltese dogs are friendly, playful, and alert.
They will let you know if someone is at the door, but they will never resort to excessive barking. Just enough to keep you informed, you know? But mind you, this can be a vocal breed when you leave them alone for long periods.
Early socialization and proper training are super important if you don’t want your neighbors to sue you.
They do require regular grooming to keep that white coat looking fresh, and if you are okay with that, they will be one of the most loyal and loving small dog breeds. Plus, this small dog gets along well with other dogs (after proper training, obviously).
4. Chinese Crested
Okay, so the Chinese Crested is not your typical-looking dog. Some are hairless (with just a little tuft on their head and paws), and some are fully coated. But either way, they are one of the best dog breeds for apartment living.
And the main reason is that they are calm, quiet, and have minimal exercise needs. A short walk or some playtime indoors is basically enough to keep them active. And, they are also incredibly affectionate dogs who love to spend time with their owners.
Chinese Crested dogs are quite famous for being gentle and low-energy dogs. They bark a little (only as needed), they don’t need too much space (small dog), and they are totally fine hanging out while you work, run errands, or binge-watch your favorite show.
They are also hypoallergenic dogs (the hairless ones, at least), which is a HUGE bonus if you are sensitive to pet dander.
And because they are one of the smaller breeds, they are easy to manage even in compact apartments.
5. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frise just makes you smile, no matter what.
They are friendly, easygoing, and adaptable to apartment living. Even though they are playful, as per PDSA, they don’t have crazy high energy levels, so they are not bouncing off the walls 24/7.
They do well with daily walks and mental stimulation. But they are also happy to chill at home. And because they are one of the best apartment dogs, they are great for people who live in smaller spaces but still want one of the active dogs, who’s also fun-loving.
These dogs are social, gentle, and get along with just about everyone: kids, other pets, other dogs, and even cats. They are also hypoallergenic dogs, which makes them a popular choice for dog lovers with allergies.
They do need regular grooming to keep that fluffy coat in check, but that is part of their charm, like many dog breeds with beautiful coats.
Plus, they have minimal barking compared to many large breed dogs, so your neighbors won’t hate you.
6. Pug
Pugs are the ultimate low-energy companions.
They love food, they love sleep, and they love you. That’s pretty much it.
And for busy apartment dwellers, that is kind of the dream.
Pug, this wrinkly dog breed, does not need tons of exercise. Just a daily walk and maybe some short bursts of playtime. They are also one of the most apartment-friendly dogs because they are compact, gentle, and don’t need a huge living space to be happy.
Pugs are known for their goofy personalities and their love of lounging. They are great with families, singles, older dogs, and other pets. Basically, they are just easygoing all around.
One thing you should keep in mind: they can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. So, they are best for people who work from home or have a dog walker check in during the day.
But, overall, Pugs are one of the best dog breeds for apartment living. They are low-maintenance dogs, loving and totally content with small spaces as long as they get attention and snacks.
7. French Bulldog
The #1 poster dogs for apartment living.
Plus, the #1 most popular dog breed in America, right now.
They are small dogs, quiet (for the most part), and have low exercise needs. A couple of short walks a day, and they are totally satisfied. They fit perfectly into small spaces, they don’t bark excessively, and they are super affectionate with their owners.
French Bulldogs are famous for their bat-like ears, smushed faces, and chill personalities. They are not one of the high-energy breeds by any means. In fact, they’d much rather enjoy lounging on the couch with you than running around a park.
They do well in apartments because they are adaptable, quiet, and don’t need a ton of mental stimulation beyond some toys and quality time. Plus, they are great with kids, other pets, and even strangers (once they warm up). Best breed, whatsoever.
Conclusion
Living in an apartment means you need to pick the right dog. You need to make the best bet with one of these great dog breeds for apartment dwellers on the go.
One that fits your lifestyle changes, living space, energy levels, and even noise levels (yeah, you have to check that, too), no matter if you are an active owner or not.
No matter if you go with a Cavalier, French Bulldog, Boston Terrier, Yorkshire Terrier, Basset Hound, Shih Tzu, Greyhound, etc, there is a furry friend that is perfect for your apartment life.
It could be a small dog, a working breed, a sight hound, even… but these dogs could be a good match with proper training, regular walks, and a little love.
So yeah, apartment living and dog ownership, totally doable!!
