When most people picture apartment living, they imagine tiny pups tucked into cozy corners. But here’s the truth: size isn’t everything. Some large dog breeds are calm, quiet, and surprisingly good apartment dogs, making them a better match for smaller homes than their yappy little cousins.
According to the AVMA, about 59.8 million U.S. households own dogs, and more and more apartment dwellers are choosing large breeds because of their gentle nature and laid-back nature once they’re grown adult dogs.
Sure, having big dogs in a small space means you’ll need to provide daily walks, mental stimulation, and moderate exercise, but that doesn’t mean they’ll be overly active indoors. Many gentle giants enjoy lounging around, showing off their affectionate nature, and becoming the ultimate furry friend.
If you’re dreaming of one of the biggest dog breeds but still want the comfort of apartment life, you’ll be happy to know that some dog breeds for apartments are surprisingly well-suited to compact spaces. With consistent training, short walks, and plenty of love, these large dogs can thrive in any apartment setting, proving that sometimes the biggest paws make the best cuddle partners.
In this blog, we’ll explore the largest dog breeds that are ideal for apartment living.
Largest Giant Dog Breeds Suited To Apartment Living
1. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are giant, fluffy teddy bears that adore their families. Despite their massive size, they are mellow and affectionate. AKC mentions that they are often called “nanny dogs” because of their gentle nature with children. Instead of running around, they prefer to stay close to their loved ones, making them well-suited for apartment living.
These gentle giants are excellent family pets and thrive in cooler climates. They love water and are natural swimmers, which makes them unique among large breeds.
Because of this, grooming can take extra effort, especially with their thick coat. Newfies are not overly active indoors and are content with daily walks, a little play, and plenty of affection.
Living with such a large dog in a small space can be tricky, but Newfoundlands don’t seem to mind. They often spend their time lounging and may occasionally trip their owners in tight areas.
Because of their size, they need big beds or kennels, which can be a challenge in apartments. Still, with love and space of their own, these calm companions adjust beautifully.
2. Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds are among the tallest dogs in the world, but they are calm and dignified. They are more likely to curl up in a cozy spot than bounce around. These dogs are well-behaved indoors and only need regular exercise to stay healthy. Their quiet and gentle nature makes them great companions for small homes.
Despite their size, they are surprisingly good at adapting to limited living space. Puppies usually house-train easily and need slow walks to protect their growing bodies.
Adult dogs enjoy long walks, but they won’t get upset if they miss one due to bad weather or a late workday. Their coat needs regular grooming to stay free of mats, but otherwise, they are easy to care for.
Irish Wolfhounds are gentle giants who win people over wherever they go. In an apartment complex, expect to get stopped often by curious neighbors asking questions about your “pony-like” dog.
They may take up a lot of room, but with proper care, moderate exercise, and plenty of love, they thrive as calm and affectionate companions.
3. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are famous for their calm temperament and gentle personality. These dogs are incredibly patient and loving, which makes them excellent family companions.
They’re especially good with children and are often described as loyal. They only need daily exercise and play to stay content, which makes them easier to manage than many might expect.
Although huge, Saint Bernards are surprisingly adaptable to different living conditions, even apartment life. They usually remain calm indoors, but house training and consistent routines are very important due to their size.
These dogs are not known for being overly vocal, though they will bark when necessary, so training helps manage noise in close quarters.
Owners must be ready for some challenges. Saint Bernards drool a lot, and their thick coat requires regular brushing to keep shedding under control. They are best suited to cooler climates and need careful attention to avoid health problems common to larger breeds.
4. Mastiff
Mastiffs may be huge, but they are among the best large dog breeds for apartment living. These dogs have a calm demeanor and an easygoing nature that makes them perfect indoor companions.
They are surprisingly low-energy and spend most of their time lounging by your side. Puppies can be playful and a bit destructive, but as they mature, their temperament settles, and they become calm and gentle.
While Mastiffs do not require intense activity, they still need enough exercise to stay healthy. Daily walks and light play help prevent obesity and keep them in good shape. They are generally quiet dogs, but training is important to manage barking in an apartment setting.
Their short coats are low maintenance, though drooling is common and something owners should be prepared for. Proper socialization and positive reinforcement are essential with a breed this large, especially in an apartment environment.
Mastiffs are loyal, affectionate, and good with children and other pets when raised together. They can adapt well to smaller spaces as long as their needs are met, including access to air conditioning in warmer climates.
5. Great Dane
Great Danes are often called gentle giants for their serene nature. Despite being one of the biggest breeds, they adapt well to people who live in an apartment. They love lounging around the house and need only leisurely walks or a relaxed play session to stay happy.
With their mellow temperament, they are far easier to manage indoors than many smaller, more active dogs. As a large breed dog, the Great Dane does need more space to stretch out and feel comfortable. Owners should plan for a bigger couch, a large dog bed, and some extra room for their long legs.
They are highly intelligent and respond well to early training, which helps them navigate apartment life with ease. Their short coat is easy to maintain, though drool cleanup is part of daily life with this breed.
PetMD states that these pups are nicknamed the “Apollo of dogs” and are graceful, loyal, and calm. They enjoy leisurely walks, occasional play at the park, and then long naps beside their families.
While their towering size can seem intimidating, their loving and relaxed nature makes them one of the most surprisingly well-suited large dogs for smaller homes.
6. Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs are large and gentle companions. They are patient and good with kids, often happy to lounge with their families. Indoors, they can be like couch potatoes, enjoying calm moments rather than constant activity. With their thick coats, they do need regular grooming, but their loving personalities make the effort worthwhile.
These dogs enjoy walks and moderate playtime, which helps prevent pent-up energy. They are not overly active indoors, but daily outdoor time is important for their health and well-being.
A larger apartment makes life easier for them since they need enough room to stretch out comfortably. In smaller spaces, owners should stay committed to giving them outdoor exercise and mental stimulation.
Because of their long, thick coats, Bernese Mountain Dogs need regular brushing to stay clean and reduce shedding. They also do better in cooler climates and may struggle with heat, so air conditioning helps in warmer areas.
7. Cane Corso
Cane Corsos are strong, loyal, and protective dogs that form deep bonds with their families. Royal Canin says that their name comes from Latin and translates to “bodyguard dog,” which perfectly reflects their instincts.
Despite their imposing size, they can be gentle with their owners when raised in a caring environment. These dogs need daily walks, play sessions, and mental activities to stay balanced. Without enough exercise or stimulation, they may become restless or develop unwanted behaviors.
They are intelligent and respond well to consistent training. Early socialization is essential to help them feel comfortable around people, children, and other pets. With patience and guidance, they grow into calm and steady companions.
Living with a Cane Corso in an apartment requires planning and commitment. Their short coat is easy to care for, but their guarding nature means training and supervision are very important. While their strength and protective instincts can be intimidating, with the right structure and attention, they can adapt well to smaller spaces.
Conclusion
Living with large dogs in an apartment may seem challenging, but many gentle giants prove that size is not the only factor that matters. With calm personalities, low to moderate energy levels, and a love for family companionship, these breeds can thrive in smaller spaces.
As long as owners commit to daily walks, regular care, and consistent training, these big dogs can be surprisingly comfortable and happy in an apartment setting.
Choosing the right dog is about more than just space; it’s about lifestyle, patience, and commitment. From loyal protectors to affectionate companions, these giant breeds bring love, security, and joy into any home.
With the right balance of exercise, grooming, and attention, apartment dwellers can enjoy the company of a gentle giant who is not only a great pet but also a lifelong friend.
