Living in a small space doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the warmth and love of a dog. These furry companions have an incredible ability to fill any home, no matter how tiny, with joy, loyalty, and heart.
While small frames might seem like the obvious choice for apartment living, it’s truly a dog’s temperament that makes the difference.
Pairing the right personality, calm, gentle, and easygoing, with your lifestyle can make even the coziest flat feel complete. And sometimes, even larger breeds with steady, peaceful natures prove just as perfect, showing that it’s not size but serenity that matters most.
Whether big or small, these dogs bring affection, comfort, and balance into your daily life, making them wonderful companions, especially for first-time pet parents. Let’s explore their remarkable temperaments and discover which one might just be your ideal match.
Most Laid Back Popular Dog Breeds For Small Homes
1. Basset Hound
Did you know that Basset Hound carries more bones for each pound of their weight than any other dog breed, as reported by the AKC. They are well-suited for apartment living because they are relatively bark-less and considered among the list of quiet dog breeds.
Short but sturdy Basset was bred to hunt, but now they are perfect pet companions. These dogs are known for having a sleek but low-shedding coat and a strong nose that may get you in trouble. The typical behavior of this hound breed is very affectionate and friendly.
These low-energy pals love lounging, but pet parents should be determined for their physical exercise. They may not run fast, but they are famous for their endurance. These independent dogs thrive in human companionship, but obedience training is a challenge for owners.
The Basset Hound has a reputation for being lazy. It is generally calm and easygoing, saving its energy for the hunt or the race to the dinner bowl. Its laid-back approach to life can make training a challenge, as it generally refuses to do anything quickly, as mentioned by Britannica.
2. French Bulldog
When demeanor and appearance blend perfectly, they create French Bulldogs. However, they might look similar to Pugs and Bulldogs. These classic shadow dogs carry a playful and adaptable nature together. They can be fit in small spaces as well as open homes.
These silly dogs have an affectionate nature and want to be around their owners all the time. They may get jealous and have priority issues if not socialized and trained at an early stage of their lives. Frenchie is an excellent apartment dog because they are very friendly with everyone.
Their energy levels are low, and that’s why they do not need an active lifestyle. Besides, they can accompany you on your adventures to take them for short walks. These lazy dogs also like their naps in the sun more than anything else. One hour of exercise is enough for this priciest Bulldog’s healthy life.
3. Bulldog
The dog breed with its wrinkly face and incredibly loving nature has won the hearts of many. The medium-sized muscular Bulldogs have comical expressions, thanks to their droopy jowls and pushed-in nose.
History reveals that this powerful and sporty dog breed was used to attack the bulls due to its tenacious and courageous aura.
Despite the horrific past, today, Bulldogs enjoy being couch potatoes all day. Their devoted and loving behavior helps them form a strong bond with their family members. They are known as the best apartment dogs due to having calm demeanor indoors.
In the present, Bulldogs prefer leisure time over working. Regardless of their medium size, they love to be cuddled. To keep them healthy, physical and mental stimulation is crucial, such as short walks and interactive games. Being a brachycephalic breed, they should be supervised outdoors in humid weather.
4. Clumber Spaniel
Winsome and genial describe the large dog breed Clumber Spaniel, which is also one of the calmest dog breeds. These dogs are extremely ardent and thrive in human closeness. It was originally bred for retrieving games for the British aristocracy.
Owing to a strong sense of smell, Clumber Spaniels are the reason behind the popularity of other spaniel breeds, says PetMD. They make great pets for families with children and other family animals by virtue of their gentle and well-mannered approach. However, they do not get excited easily.
Being an intelligent breed along with a strong desire to please, they are highly trainable. They are blessed with a relaxed disposition and do not demand much exercise. Daily walks and fetch game can meet their physical and mental needs. This makes them the best dogs for small living spaces.
5. Shih Tzu
A small dog breed but with a big personality, the Shih Tzu makes a close emotional attachment with one person only. The tiny package fits any living situation with its loving and lenient temperament.
Being a small-sized snuggling partner, the Shih Tzu loves cozy spaces and is the right dog for those who love closeness.
They may be prone to suffering anxiety and are not suitable for people with busy lifestyles. Though this small dog is lively and playful but its exercise needs are not huge. The energy levels of Shih Tzu can be managed indoors and do not require large yards. They also get along with other pets if properly trained and socialized.
According to Britannica, the Shih Tzu is not a low-maintenance breed because of its long coat that needs regular brushing. This compact-sized intelligent breed may become stubborn, and makes training a challenge. Positive reinforcement methods should be used to overcome this problem.
6. Pekingese
Pekingese is counted among the smaller breeds and was bred for Chinese emperors. PDSA states, these extrovert dogs love to listen to their own voices; one should have noise tolerance if he is thinking of adopting a Peke.
Pekingese always get excited in human contact, and they are also called lapdogs. Moreover, they love to do nothing and enjoy short walks only, which makes them a perfect fit for apartment dwellers. The alertness in their personality gives them a status of great watchdogs for your limited space.
Though the exercise requirements are not high, Peke still needs to be physically and mentally fit. Indoor playtime and short but regular walks are crucial, and making a matchless choice for seniors and busy households. The luxurious coat of the Pekingese needs lots of time for grooming.
Pekingese are naturally dignified and prefer a slower pace. They enjoy lounging around and observing rather than running in circles.
7. Havanese
The companion dog has earned the status of national pup of Cuba, stemming from their affectionate and approachable nature. Owing to its tiny size, the Havanese is a perfect fit for apartment life. These dogs are bred for companionship, and they bloom seamlessly in this purpose.
Thirty minutes of exercise twice a day is considerable for this low-energy breed. This dog also gets along with people, as the Havanese welcomes everyone without any reluctance. Havanese is a people-oriented breed and the smartest dog as well, which means it is exceptionally responsive.
They are not very clingy dogs, so they enjoy their alone time as well. To make them one of the best dog breeds for smaller homes, the frequent barking behavior should be avoided through proper training.
Fun Fact: This dog is famous with some other names such as Havana Silk Dog and Spanish Silk Poodles.
Conclusion
These furry friends stand as proof that one can bring joy and warmth to small homes without having boundless energy. These canine pals are loved not only for being cuddling partners but also the empathetic souls for their humans.
Whether it’s the royal dog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, or the smartest one, Bichon Frise, they all will excel in human companionship to create a happy life.
