Living in a cozy apartment doesn’t mean you have to give up the dream of having a dog. In fact, some of the best canine companions for city dwellers are also the tiniest. Toy dog breeds are ideal for apartment life thanks to their compact size, minimal space needs, and often gentle temperaments. Whether you’re a homebody looking for a cuddle buddy or simply short on square footage, these petite pups pack a lot of personality into a small package.
Unlike larger breeds that thrive on wide-open spaces and vigorous activity, toy breeds are usually content with short walks and plenty of indoor snuggles. Many are low-shedding, relatively quiet, and well-mannered, qualities that make them perfect for shared walls and close neighbors. Some breeds are also hypoallergenic, adding another bonus for households with allergy concerns.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to the best toy dog breeds for apartment living, each one an adorable, adaptable dog, and ready to become your new favorite roommate. Whether you’re searching for a calm lap dog or a playful pint-sized pal, these breeds were made for city living.
Toy Apartment Dog Breeds
1. Shih Tzu
With roots tracing back to ancient Chinese royalty, the Shih Tzu was bred to be a palace lapdog, and it still carries that air of indoor luxury today. Weighing between 9 and 16 pounds, this compact breed is one of the best apartment dogs. Known for their loving disposition, Shih Tzus are particularly affectionate with children and other pets, making them a popular choice for families and city dwellers alike.
They don’t need much space or exercise, which makes them content companions for both active households and quiet homes. According to the AKC, the Shih Tzu was developed as a household companion and doesn’t need much physical activity. Brief daily walks and some indoor play are enough to meet this small, short-legged dog’s exercise requirements.
Unique Traits
The Shih Tzu’s long, flowing coat may be show-stopping, but it does require frequent grooming. While they are considered low shedders, their hair grows continuously, so regular trims or daily brushing are essential.
Their signature smushy face means you’ll often hear some charming snorts and snores. While they’re playful and outgoing, early training is important, as they can be a bit headstrong, especially when it comes to housebreaking.
Fact: Originally bred to lounge in Chinese palaces, these tiny dogs are happiest snuggled on your lap, bringing joy with their sweet expressions and ever-charming personalities.
2. Maltese
Elegant yet affectionate, the Maltese is a beloved toy breed perfectly suited for apartment living. Weighing under 7 pounds, this Mediterranean native has long been admired for its companionship, tracing its roots back to ancient Greek and Roman times.
PetMD describes the Maltese as a petite dog breed recognized for its elegant, long white coat and lively, fun-loving nature. Known for their cheerful demeanor and lively spirit, Maltese dogs make delightful lap companions and are just as content lounging on the sofa as they are strolling around the block.
Unique Traits
The Maltese stands out for its signature white, silky coat, which, despite appearances, sheds very little. This makes them a popular option for allergy sufferers, though their luxurious fur requires consistent grooming to prevent tangles and matting.
These pups are intelligent and social, often forming strong bonds with their humans. However, they’re prone to separation anxiety, so they thrive best in homes where someone is around for most of the day. Their gentle and trusting nature also means they do well with families and seniors alike.
Fact: Originating from the island of Malta, these furry friends are hypoallergenic in reputation and have been loyal human companions for centuries, even appearing in classical literature.
3. Biewer Terrier
Delightfully dainty and full of charm, the Biewer Terrier (pronounced “beaver”) is a relatively new toy breed that has quickly won hearts with its affectionate personality and eye-catching appearance.
Weighing just 4 to 8 pounds, this cheerful pup is ideal for apartment dwellers. Closely related to the Yorkshire Terrier, the Biewer has a calmer, more easygoing temperament, making it a fantastic companion for those seeking a quieter yet equally loving dog.
Unique Traits
The Biewer’s luxurious tri-colored coat and perky posture give it a refined look, but its heart is all play and affection. Often described as a “Velcro dog,” this breed thrives on human companionship and prefers to stay close to its family.
Unlike many small dogs, it does not do excessive barking, though it will alert you to visitors. Despite its small size, this quiet dog is surprisingly athletic and enjoys short bursts of play. Grooming is manageable with regular brushing and occasional baths to keep their silky coat tangle-free.
Fact: Though this small breed only emerged in the 1980s, it’s already earned a reputation as a whimsical, loyal, and low-shedding companion perfect dog breed for city life.
4. Pug
The Pug is a compact, affectionate charmer with a delightful blend of mischief and devotion, making it a natural fit for apartment life. According to Britannica, the Pug is a toy dog breed likely originating in China and brought to England by Dutch merchants in the late 1600s. With their sturdy build and mellow demeanor, Pugs are happy to lounge by your side for most of the day.
They require minimal space and moderate exercise, making them great for smaller living quarters. These lovable companions are also known to get along well with kids and other pets, offering a joyful and loyal presence in any home.
Unique Traits
From their deeply wrinkled foreheads to their curled tails and short snouts, Pugs have an unmistakable look that pairs perfectly with their comedic personality. Though low-maintenance in grooming, they do shed quite a bit and can be prone to weight gain, so portion control is important.
Their brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure means they’re sensitive to heat and should avoid strenuous activity in warm or humid weather. Despite their couch potato reputation, they enjoy playtime, just don’t expect them to bring the ball back every time.
Fact: While Pugs are known for their love of lounging, their friendly nature and charming quirks make them standout companions for apartment dwellers everywhere.
5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Elegant yet affectionate, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a toy breed with a royal history and a heart full of love. Weighing in at 13 to 18 pounds, these graceful dogs are slightly larger than most toy breeds, but their gentle temperament and adaptable nature make them an ideal fit for apartment living.
Whether they’re chasing toys across your living room or curling up on your lap for a cozy nap, Cavaliers are happiest when they’re close to their humans.
Unique Traits
Descended from sporting dogs, Cavaliers still carry a playful streak and a moderate energy level, so they enjoy regular walks and indoor playtime. While they’re eager to please and relatively easy to train, their natural curiosity and mild prey drive mean they may try to chase squirrels or birds when outside.
Their long, silky coats require regular brushing to prevent mats and keep them looking their best. Their expressive eyes and warm demeanor make them instant favorites wherever they go.
Fact: With noble roots tracing back to 17th-century England, these floppy-eared companions were bred to be both lapdogs and playful sidekicks, a combination that still shines in city apartments today.
6. Affenpinscher
Don’t let their small stature fool you, the Affenpinscher is a bold and spirited toy breed packed with charm and mischief. They are great apartment dogs. Weighing just 7 to 10 pounds and standing under 12 inches tall, this compact companion thrives in apartment settings.
While they may not be the best fit for homes with young children, Affenpinschers form close bonds with their adult humans and bring plenty of personality to urban living. Their moderate energy levels make them playful indoors, and they’re always ready to entertain with their curious and comical behavior.
Unique Traits
Often described as having a “monkey-like” expression, the Affenpinscher sports a wiry, shaggy coat that adds to its quirky appeal. Their fur doesn’t shed much but does require regular brushing and trimming to stay tidy.
This breed is fearless and independent, which can make training a bit of a challenge, but their loyal and affectionate nature makes the effort worthwhile. Expect a pup that brings laughter, sass, and cuddles in equal measure.
Fact: With a name that means “monkey terrier” in German, this small dog breed is as playful and amusing as its name suggests, always ready to clown around and steal the spotlight.
7. Havanese
Affectionate, lively, and endlessly charming, the Havanese is a natural fit for apartment dwellers looking for a cheerful, compact companion. Weighing between 7 to 13 pounds and standing just under a foot tall, this Cuban native is well-suited to smaller living spaces.
Their sociable personality makes them a hit with everyone they meet, from neighbors to other dogs, and they adapt easily to household routines. Their intelligence and affectionate nature also make them excellent candidates for emotional support or therapy dog work.
Unique Traits
The Havanese sports a long, silky coat that ranges from straight to wavy, and while they are a hypoallergenic breed, regular grooming is a must to prevent tangles and maintain their coat’s signature softness.
Despite their manageable size, they’re fairly energetic and enjoy short walks and active play sessions. Training comes easily to them, though housebreaking may require a bit more consistency and patience. Their upbeat spirit and eagerness to please make them delightful learners overall.
Fact: With a lineage tracing back to 1500s Cuba, the Havanese has won hearts for centuries, and remains one of the excellent companion dogs and adaptable toy breeds today.
Conclusion
When it comes to finding the perfect pup for apartment living, toy dog breeds offer a delightful blend of personality, adaptability, and charm. Breeds like the regal Shih Tzu and the quirky Affenpinscher prove that good things truly come in small packages. These pint-sized companions don’t need much room to roam, but they bring a whole lot of love and entertainment into even the smallest of spaces.
Unlike large breed dogs, toy breeds require less exercise and can easily adapt to a quieter, indoor lifestyle. From the affectionate Bichon Frise to the clever Miniature Poodle, each has unique breed characteristics that make them ideally suited to cozy city homes. While some, like the Boston Terrier, are known for their friendliness and trainability, others, such as Italian Greyhounds, win hearts with their elegance and calm demeanor. Even lesser-known small companions like the American Eskimo Dog (in toy or miniature variety) offer apartment dwellers a bright, social spirit in a manageable size.
Though many dog breeds can adapt to apartment life, toy breeds consistently top the list for their compact size and loving nature. Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or looking to downsize from a Basset Hound, there’s a perfect toy companion ready to fit right into your lifestyle.
