Some dog breeds are better than others when it comes to living in an apartment. For example, breeds from the herding group often have very high exercise needs, and those from the hunting group can easily become problem barkers.
This is where the importance of researching the traits of different canine breeds becomes a defining factor. There are some breeds that thrive particularly well for people who are renting. And, contrary to popular belief, they’re not all toy breeds. Let’s take a closer look at 5 of them.
1. Boston Terrier
If you’re looking for a small dog with a distinguished look and plenty of personality, then a Boston Terrier is a great choice for apartment living. This little canine companion is 15-17 inches at the shoulders and no more than 25 pounds with a tuxedo-like coat, large loving eyes and ridiculous bat-like ears.
Temperamentally, this lover of the indoors generally has a positive and playful disposition that charms everyone he meets. He’s smart enough to learn new tricks quickly and is very people-oriented. Boston Terriers do have a reputation for being somewhat mischievous, and like most small dogs, they can be difficult to house train.
The Boston Terrier does need daily exercise. However, his small and compact body makes it easy to run him indoors with a good game of fetch. In fact, due to his flat face, outdoor exercise during the heat isn’t recommended.
Because they’re very attached to their people and adore affection, the Boston Terrier can get very lonely if left for a long period of time on a regular basis and isn’t a good choice for people who work long hours away from home.
2. Bichon Frise
If a fluffy pooch is more up your alley, then look no further than the Bichon Frise. This companion breed is simply a delight with a playful disposition and the right stuff for families with small children. Quick to make new friends, the Bichon Frise is a great way to meet new people and she will get along well with your neighbors’ dogs, too.
Another upshot of the Bichon Frise for apartment goers? This breed is among the so-called “hypoallergenic” breeds. Although they still shed some, their long-growth fur does not shed as often, and they tend to produce less dander than many other dog breeds. On the other hand, do plan on learning to use dog clippers or taking her to the groomer every 6-8 weeks for a trim.
One downside of the Bichon Frise is that she can become a problem barker, especially if left alone too often and under-stimulated. Keep her engaged with plenty of attention, games, tricks and lots of fun and you should be able to prevent this problem.
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Some people are looking for a small dog who thrives in apartments who is a little bit more laid back. If you don’t mind a dog with relatively high grooming needs, then a great choice for an affectionate companion dog for renters is the Cavalier King Charles (or for that matter, the King Charles Spaniel, a very similar breed well suited for apartments).
This toy breed comes in at around 13 inches at the shoulders, weighing in at around 15 pounds. Easy to take with you anywhere you go, and generally good with children and strangers, this beautiful and sweet breed ranks 18 on the AKC list of the most popular breeds in the U.S.
They adapt well to active or more sedentary lifestyles. A favorite among those looking for mellow companion dogs, the Cavalier King Charles is also a common breed chosen for therapy dogs, nursing homes and for seniors.
4. Great Dane
Some people think that only small dogs are appropriate for apartments, but there are a few notable exceptions. If your landlord allows larger dogs (some leases have weight limits) then one fantastic choice in a large breed dog is the friendly giant known as the Great Dane.
Coming in around 30 inches at the shoulders, this imposing dog is actually known for a gentle and loving disposition. Although they have relatively low exercise needs, you’ll need to devote at least an hour a day to a brisk walk and have access to some secure areas, such as a dog park for some weekly off-leash play.
Great Danes can become protective of their family members, and some will become problem barkers, particularly if left to become bored. However, when well socialized, they tend to make friends easily and get along well with other dogs and children.
A major downside of all of the giant breeds, including the Great Dane, is a short average lifespan of just eight years. In addition, make sure you have the budget for their rather significant appetites. Adolescent males, for example, can eat as much as 10-15 cups of dog food per day!
5. Greyhound
Finally, we turn to an often overlooked dog breed who does surprisingly well living in an apartment — the Greyhound. They have very low grooming needs, tend to do well alone for those that work long hours and benefit from being kept in pairs.
This beautiful and ancient breed is well known for his couch potato ways, even though they’re the breed of choice for dog racing. In fact, Greyhounds retired from the track are in constant supply, making this breed an easy one to find through rescue organizations devoted to making sure these noble and lovable dogs find forever homes.
As sighthounds, Greyhounds have a bad reputation for mixed pet households. They can “hunt” small animals such as cats, ferrets and rabbits. Careful screening is required if you plan to keep them with other pets.
Although they don’t need much daily exercise, this breed does love to run. Look into lure coursing as a possible weekend activity to keep your Greyhound fit and happy.
Find the right dog for you
Just as important as choosing the right breed of dog is having a plan in place to introduce them to your apartment, whether they’re a puppy or a mature rescue dog, use our guide to kickstart your planning.
