When looking for the best apartment dog breeds, most immediately assume that going smaller is better. However, size is not the deciding factor in apartment-friendliness—energy level, personality, and bark levels are more important. A lot of big dogs are lower-maintenance, needing less exercise, and more than content to stay on the couch, making them great apartment-living dogs.
The key is finding relaxed, laid-back breeds that don’t require hours of daily exercise. Below are the best apartment breeds that prove you don’t need a pint-sized pup to live well in tight spaces.
Surprising Large Breeds That Thrive in Apartments
Great Danes top the list of unexpected apartment champions. Although a large breed, they are not excessively high-energy, with only low to moderate exercise needs. They are often described as “apartment horses” because they are content simply sitting around most of the day.
Key traits that make large breeds apartment-friendly:
- Low to moderate energy levels that require small doses of daily exercise
- Quiet, gentle temperaments that will not disturb neighbors
- Close bonds with owners, preferring to be close rather than lost
A few low-energy large breeds, such as the Bernese Mountain Dog, Newfoundland, and Saint Bernard, will thrive in apartments because they need so little energy. Greyhounds are a surprise choice; while they have a racing background, they’re “40-mile-per-hour couch potatoes” who need short exercises followed by long naps.
Read More: The 10 Most Protective Dog Breeds
Medium-Sized Champions for Small Spaces
Basset Hounds make excellent apartment pets because they are friendly and have low exercise needs. However, owners must understand that Bassets will bark, although their deep bay barking does not occur as frequently as the constant yapping of other smaller dogs.
English and French bulldogs make perfect apartment dogs. They are sturdy, low-energy dogs who prefer air conditioning to a long walk and, most of the time, are quiet except for their normal snoring.
Highly trainable, low-energy dogs like Golden Retrievers, Chinese Shar-Peis, and whippets adore apartments. Even Golden Retrievers, being bigger, can actually thrive in an apartment with adequate daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Read More: 10 Dog Breeds Your Cat Will Love
What to Consider Beyond Breed Size
The best apartment dog breeds share certain characteristics beyond size. The best dog breeds for apartment living require little energy, so a yard is not essential, nor are hours of daily walking. Consider your lifestyle, work schedule, and commitment to morning and evening workouts when making a choice.
Important factors for apartment dog success:
- Exercise requirements: Most low-energy breeds require 30-45 minutes per day of exercise, which can include brief walks
- Noise levels: Choose breeds that are well-known for being quiet
- Size versus energy: A quiet 70-pounder may be better than a high-energy 15-pound terrier
- Trainability: Behaviorally sound dogs accommodate changes to apartment rules and routines more easily
Finding Your Ideal Apartment Companion
Choosing the best apartment dog breeds means going beyond size bias and looking at temperament, energy level, and your ability to provide for their needs. Whether a calm Great Dane seeking a gentle stroll or a laid-back Basset Hound seeking a leisurely walk, it boils down to getting adequate exercise, mental stimulation, and training.
Study breeds heavily, meet with prospective pets in person, and take them home from shelters, where you can learn about unique personalities. Ready to take home an apartment-friendly buddy? Move temperament and energy level ahead of size—your perfect roommate could be bigger than you think.
Read More: The 10 Smallest Dog Breeds
