There are several perks to living in an apartment, such as living in the city and having less to do. But it also entails thinking carefully about your four-legged friend. Not all breeds can handle living in a smaller environment with shared walls and not much outdoor space. A good apartment dog is calm, quiet, adaptable, and doesn’t need a lot of exercise. As living in cities becomes more common, some dog breeds stand out as the best for those who live in apartments in 2025. Here are the finest pets for living in an apartment.
1. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is still the greatest dog for apartments, and that’s not surprising. Because they are small and don’t need a lot of energy, they are great for small spaces. Frenchies are great for people who are busy because they only need a short walk and some playing indoors each day. Because they are so easygoing and loving, they are more likely to be found snoring on the couch than barking all the time, which is a big bonus for living in an apartment. They are also noted for being friendly and like to be around people.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is the perfect dog to sit on your lap. People say that this breed is calm, sociable, and gentle. They are quite flexible and do best when they are close to their owners, which makes them great pets for singles, couples, and families. They don’t need a lot of exercise; a few walks outside and some playtime inside are enough. Because they are peaceful and little, they won’t feel trapped in a small space. If you want a friend who is affectionate and doesn’t need a lot of care, the Cavalier is a fantastic choice.
3. Pug
Pugs are a well-known and liked breed for apartment living because of their wrinkled noses and curly tails. They are noted for being fun but not very active. Pugs are happy with short walks and play inside, and their small stature makes them appropriate for a small environment. They are friendly and joyful dogs who are more likely to welcome you with a snort and a wagging tail than a loud bark. Their brachycephalic (short-nosed) traits, on the other hand, make them sensitive to heat, thus they fare best in air-conditioned rooms indoors.
4. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a great dog for people with allergies. This happy and fluffy breed has a coat that doesn’t shed much and is hypoallergenic, so your flat will stay clean and free of dander. Bichons are playful and loving, but they don’t need a lot of room to run around. They like to go for short walks and play inside. They are easy to train and a lot of fun to be around because they are very joyful and want to please.
5. Greyhound
It might seem strange to put a racing dog on a list of dogs who can live in an apartment, but the Greyhound is a real shock. People commonly call Greyhounds “45-mile-per-hour couch potatoes,” even though they have a history of being sporty. People know them for being peaceful, gentle, and quiet. After a good run at the dog park, they’re happy to spend the remainder of the day relaxing. Because they don’t bark much and are generally calm, they make great and unexpectedly good companions for those who live in apartments.
6. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a great dog for people who live in apartments. These dogs were bred to be friends, therefore they love being around people and being lap dogs. They have little exercise needs and are completely fine with short daily walks and indoor play. Their calm and friendly demeanor means they are not prone to excessive barking. The Shih Tzu’s long, flowing coat does require frequent maintenance, but their low-shedding habit is a huge plus for apartment cleanliness.
7. Boston Terrier
Dubbed the “American Gentleman,” the Boston Terrier is a cheerful and active breed that is well-suited for city life. They are small, compact, and demand a moderate amount of exercise that can be supplied with daily walks and indoor games. Boston Terriers are bright and easy to teach, and their quiet disposition means they won’t disturb the neighbors. They are also noted for their calm and loving disposition, making them perfect family pets.
When choosing a dog for your apartment, remember that size isn’t the sole criterion. A dog’s energy level, noisy inclinations, and flexibility are equally as crucial. With any of these top breeds, you’re not just getting a pet — you’re getting a loyal and loving friend that will enthusiastically join your urban journey.