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The 10 Best Dog Breeds for Apartment Living | Buddydoc

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Best dog breeds for an apartment and what to consider

Are you considering adding a new fluffy member of the family to your life, but living in a small apartment? We’re happy to let you know that there are plenty of dog breeds that can thrive in smaller living spaces! Many dogs are perfectly happy living in apartments as long as they get enough daily exercise and mental stimulation through other means.

When it comes to apartment living, choosing the right dog breed is crucial to ensure both you and your new pup are happy and comfortable in your home. While the size of your apartment is an important factor, a dog's breed and temperament can play an even bigger role in determining how well they adjust to smaller living spaces. Fortunately, many dog breeds are well-suited for apartment living. To help you make an informed decision, we've put together a list of the top 10 dog breeds that are well-suited for apartment living. Each breed has their own unique qualities, such as low energy levels or a naturally calm demeanor, that make them more suitable for smaller living spaces.

But choosing the right breed is just the first step. It's also important to know how to care for your new dog in an apartment, and we've got you covered there too. We’ve also come prepared with tips that will help ensure that you and your new dog have everything you need to live a happy and fulfilling life together, no matter the size of your home. Whether you're a first-time dog owner or an experienced one, our list and tips will help you find the perfect breed for your lifestyle and living situation. With the right preparation and care, apartment living with a dog can be a wonderful experience for both you and your new furry family member.

Top 10 best dog breeds for your apartment

Choosing the right dog breed for your apartment requires some research on what your dog’s needs are based on their personality and energy levels. The following list takes into consideration the best personality traits, activity level, shedding and barking tendencies, and more for the best fit for apartment living.

French Bulldog

The first on the list is the French Bulldog, a popular breed known for its small size, affectionate nature, and adaptability to living in smaller spaces. They have a low activity level, making them perfect for apartment living. They are also great with kids and generally well-behaved. French Bulldogs require some grooming to maintain their short coat, and they can be prone to health issues like breathing problems due to their flat faces.
Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers are small and friendly dogs that make great companions for apartment living. They are intelligent, and easy to train, but may require a little more exercise than the rest on the list. They also don't shed much, making them a great choice for those with allergies. Something to consider before looking into Boston Terriers is that they can be prone to certain health issues like allergies and breathing problems.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a gentle and affectionate breed that makes a great apartment dog due to their small size and low activity level. They are also known for being quiet and easygoing, making them a great choice for those living in close quarters. Besides the regular grooming Cavalier King Charles Spaniels require to maintain their long and silky coat, they are generally low-maintenance dogs. They are very calm and great with kids and other animals as well.
Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is a small breed known for its affectionate nature and adaptability to living in smaller spaces. They are low energy and don't require a lot of exercise, making them a great choice for apartment living. However, their long and luxurious coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles. Something to note in raising Shih Tzus is their difficulty level in training, housebreaking them as soon as possible and teaching a few commands early is best.
Pug

Pugs are a popular breed known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They have a low activity level and are adaptable to living in smaller spaces, making them a great choice for apartment living. However, their short snouts can make them prone to breathing problems, and they also shed quite a bit. They make for great apartment pets due to their low maintenance and lazy nature, the perfect homebody companion.
Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are small and can thrive in very little spaces which makes them a great apartment pet. They have a low exercise requirement and are known for their loyal and affectionate nature. Chihuahuas can be prone to certain health issues like dental problems and hypoglycemia but with a little extra care, they can maintain a healthy and happy life in an apartment setting.
Dachshund

Dachshunds, also known as Wiener Dogs, are small and playful dogs that make great companions for apartment living. They are intelligent, easy to train, and have a low exercise requirement. They do have a higher barking tendency but with proper training, they can learn to control the urge to cause any disturbance for your neighbors. Dachshunds are also known to be prone to certain health issues like back problems due to their long spine.
Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier is a small and spunky breed that makes a great apartment dog due to their feisty personality. They do not mind smaller living spaces but may simply require exercise and socialization to be better behaved back at the apartment. They do not shed as much as the other breeds and are very intelligent, making them easy to train.
Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a small and fluffy breed that makes a great apartment pet due to their affectionate nature and low activity level. They are also hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for those with allergies. However, their curly coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Bichons tend to have separation anxiety and do not like being left alone for too long. Besides requiring more attention, they make for a great apartment pets due to their calm demeanor and friendly personality.
Chinese Crested

Chinese Crested dogs are a unique breed known for their hairless or partially hairless appearance. They have a low activity level and are adaptable to living in smaller spaces. However, their hairless skin requires regular grooming and protection from the sun. They are also prone to certain health issues like dental problems and skin irritations. While they are low maintenance, it is best to train them early as possible to prevent any biting or barking toward strangers.

The best dog breeds for small apartments

Here are five dog breeds that we believe are well-suited particularly for smaller apartments:

French Bulldog

With their small size and low exercise requirements, French Bulldogs make great apartment companions. They are known for their affectionate and playful personalities, and their short coats make them easy to care for.
Bichon Frise

These fluffy, cheerful dogs are a great choice for apartment dwellers who want a companion that's small and easy to care for. Bichon Frises are highly adaptable and can do well in a variety of living situations.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

This breed is known for being friendly, affectionate, and adaptable, which makes them great apartment dogs. They have moderate exercise needs and are generally easy to train.
Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers are small, energetic dogs that make great apartment companions. They are friendly and intelligent, and their short coats require minimal grooming.
Shih Tzu

These small, affectionate dogs are known for their friendly personalities and low exercise needs. They are adaptable and can do well in a variety of living situations, including apartments. Their long coats require regular grooming, but they don't shed much.

Tips for dogs in apartments

Now that you've decided on the perfect breed for your apartment lifestyle, it's important to make sure your pup is happy and healthy in their new home.

Here are some tips on how to care for your dog in an apartment:

Regular exercise

Living in an apartment will likely make it harder to give your pet enough exercise during the day. It's even more important to make sure they get enough physical activity to prevent them from becoming bored and destructive in their smaller living environment. Take your dog on daily walks, play fetch in a nearby park, or even consider enrolling them in a doggy daycare for some extra playtime to meet their daily required exercise.
Mental stimulation

In addition to physical exercise, your dog also needs mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. Puzzle toys, treat-dispensing balls, and interactive games are great ways to keep your dog's mind engaged and prevent boredom.
Regular vet check-ups

It's important to take your dog to the vet for regular check-ups, vaccinations, and preventative care. This is especially important in apartment living, where diseases can spread quickly and easily in close quarters.

Frequently asked questions for raising a dog in an apartment

As a dog owner, it's natural to have questions and concerns when it comes to finding the best living situation for your pet. For those who live in smaller spaces like apartments, there are specific factors to consider to ensure that your dog is happy and healthy. We will go over some of the more frequently asked questions regarding raising a dog in apartments.

Can dogs live well in apartments?

Living in an apartment is doable for many dog breeds. However, it's important to keep in mind that not all dogs are suited for apartment living. Some breeds are more adaptable to small spaces and require less exercise than others.

What size dog is best for apartment living?

Size isn't necessarily the most important factor to consider when choosing a dog for apartment living, but generally, smaller dogs tend to do better in small spaces. This is because they require less space to move around and less exercise than larger breeds. However, some larger breeds are also well-suited for apartment living as long as they get enough exercise and mental stimulation.

How much exercise do dogs need in an apartment?

Most dogs need at least 30 minutes of exercise per day, but some breeds require more than others. When living in an apartment, it's important to take your dog on frequent walks and provide them with plenty of mental stimulation through toys, training, and playtime.

Do all dog breeds shed and bark excessively?

No, not all dog breeds shed and bark excessively. Many breeds are known for being low-shedding and quiet. However, it's important to keep in mind that every dog is different and may have unique shedding and barking tendencies. It's important to research specific breeds and meet the individual dog before deciding to bring them into the apartment life.

How can I tell if my dog is happy in my apartment?

Happy dogs are generally relaxed, playful, and well-behaved. Signs that your dog is unhappy in your apartment may include destructive behavior, excessive barking, and aggression. It's important to provide your dog with plenty of mental stimulation, exercise, and attention to ensure their happiness and well-being in an apartment setting.

Things to consider before bringing a dog into your apartment

Research the breed

It's important to research the breed of dog you're interested in adopting to make sure they're a good fit for apartment living. Some breeds, such as the ones mentioned earlier, are more suited for smaller living spaces than others.
Consider energy level

While many dogs can do well in apartments, it's important to consider their energy level. High-energy breeds may require more exercise and mental stimulation, so be prepared to take your dog on frequent walks and provide plenty of toys and games to keep them entertained.
Prepare your home

Before bringing a dog into your apartment, make sure your home is prepared for their arrival. This means removing any potential hazards, setting up a designated sleeping area, and making sure there's plenty of space for your new pup to move around.
Create a routine

Dogs thrive on routine, so it's important to establish a consistent schedule for feeding, exercise, and playtime. This will help your dog adjust to their new living situation and feel more comfortable in your apartment.
Consider hiring a dog walker

If you work long hours or don't have the time to take your dog on multiple walks each day, consider hiring a dog walker to help. This can ensure that your dog gets the exercise they need and helps to prevent any behavioral issues that may arise from boredom while you are away.

Conclusion

Finding the right dog breed for apartment living requires careful consideration of your lifestyle, living space, and the breed's personality and needs. With the right breed and proper care, apartment living can be a great fit for dogs and their owners. Remember to research and consider the breeds that are best suited for smaller living spaces, and always make sure to provide your dog with plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and love. By following the tips and information provided in this article, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect companion for your furry apartment companion!