If you are craving the companionship of a dog, but live in a small apartment, all is not lost. Many breeds of dogs adapt well to apartment living. Here, our Seattle vets share their top 5 best dog breeds for an apartment.
Finding a Great Apartment Dog
Just because you live in an apartment does not mean you are limited to cats, birds, or rodents as pets. Many dog breeds come in compact sizes and have a variety of apartment-friendly characteristics. Here are a few suggestions to help you find the ideal dog for your apartment lifestyle.
Affectionate & Smart - The French Bulldog
Height: 11 - 13 inches
Weight: Less than 28lbs
Life Expectancy: 10 - 12 years
This affectionate, playful, and intelligent dog, also known as the 'Frenchie,' is gentle and endearing. This dog's sleek smooth coat, muscular body, flat nose, and bat ears give it a unique appearance that you can't help but admire.
French bulldogs make great pets for singles, couples, and even families who live in apartments. It's understandable, given the low exercise requirements and minimal barking. These small dogs are sociable animals who enjoy spending time with their owners, children, and other pets.
Charming & Playful - The Shih Tzu
Height: 9-11 inches
Weight: 9-16lbs
Life Expectancy: 10-18 years
Get a Shih Tzu and you'll laugh all day. These small dogs are ideal for apartment living and have a playful personality! While their lustrous coat requires some grooming to keep it looking its best, the effort will be worthwhile.
Although they enjoy barking, these little guys are friendly with strangers, children, and other pets and don't need much exercise to stay healthy and happy. Shih Tzus adore curling up on their owners' laps and being petted and adored.
Playful & Devoted - The Hairless Chinese Crested
Height: 11-13 inches
Weight: 8-12 pounds
Life expect: 13-18 years
If you want a dog that adapts well to apartment living and doesn't shed or smell like a dog, the Hairless Chinese Crested is the dog for you! These cute dogs have hairless bodies, spotted skin, and fluffy tufts of fur on their head, feet, and tail.
Chinese Crested dogs are extremely loyal to their owners, following them around from room to room. This is the best breed for people who work from home, as opposed to those who spend several hours outside each day. These dogs are playful and require little outdoor exercise, making them ideal for apartment living.
Bold & Curious - The Dachshund
Height: Miniature 5-6 inches | Standard 8-9 inches
Weight: Miniature under 11 lbs | Standard 16-32 lbs
Life Expectancy: 12-16 years
Immediately recognizable, whether you call this breed a 'sausage dog', 'Weiner dog', 'Dashie' or 'Doxie' the dachshund is the perfect size and personality for apartment living. This breed is available in two apartment-friendly sizes (standard and miniature) and three different styles of coat (from smooth to long and luxurious).
Because of their short legs, they don't require (or tolerate) much exercise, but they do have a strong prey drive, which can lead to rash or stubborn behavior. It can be challenging to train these curious dogs to get along with children and other dogs.
Mischievous & Loving - The Pug
Height: 10-13 inches
Weight: 14-18 lbs
Life Expectancy: 13-15 years
Pugs adore their people and enjoy being cuddled. These sturdy little dogs are an excellent choice for apartment dwellers! Pugs are typically quiet and enjoy relaxing at home with their owners.
These dogs are playful and loyal, and they need plenty of social interaction with their owners, children, and other dogs. Their laid-back and lazy personality makes them prone to weight gain, so they must monitor their diet to stay healthy.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.