Not all dogs are suited to living in an apartment and not only for the obvious reason; their size. While smaller dogs will typically adapt better in a small environment, there are also a variety of reasons why medium to larger dogs are also a great fit. Here are the top 5 dog breeds that are best suited to sharing your apartment, listed in alphabetical order.
1. Dachshund
The Dachshund dog breed makes for a great apartment friendly pet because of their small size, they don’t require a lot of exercise, and they love to give and receive affection. Other great points about this breed are that they don’t require a lot of grooming and they tend to not shed like many other dogs. The Dachshund will easily adapt to a small environment as long as they are shown affection and leadership from their owner.
2. Labrador Retriever
This dog breed is a popular breed that can be found on many other top lists such as smartest dogs, dogs best suited to families, best hunting dogs, and many others. The Labrador Retriever, although reaching between 60-75 pounds, makes a great apartment companion for a variety of reasons. They generally have a sweet natured temperament, are outgoing, loyal, and love to both receive and give affection. Labrador Retrievers will adapt to almost any loving environment and will be happy even in a smaller sized apartment.
3. Miniature Pinscher
This dog breed makes a great apartment companion for a few reasons, one of which is his size. He is considered a toy-dog and is not only energetic, lively, loyal and always wanting to please, Miniature Pinschers make great watch dogs because they are brave and not afraid to bark at people they don’t know! They can grow to a height of 10-12 inches and can weigh between 8-10 pounds.
4. Pugs
Pugs are well suited to apartment living mainly for the fact that they don’t require a lot of exercise. Being small dogs, this dog breed is friendly and playful, but also falls into the category of being yappers. Because they are so friendly and inviting, they don’t make the best watch dogs, but are loyal and love attention. They can grow to a height of 12-14 inches and can weigh between 13-20 pounds.
5. Shih-Tzu
Shih-Tzu’s are loyal, loving, and don’t require a lot of exercise which makes them great apartment companions. Although this dog breed can be difficult to housebreak, they are generally good natured and love attention. They can grow to a height of up to 11 inches and can weigh between 9-16 pounds.
