Best Dog Breeds for Apartments in 2025

As urban living continues to rise, more and more people are seeking furry companions that can thrive in apartment settings. When choosing the perfect apartment dog, it’s essential to consider factors such as size, energy level, barking tendencies, and overall temperament. The ideal apartment dog should be adaptable, friendly, and content with indoor living and moderate exercise.

In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 dog breeds that are well-suited for apartment life in 2025. From the charming French Bulldog to the gentle Shih Tzu, these breeds have been carefully selected based on their compatibility with smaller living spaces, lower exercise needs, and friendly dispositions.

Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or a seasoned pet parent looking for a new addition to your family, this guide will help you find the perfect canine companion for your apartment lifestyle. We’ll delve into the unique characteristics, needs, and quirks of each breed, providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision and create a happy, harmonious home for you and your furry friend.

So, let’s dive in and discover the top dog breeds that are sure to thrive in your apartment and bring joy to your life in 2025!

1. French Bulldog

✅ Size: Small (16-28 lbs)

✅ Energy Level: Low to moderate

✅ Barking Level: Low

✅ Temperament: Affectionate, easygoing, playful

French Bulldogs have skyrocketed in popularity over the past decade, and it’s easy to see why. These charming, compact dogs are the perfect companions for apartment dwellers. With their small size and low to moderate energy levels, they don’t require a lot of space or extensive exercise. A short daily walk or a playful session indoors is usually enough to keep them happy and healthy.

One of the most appealing aspects of French Bulldogs is their affectionate and easygoing nature. They love nothing more than cuddling up with their owners and showering them with love. Their quiet demeanor and low barking tendencies make them ideal for apartment living, as they’re less likely to disturb neighbors or cause a commotion.

French Bulldogs are also known for their adaptability and ability to thrive in various living situations. Whether you live in a cozy studio or a spacious loft, these dogs can easily adjust to their surroundings. They’re content lounging on the couch, playing with their favorite toys, or simply following their owners from room to room.

While French Bulldogs are generally low-maintenance, they do have some specific needs that potential owners should be aware of. Due to their flat faces and short snouts, they can be prone to breathing difficulties and may not tolerate extreme temperatures well. It’s essential to keep them cool in hot weather and provide them with a comfortable, air-conditioned environment.

Overall, French Bulldogs are an excellent choice for apartment dwellers looking for a loving, low-maintenance companion. With their endearing personalities and adaptable nature, these small dogs are sure to bring joy and laughter to any home.

2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

✅ Size: Small (13-18 lbs)

✅ Energy Level: Moderate

✅ Barking Level: Low to moderate

✅ Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, adaptable

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are the epitome of a gentle, well-mannered companion. These small dogs are known for their sweet, affectionate nature and their ability to adapt to various living situations. They are an excellent choice for apartment dwellers, as they don’t require a lot of space and are content with moderate exercise.

One of the most endearing qualities of Cavaliers is their love for human companionship. They thrive on attention and affection from their owners and are happiest when they’re by your side. Whether you’re watching TV, working from home, or simply relaxing, your Cavalier will be right there with you, offering comfort and support.

Despite their gentle nature, Cavaliers do have a moderate energy level and enjoy daily walks and play sessions. However, they don’t require extensive exercise and can easily adapt to the activity level of their owners. A few short walks a day and some indoor playtime are usually sufficient to keep them happy and healthy.

Cavaliers are also known for their intelligence and trainability. They are eager to please their owners and respond well to positive reinforcement training. This makes them an excellent choice for first-time dog owners or those who want a well-behaved, easy-to-train companion.

Another advantage of Cavaliers is their low to moderate barking tendencies. While they may alert you to visitors or unusual sounds, they are not typically excessive barkers. This makes them a good fit for apartment living, as they’re less likely to disturb neighbors or cause a noise complaint.

Overall, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are a wonderful choice for apartment dwellers looking for a gentle, affectionate, and adaptable companion. With their sweet nature and moderate exercise needs, these small dogs are sure to bring love and joy to any home.

3. Greyhound

✅ Size: Large (50-85 lbs)

✅ Energy Level: Low

✅ Barking Level: Low

✅ Temperament: Gentle, calm, independent

While Greyhounds may seem like an unusual choice for apartment living due to their large size, these gentle giants are actually well-suited for smaller spaces. Known for their calm, laid-back nature, Greyhounds are often referred to as “45 mph couch potatoes” because they love nothing more than lounging around with their owners.

Despite their reputation as racing dogs, Greyhounds have relatively low energy levels and don’t require a lot of exercise. A daily walk and the occasional opportunity to run in a safe, enclosed area are usually enough to keep them happy and healthy. This makes them an excellent choice for apartment dwellers who may not have access to a large yard or extensive outdoor space.

One of the most appealing aspects of Greyhounds is their gentle, affectionate nature. They are known for their sweet, sensitive personalities and their love of human companionship. While they may be initially reserved with strangers, they quickly warm up to their owners and become loyal, devoted companions.

Greyhounds are also known for their low barking tendencies, which is a significant advantage for apartment living. They are not typically vocal dogs and are less likely to disturb neighbors or cause a noise complaint. However, it’s important to note that they can sometimes be prone to separation anxiety, so it’s essential to provide them with plenty of attention and mental stimulation when you’re away.

Another advantage of Greyhounds is their adaptability to various living situations. Whether you live in a cozy studio or a spacious loft, these dogs can easily adjust to their surroundings. They are content lounging on a soft bed or cuddling up with their owners on the couch.

Overall, Greyhounds are a surprising but excellent choice for apartment dwellers looking for a gentle, low-energy companion. With their calm nature, low exercise needs, and affectionate personality, these large dogs are sure to bring peace and joy to any home.

4. Dachshund

✅ Size: Small (11-32 lbs)

✅ Energy Level: Moderate

✅ Barking Level: Moderate

✅ Temperament: Loyal, playful, intelligent

Dachshunds, often affectionately referred to as “wiener dogs,” are small, lively companions that can thrive in apartment settings. These long-bodied, short-legged dogs are known for their playful, affectionate nature and their loyalty to their owners.

Despite their small size, Dachshunds have a moderate energy level and enjoy regular exercise. However, their exercise needs can often be met with short walks and indoor play sessions, making them well-suited for apartment living. They are also intelligent dogs that enjoy mental stimulation, so puzzle toys and interactive games can help keep them entertained and engaged.

One of the most appealing aspects of Dachshunds is their big personalities in a small package. They are known for their boldness, curiosity, and sometimes stubborn nature. While this can make them a bit challenging to train, it also adds to their charm and makes them entertaining companions.

Dachshunds are also known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners. They love being close to their human family and often enjoy cuddling up on the couch or following their owners from room to room. This makes them excellent companions for those who spend a lot of time at home or work from home.

However, it’s important to note that Dachshunds can be prone to barking, which can be a concern for apartment dwellers. Early training and socialization can help mitigate this tendency, but potential owners should be aware that these dogs may be more vocal than some other breeds.

Another consideration for Dachshund owners is their potential for back problems due to their long spines. It’s essential to prevent them from jumping on and off furniture and to provide them with a diet that promotes a healthy weight. Regular exercise can also help strengthen their muscles and support their backs.

Overall, Dachshunds are a delightful choice for apartment dwellers looking for a small, playful, and loyal companion. With their moderate exercise needs and affectionate nature, these dogs can bring joy and laughter to any home, as long as their barking tendencies are addressed through proper training.

5. Pug

✅ Size: Small (14-18 lbs)

✅ Energy Level: Low to moderate

✅ Barking Level: Low

✅ Temperament: Sociable, affectionate, easygoing

Pugs are another popular choice for apartment dwellers due to their compact size, friendly disposition, and adaptable nature. These charming, wrinkly-faced dogs are known for their love of human companionship and their ability to thrive in various living situations.

One of the most appealing aspects of Pugs is their sociable, outgoing personality. They love being around people and are known for their ability to get along with everyone, including children, other dogs, and even cats. This makes them excellent companions for those who live in apartment complexes or have frequent visitors.

Despite their small size, Pugs have a moderate energy level and enjoy regular exercise. However, their exercise needs can often be met with short walks and indoor play sessions, making them well-suited for apartment living. They are also content to lounge around with their owners, making them great companions for those who enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle.

Another advantage of Pugs is their low barking tendencies. While they may alert their owners to visitors or unusual sounds, they are not typically excessive barkers. This makes them a good fit for apartment living, as they’re less likely to disturb neighbors or cause a noise complaint.

However, it’s important to note that Pugs are prone to obesity, which can lead to various health problems. Regular exercise and a balanced diet are essential to keep these dogs at a healthy weight. Potential owners should also be aware that Pugs can be prone to respiratory issues due to their flat faces, so it’s crucial to keep them cool in hot weather and avoid overexertion.

Overall, Pugs are a delightful choice for apartment dwellers looking for a sociable, affectionate, and adaptable companion. With their friendly nature, low barking tendencies, and moderate exercise needs, these small dogs are sure to bring joy and companionship to any home.

6. Bichon Frise

✅ Size: Small (12-18 lbs)

✅ Energy Level: Moderate

✅ Barking Level: Low

✅ Temperament: Cheerful, intelligent, hypoallergenic

Bichon Frises are small, cheerful dogs that are well-suited for apartment living. These fluffy white dogs are known for their friendly, outgoing personalities and their ability to adapt to various living situations.

One of the most appealing aspects of Bichon Frises is their hypoallergenic coat. While no dog is completely allergen-free, Bichon Frises shed very little and produce less dander than many other breeds. This makes them an excellent choice for apartment dwellers who suffer from allergies or have sensitivity to pet hair.

Bichon Frises have a moderate energy level and enjoy regular exercise. They love going for walks, playing with toys, and engaging in interactive games with their owners. However, their exercise needs can often be met with indoor play sessions and short walks, making them well-suited for apartment living.

Another advantage of Bichon Frises is their intelligence and trainability. They are eager to please their owners and respond well to positive reinforcement training. This makes them easy to train and helps them adapt to the rules and routines of apartment living.

Bichon Frises are also known for their cheerful, affectionate nature. They love being around people and thrive on human companionship. This makes them excellent companions for those who spend a lot of time at home or work from home.

However, it’s important to note that Bichon Frises require regular grooming to maintain their fluffy white coat. They need to be brushed several times a week and trimmed every few months to prevent matting and keep their coat looking neat and tidy.

Overall, Bichon Frises are a wonderful choice for apartment dwellers looking for a cheerful, intelligent, and hypoallergenic companion. With their friendly nature, moderate exercise needs, and adaptable personality, these small dogs are sure to bring joy and companionship to any home.

7. Yorkshire Terrier

✅ Size: Tiny (4-7 lbs)

✅ Energy Level: Moderate

✅ Barking Level: Moderate to high

✅ Temperament: Confident, affectionate, intelligent

Yorkshire Terriers, affectionately known as “Yorkies,” are tiny dogs with big personalities. These spunky little dogs are known for their confidence, intelligence, and affectionate nature, making them a popular choice for apartment dwellers.

One of the most appealing aspects of Yorkies is their small size. Weighing in at just 4-7 pounds, these tiny dogs are easy to accommodate in even the smallest of apartments. They don’t require a lot of space to move around and can easily adapt to indoor living.

Despite their small size, Yorkies have a moderate energy level and enjoy regular exercise. They love going for short walks, playing with toys, and engaging in interactive games with their owners. However, their exercise needs can often be met with indoor play sessions and brief outings, making them well-suited for apartment living.

Yorkies are also known for their intelligence and trainability. They are quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement training. This makes them easy to train and helps them adapt to the rules and routines of apartment living.

Another advantage of Yorkies is their affectionate nature. They love being close to their owners and thrive on human companionship. This makes them excellent companions for those who spend a lot of time at home or work from home.

However, it’s important to note that Yorkies can be prone to barking, which can be a concern for apartment dwellers. They have a tendency to bark at unfamiliar sounds or when they feel threatened, which can be disruptive in close living quarters. Early training and socialization can help mitigate this tendency, but potential owners should be aware that these dogs may be more vocal than some other breeds.

Yorkies also require regular grooming to maintain their long, silky coat. They need to be brushed daily to prevent tangles and mats, and many owners opt to keep their coat trimmed short for easier maintenance.

Overall, Yorkshire Terriers are a delightful choice for apartment dwellers looking for a tiny, affectionate, and intelligent companion. With their small size, moderate exercise needs, and loving nature, these dogs can bring joy and companionship to any home, as long as their barking tendencies are addressed through proper training.

8. Boston Terrier

✅ Size: Small (12-25 lbs)

✅ Energy Level: Moderate

✅ Barking Level: Low

✅ Temperament: Friendly, lively, adaptable

Boston Terriers, often referred to as “American Gentlemen” due to their tuxedo-like markings, are small, friendly dogs that are well-suited for apartment living. These lively, adaptable dogs are known for their affectionate nature and their ability to get along with everyone.

One of the most appealing aspects of Boston Terriers is their friendly, outgoing personality. They love being around people and are known for their ability to get along with children, other dogs, and even cats. This makes them excellent companions for those who live in apartment complexes or have frequent visitors.

Boston Terriers have a moderate energy level and enjoy regular exercise. They love going for walks, playing fetch, and engaging in interactive games with their owners. However, their exercise needs can often be met with short walks and indoor play sessions, making them well-suited for apartment living.

Another advantage of Boston Terriers is their low barking tendencies. While they may alert their owners to visitors or unusual sounds, they are not typically excessive barkers. This makes them a good fit for apartment living, as they’re less likely to disturb neighbors or cause a noise complaint.

Boston Terriers are also known for their intelligence and trainability. They are eager to please their owners and respond well to positive reinforcement training. This makes them easy to train and helps them adapt to the rules and routines of apartment living.

However, it’s important to note that Boston Terriers can be prone to respiratory issues due to their short snouts. They may snore, snort, or wheeze, especially when overexerted or in hot weather. Potential owners should be aware of these potential health concerns and take steps to keep their dogs cool and comfortable.

Overall, Boston Terriers are a wonderful choice for apartment dwellers looking for a friendly, adaptable, and low-maintenance companion. With their outgoing nature, moderate exercise needs, and low barking tendencies, these small dogs are sure to bring joy and companionship to any home.

9. Shih Tzu

✅ Size: Small (9-16 lbs)

✅ Energy Level: Low to moderate

✅ Barking Level: Low

✅ Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, easygoing

Shih Tzus are small, affectionate dogs that are well-suited for apartment living. These gentle, easygoing dogs are known for their loving nature and their ability to adapt to various living situations.

One of the most appealing aspects of Shih Tzus is their low to moderate energy level. They enjoy short walks and indoor play sessions, but they don’t require extensive exercise. This makes them an excellent choice for apartment dwellers who may not have access to a large outdoor space or those who prefer a more relaxed lifestyle.

Shih Tzus are also known for their affectionate, loyal nature. They love being close to their owners and thrive on human companionship. This makes them excellent companions for those who spend a lot of time at home or work from home.

Another advantage of Shih Tzus is their low barking tendencies. While they may alert their owners to visitors or unusual sounds, they are not typically excessive barkers. This makes them a good fit for apartment living, as they’re less likely to disturb neighbors or cause a noise complaint.

Shih Tzus are also relatively easy to train, especially when using positive reinforcement methods. They are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners, which makes them responsive to training and helps them adapt to the rules and routines of apartment living.

However, it’s important to note that Shih Tzus require regular grooming to maintain their long, silky coat. They need to be brushed several times a week and trimmed every few months to prevent matting and keep their coat looking neat and tidy. Some owners opt to keep their Shih Tzu’s coat trimmed short for easier maintenance.

Overall, Shih Tzus are a delightful choice for apartment dwellers looking for a gentle, affectionate, and low-maintenance companion. With their easygoing nature, low barking tendencies, and adaptable personality, these small dogs are sure to bring joy and companionship to any home.

10. Italian Greyhound

✅ Size: Small (7-14 lbs)

✅ Energy Level: Moderate

✅ Barking Level: Low

✅ Temperament: Affectionate, sensitive, intelligent

Italian Greyhounds are small, elegant dogs that are well-suited for apartment living. These slender, graceful dogs are known for their affectionate nature, sensitivity, and intelligence.

One of the most appealing aspects of Italian Greyhounds is their small size. Weighing in at just 7-14 pounds, these compact dogs are easy to accommodate in even the smallest of apartments. They don’t require a lot of space to move around and can easily adapt to indoor living.

Despite their small size, Italian Greyhounds have a moderate energy level and enjoy regular exercise. They love going for short walks, playing with toys, and engaging in interactive games with their owners. However, their exercise needs can often be met with indoor play sessions and brief outings, making them well-suited for apartment living.

Italian Greyhounds are also known for their affectionate, sensitive nature. They bond closely with their owners and thrive on human companionship. This makes them excellent companions for those who spend a lot of time at home or work from home.

Another advantage of Italian Greyhounds is their low barking tendencies. While they may alert their owners to visitors or unusual sounds, they are not typically excessive barkers. This makes them a good fit for apartment living, as they’re less likely to disturb neighbors or cause a noise complaint.

Italian Greyhounds are also intelligent dogs that are relatively easy to train, especially when using positive reinforcement methods. They are eager to please their owners and respond well to gentle, consistent training.

However, it’s important to note that Italian Greyhounds can be sensitive to cold temperatures due to their short, thin coat. They may need to wear a sweater or coat in colder weather to stay comfortable. Potential owners should also be aware that these dogs can be prone to dental issues, so regular dental care is essential.

Overall, Italian Greyhounds are a charming choice for apartment dwellers looking for a small, affectionate, and intelligent companion. With their compact size, moderate exercise needs, and gentle nature, these elegant dogs are sure to bring joy and companionship to any home.