Breeds Suitable for Apartment Living

French Bulldog: Often referred to as “Frenchie”, French Bulldogs are a compact, muscular breed with a smooth coat, solid build, and a small size. They usually weigh under 28 pounds, making them perfect for an

Written by: Camila Ferreira

Published on: May 5, 2026

  1. French Bulldog:
    Often referred to as “Frenchie”, French Bulldogs are a compact, muscular breed with a smooth coat, solid build, and a small size. They usually weigh under 28 pounds, making them perfect for an apartment lifestyle. One noteworthy feature of French bulldogs is their disposition towards barking. Unlike many small dogs, they are not known to be serious barkers. They only bark when there is a cause, preventing unnecessary noises that can disturb neighbors in an apartment setting. This breed requires a moderate amount of exercise. A short leash walk along with some indoor play is enough to keep them healthy and fit. French Bulldogs are also fond of their human companions and do well in a small family setting.

  2. Bichon Frise:
    The Bichon Frise is a small breed known for its cheerful attitude and compact size. They typically weigh between 10-20 pounds. Bichon Frises are well-suited for apartment living because they do not need a large area to run like some other breeds. They are also known for their hypoallergenic fur, which is a boon for pet owners with allergies. Their outgoing and friendly nature makes them easy to train and socialize. However, they do require regular grooming and daily exercise to stay happy and healthy.

  3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel:
    Known for their affectionate nature, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, or ‘Cavaliers’, are small, sociable dogs that adore human companionship. With an average weight of 13-18 pounds, they adapt well to apartment dwelling. Cavaliers are not known to be incessant barkers and they generally get on well with other pets and individuals. They are also easy to train. Despite their small size, Cavaliers do require regular exercise to maintain good health.

  4. Pekingese:
    Pekingese are small, well-balanced dogs known for their courage and dignity rather than athleticism. They usually weigh between 7-14 pounds, making them perfect for apartment life. They tend to be quiet animals, seldom barking except when necessary. Pekingese have less exercise requirements when compared to more high-energy dogs, making them suited to relaxed, indoor living. However, like any dog, they appreciate short walks and playtime.

  5. Pugs:
    Pugs are known for their loving and affectionate nature. They weigh between 14-18 pounds and are suited to apartment living. Pugs aren’t huge barkers, and their relatively low energy level means they don’t need a lot of space to stretch their legs. They are prone to obesity though, and regular exercise is necessary to keep their weight in check. Pugs can suffer from overheating, so on hot days, indoor exercises are preferable.

  6. Shih Tzu:
    Shih Tzus are compact and solid dogs weighing between 9-16 pounds. They are another breed that doesn’t require much room, making them perfect for apartments. Shih Tzus are also quite quiet, so neighbors won’t be disturbed. They adapt well to various living situations as long as they have human companionship. Their long, flowing coat requires daily grooming, but they have relatively low exercise requirements, so short daily walks and playtime indoors are sufficient.

  7. Greyhounds:
    Despite their size, greyhounds make excellent apartment pets. They are known as one of the “45-mph couch potatoes” because they love to lounge as much as they love to run. They are usually quiet and do not bark excessively. While they do need daily exercise, a couple of short walks along with a sprint in a fenced yard or park every now and then keeps them happy. These calm, gentle pets can weigh between 60 and 70 pounds.

  8. English Bulldog:
    English Bulldogs are known for their well-behaved disposition. They are loyal and love to relax, making them perfect for apartment living. To maintain their health, they only require minimal exercise. They are classified as medium-sized dogs, usually weighing between 40 and 50 pounds. One recognizable trait is their limited barking. However, they do like routine and are not fans of excessive heat, so maintaining a suitable climate in the apartment and regular feeding times is essential.

  9. Boston Terrier:
    Boston Terriers are small, well-mannered pets ideal for apartment life. They usually weigh from 10 to 25 pounds. They are not known to bark excessively and they enjoy staying indoors with their owners. Boston Terriers require exercise in moderation, often enjoying a playful indoor game, or a short walk.

  10. Basenji:
    Often referred to as “barkless dog,” this breed does not trouble your neighbors with excessive noise. They are small, typically weighing from 22 to 24 pounds, and have a good disposition. They are intelligent and independent pets, but they also enjoy spending time with their owners. While considered a more active breed, a reasonable amount of exercise like a brisk daily walk and some playtime will suffice.

These carefully selected breeds, considering features like size, energy levels, temperament, and exercise needs, are best suited to apartment lifestyles. Always remember that while these breeds naturally adapt better to living in apartments, each dog is individual. Training and socialization will always play a significant role in how well any dog adapts to living in an apartment.

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