It's no secret that if it was up to the four-pawed, each would probably pick out a house with a whole dog park in the backyard. However, that's neither always feasible nor desired for city dwellers. Still, many want to experience the happiness that a pupper can bring to one's home. Thus, there's no need to give up on a dream of having a puppy if one lives in an apartment, as there are plenty of apartment dogs, both small and large dog breeds, that adapt well to city living.
However, when picking out the best apartment dogs, one must consider the pupper's size, level of activity, need for socialization, toileting options, and the "vocality," or how loud the doggo can get. While it's customary to think that only small dog breeds can thrive living in apartments, that's not always the case. There are, in fact, quite a few apartment dog breeds that are of larger sizes that don't mind living in smaller spaces.
To save you some internet digging, we scoured the best apartment dog breeds based on their origins and personality traits. Below, you'll find a list of the best dogs for apartments that don't mind the hustle and bustle of city life and adapt well to confined spaces. Do you agree with our selection? Know of any more of the best dog breeds for apartments that we forgot to include in the list? Let us know in the comments!
#21 Biewer Terrier

This petite English breed is ideal for apartments. They are renowned for having goofy, upbeat dispositions and adapting well to new environments, which is perfect if you move apartments periodically. However, they are quite athletic little critters who are always ready for a stroll or a long walk, so they will require being walked regularly.
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#22 Affenpinscher

An affenpinscher can be the breed of apartment-sized dog for you if you prefer miniature dogs. You won't get tired of being around them because they are brimming with personality and are perfect for small spaces. With their childlike mannerisms, they never fail to make their owners laugh. The French frequently refer to this breed as "mustached little devils."
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#23 Pekingese

Your neighbors will like the calm nature of these lovely fluffballs because they are relatively quiet. Weighing less than 15 pounds, they are incredibly affectionate dogs. Still, they also don't mind spending time at home alone because of their independent nature. They form intense bonds with their preferred people and make the most devoted chums.
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#24 Chihuahua

Due to their petite size, this dog breed is ideal for apartment living. In contrast to their diminutive size, they possess charisma and self-assurance, which makes them a fantastic choice for city people. However, know that most Chihuahuas will be loud and yappy, liking to be heard!
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#25 Mastiff

If you are not exactly a fan of toy-size companions, consider having a Mastiff. Since they are gentle giants with calm temperaments, they are a good choice for apartment dwellers who prefer larger dog breeds. They are also very devoted and protective. These mighty yet gentle canines won't mind residing in an apartment as long as you take them for a daily walk.
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#26 Havanese

These pooches, the only breed of dog indigenous to Cuba, are highly renowned for their playful nature and extroverted, gregarious personalities. Havanese are well-suited to apartment living and have no trouble adjusting to city life.
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#27 Beagle

Due to its social pack mentality, the beagle is a total people pooch that is excellent for families and will be content wherever its owner is. This lovable dog breed is playful, simple to groom, and always upbeat. Yet, due to its high spirits, curiosity, and intelligence, it needs a lot of engagement and active playing.
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#28 Great Dane

Interestingly, Great Danes make perfect apartment dogs despite their relatively big size. You won't likely have to worry about them running around and causing mischief in your apartment because they are laid-back and chill dogs. Also, they are relaxed with children!
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#29 Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are arguably some of the greatest dog breeds for apartments because of their size, temperament, and sociability. This little pupper will always join you on the couch for cuddles, whether you live in the city or the suburbs. Also, don't worry if you have small children or other animals. Instead, you might have to watch over the kids to treat the doggo well!
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#30 Bichon Frise

The natures of bichons are energetic and happy-go-lucky, and their gorgeous coats are hypoallergenic. This adorable dog breed is also great with children and even with other dogs, which is terrific news if you also have another furry fellow residing in your apartment!
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#31 French Bulldog

The easygoing, laid-back nature of the French bulldog makes it the kind of apartment dog breed that is entirely down for both chilling on the couch and going for a quick stroll. They don't bark much, so your neighbors will appreciate it too.
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#32 Greyhound

Although you might not think a breed like this would do well in an apartment, they actually do. These gentle giants make a fantastic breed of dog for apartments. In fact, greyhounds enjoy lounging about and resting indoors, so don't worry about them wanting to romp around your house at top speed — they'll reserve it for their daily walk in the park.
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#33 Japanese Chin

The Japanese Chin is the perfect wee dog for apartment living if you seek a furry friend to go on walks with. This lapdog breed has a long silky coat and a perky plumed tail and typically weighs no more than 12 lbs. The Japanese Chin is noted for being patient, devoted, and loving.
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#34 Coton De Tulear

This little dog breed is most suitable for retirees, empty-nesters, or remote workers. The Coton De Tulear will keep you company and never let you feel lonely. He enjoys going on walks, and playing games indoors can easily meet his demand for exercise for the day.
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#35 Miniature Pinscher

These dogs are their own three-ring circus because they are brazen, inquisitive, and impulsive. They have been dubbed the "king of toys," a label that is especially appropriate given their king complexes and love of toys. This little breed of dog won't take over your apartment as long as you have the traits of a capable pack leader and provide the proper training and care.
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#36 Chinese Crested

This apartment dog breed has two variations: hairless and powderpuff. The skin of the hairless variety is smooth, with tufts of hair on the head, tail, and ankles. In contrast, the powderpuff type has a full coat of straight, silky hair. These apartment-friendly dogs are intelligent, playful, and incredibly affectionate, regardless of the kind. Whether at home or on the go, they absolutely adore being close to their owner.
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#37 Brussels Griffon

The Brussels griffon is one breed that makes an excellent apartment dog. These so-called bearded dogs are cheery little critters, despite their grumpy-appearing faces. They can have red, black, beige, or black and tan coats. If you have one, you can anticipate an overload of affection from them.
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#38 Basenji

Basenji are excellent companions, fitness allies, and watchdogs who will keep you bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. However, when they are pups, they enjoy chewing, so be careful not to leave anything they could find appealing on the floor!
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#39 Australian Terrier

The Australian terrier is the perfect pup for a lively, high-energetic household. This adorable pupper is happiest when living with a family. It’s a very active dog breed, so exercise with your Aussie terrier numerous times every day, and never, ever let them get bored. Unless you don’t mind a few tears in your soft furnishings.
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#40 Silky Terrier

For the right owner, wee dog breeds like the silky terrier may bring a lot of joy and affection. Spending the entire day in your company will make your silky terrier the happiest. Despite his small stature, he makes an excellent watchdog because he immediately alerts you if anything or anyone strange approaches his territory.
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