If you are longing for the love of a canine companion, but live in a small apartment, there are a few small breeds that could be ideal. Read on to discover some favorite dog breeds of families who live in apartments.
Finding a Great Apartment Dog
Just because you live in an apartment doesn't mean you need to limit yourself to pets such as cats, birds, or rodents. Many dog breeds come in compact sizes with a variety of apartment-friendly traits. Below is some helpful information on five small dog breeds, to help you and your family find the best dog for apartment living.
Affectionate & Smart - The French Bulldog
Height: 11 - 13 inches
Weight: Less than 28lbs
Life Expectancy: 10 - 12 years
Also known as the 'Frenchie' this affectionate, playful, and intelligent dog is even-tempered and absolutely charming. Their sleek smooth coat, muscular body, flat nose and bat ears give this dog a recognizable look that you just can't help but love.
French bulldogs make a great pet for singles, couples or even families living in apartments. With low exercise requirements and minimal barking, it's easy to see why. These small dogs crave companionship and love spending time with their people, 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 be giggling every day. These little dogs are the perfect size for apartment life, and are brimming with fun-loving character! While their lustrous coat does require a fair amount of grooming to keep it looking beautiful, you won't regret a minute of the effort.
Although these little guys do enjoy barking, they are friendly with strangers, children and other pets and don't require much exercise to stay healthy and happy. Shih Tzus simply adore curling up on their owner's lap to be petted and adored.
Playful & Devoted - The Hairless Chinese Crested
Height: 11-13 inches
Weight: 8-12 pounds
Life expect: 13-18 years
If you're looking for a dog that will adjust well to apartment living and doesn't shed or smell 'doggie', the Hairless Chinese Crested may be the dog for you! These adorable dogs have a hairless body with spotted skin, and fluffy tufts of fur on their head, feet and tail.
Chinese Crested dogs are incredibly devoted to their people and will follow their owners around from room to room. This can be an ideal breed for people who work from home, but not those who are out for several hours each day. Fun and with very little need for outdoor exercise, these dogs can be terrific apartment-sized pets.
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 comes in two apartment-friendly sizes (standard and miniature) and three different styles of coat (from smooth to long and luxurious).
Their tiny legs mean that they do not require (or tolerate) very much exercise, although this breed does have a relatively strong prey drive that can lead them to behave rashly or be stubborn. While they can be somewhat difficult to train, these curious dogs tend to get along well with kids 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 love to be cuddled. These solid little dogs are an ideal breed for apartment dwellers! Typically very quiet, pugs are happy to lounge around at home and just hang out with their people.
Playful and loyal, these dogs are very social and require lots of social activity with their people, children or other dogs. Their laid-back and lazy personality makes them prone to weight gain, so it's essential to regulate their diet to keep them healthy. Meals should be monitored carefully to keep them healthy.
Waiting for Love - The Mutt
Animal rescue centers take in thousands of homeless dogs, of all different breeds and sizes, every year. Rescue dogs are generally examined for health issues and screened for various personality traits (for example: good with kids, hates cats, super lazy, highly energetic, etc) before they are placed up for adoption. These dogs are just waiting for someone to love them and provide them with a safe forever home.
Your perfect pint-sized pooch may be a mixed-breed mutt waiting patiently for you at your local rescue.
Where to Get a Suitable Dog for Apartment Living
Searching for the perfect pup for your family can be a very exciting time, but it's important not to get swept up in the process. Rather than rushing out to a nearby pet store, take your time to look into local rescue, animal adoption agencies, shelters and breeders.
If you choose a purebred dog as your new furry friend, do a little research ahead of time. Be sure to choose a breeder with an excellent reputation for ethical breeding practices and raising healthy puppies.
How to Care for Your New Best Friend
Once you have found a canine companion to fill your heart with joy and laughter, it will be down to you to keep them healthy. Routine preventive care including wellness exams and vaccines are your best bet for helping your pooch live a long and healthy life.
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.