15 Best Apartment Dogs for People With Small Spaces and Big Hearts

Even if your living accommodations are cramped, you can still have a dog. Sure, if you want to acquire a huge dog like a husky or a shepherd, you'll need an area big enough for Fido to run around in. However, fortunately for dog lovers everywhere, there are a variety of small dog breeds that might thrive in an apartment.

So, what distinguishes these apartment-friendly pets from other dogs? For starters, the most of them are quite little. Furthermore, many of them are laid-back, low-shed, and well known for their politeness and quietness (something your neighbors will thank you for when they see you in the elevator or lobby, or hear you through the walls).

When picking a dog, the most crucial factor to consider is which breed is most suited to you and your lifestyle. These adorable breeds, according to the American Kennel Club, adapt best to city life. Check out our compilation of small-breed dogs for more dogs that might be content living in an apartment.

1.Bichon Frise

Bichons are hypoallergenic and extremely lovely, learning rapidly and loving just about everyone. This lively buddy weighs in at roughly 15 pounds and doesn't take up a lot of space on the couch.

2.French Bulldog

This breed has recently skyrocketed in popularity with metropolitan millennials, but Frenchies were uber popular in Paris all the way back in the 18th century. A brisk walk each day will sufficiently keep them in shape, and they rarely bark (a big boon for the neighbors).

3.Greyhound

You wouldn't think the world's fastest dog would adjust to a three-roomed home, but these sprinters like lounging around for the majority of the day. Take them to the dog park for a nice workout, and you'll have a sleepy sweetie to watch This Is Us with.

4.Pug

Pugs are a touch mischievous but utterly lovable, and their homebody temperament makes life easier for apartment dwellers. If you live somewhere where the weather is harsh, be cautious, and limit the goodies - pugs' love of food and couch potato sensibility make them prone to fat.

5.Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Charlotte was onto something when she adopted a Cav in Sex and the City. These toy dogs adore going for walks around the neighborhood, followed by a nap in your lap. Even a small studio can accommodate one of these silky beauties, which weigh between 13 and 18 pounds.

6.Bulldog

Bulldogs have a reputation for being lethargic loungers, despite their muscular physique. When it comes to fitness, brisk strolls should enough, and you'll love their pleasant and loyal temperament. Cities with scorching climates aren't ideal for their short faces.

7.Havenese

Havanese dogs excel in downtowns, just like their predecessors who lived in the Cuban capital, and are quite content to joke around inside your pad. If you want an extroverted dog with a built-in entertainment system, this is your new best friend. Allow the silky fur to grow long or cut it short to make maintenance easier.

8.Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus were raised to live in Chinese palaces, but they'll happily settle for your more humble abode. Take heed, parents: these adoring small dogs are especially good with children and other dogs.

9.Boston Terrier

You're in luck if you're seeking for something with a considerably shorter coat. The Boston terrier, sometimes known as "the American gentleman," is deserving of its prestigious moniker. This little breed is energetic and entertaining while remaining compact and ready to please.

10.Biewer Terrier

If a Yorkie was your first choice, consider its younger cousin instead. The Biewer Terrier (pronounced "beaver") has only been around since the 1980s, yet it has already earned a reputation for its kind disposition and calm demeanor. With a single hand, you can easily pick up the pint-sized cutie, which weighs 4 to 8 pounds.

11.Maltese

Not to be mistaken with the Havanese, this all-white dog from the Mediterranean can weigh half as much (under 7 pounds vs. up to 13 pounds).  They're born-and-bred buddies with a playful demeanor. Maltese, despite their long coat, only shed once in a while.

12.German Spitz

Devotion is the name of the game with this spitz breed. The fox-like expression may win you over, but take care with these attentive fellows. They can develop a penchant for barking at strangers if you're not careful. Luckily they're especially eager to please and willing to learn.

13.Bedlington Terrier

Bedlington Terriers stand out from the crowd thanks to their unusual fleecy fur, but all they want is to be a part of the family. Your new companion will require lengthier walks and play sessions when out and about, but you'll be rewarded with a dog who is loyal to the core and low-shedding.

14.Italian Greyhound

These greyhounds are a smaller version of racing greyhounds, weighing roughly 10 pounds instead of 60. They're total snugglers who enjoy curling up on the bed, but they still have a pulsing personality.

15.Chinese Crested

Last but not least, the Chinese Crested is a great way to make a statement on your block.  While the "powderpuff" kind has a silky coat, the hairless variety only has tufts at the head, foot, and tail, making it ideal for allergy sufferers. Simply ensure that their exposed skin is protected from the sun's UV radiation.