Best Dogs for Apartments: Complete Guide (2026)
27 breeds in this category
Living in an apartment doesn't mean you can't enjoy the companionship of a dog. Many breeds adapt beautifully to apartment living, thriving in smaller spaces as long as their basic needs for exercise and mental stimulation are met.
The best apartment dogs tend to be smaller in size, have moderate energy levels, and aren't excessive barkers (important for keeping the peace with neighbors). French Bulldogs, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and Shih Tzus are classic apartment breeds. However, some medium-sized breeds like Bulldogs and Basset Hounds can also be excellent apartment companions due to their calm, relaxed natures.
When choosing an apartment dog, consider noise levels (barking), energy levels, and size. Even small, energetic breeds can struggle in apartments if they don't get enough outdoor exercise. The ideal apartment dog is one that's content with daily walks and indoor play, is relatively quiet, and doesn't need a yard to be happy.
Breed Comparison
| Breed | Size | Energy | Grooming | Price Range | Breeders |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Australian Shepherd | Medium | Very High | Regular | $800-$3,500 | 0 |
| Basset Hound | Medium | Low | Weekly | $800-$2,500 | 0 |
| Beagle | Medium | High | Weekly | $800-$2,000 | 0 |
| Border Collie | Medium | Very High | Weekly | $800-$3,500 | 0 |
| Boston Terrier | Small | Moderate | Minimal | $1,500-$4,500 | 0 |
| Bull Terrier | Medium | High | Minimal | $1,200-$3,000 | 0 |
| Bulldog | Medium | Low | Weekly | $2,000-$5,000 | 0 |
| Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | Small | Moderate | Regular | $2,500-$5,000 | 0 |
| Cavapoo | Small | Moderate | Professional | $1,500-$4,500 | 0 |
| Chihuahua | Small | Moderate | Weekly | $500-$3,500 | 0 |
| Cockapoo | Small | Moderate | Professional | $1,200-$3,500 | 0 |
| Cocker Spaniel | Medium | Moderate | Professional | $800-$3,000 | 0 |
| Dachshund | Small | Moderate | Weekly | $500-$3,500 | 0 |
| English Springer Spaniel | Medium | Very High | Regular | $1,000-$3,500 | 0 |
| French Bulldog | Small | Low | Weekly | $2,500-$8,000 | 0 |
| Goldendoodle | Medium | High | Professional | $1,500-$5,000 | 0 |
| Labradoodle | Medium | High | Professional | $1,500-$3,500 | 0 |
| Miniature Schnauzer | Small | High | Professional | $800-$3,500 | 0 |
| Pembroke Welsh Corgi | Small | High | Weekly | $1,000-$3,500 | 0 |
| Pomeranian | Small | Moderate | Daily | $1,000-$6,000 | 0 |
| Pomsky | Small | High | Regular | $2,000-$5,000 | 0 |
| Pug | Small | Low | Weekly | $800-$2,500 | 0 |
| Shetland Sheepdog | Small | High | Regular | $1,000-$3,500 | 0 |
| Shih Tzu | Small | Moderate | Daily | $1,200-$3,500 | 0 |
| Siberian Husky | Medium | Very High | Weekly | $1,000-$2,500 | 0 |
| West Highland White Terrier | Small | High | Professional | $1,500-$3,500 | 0 |
| Yorkshire Terrier | Small | High | Daily | $1,200-$3,500 | 0 |