If you are craving the companionship of a dog, but live in a small apartment, all is not lost. Many breeds of dogs adapt well to apartment living. Here, our Norristown vets share their top 5 list of dogs that adapt well to apartment living.
Finding a Great Apartment Dog
Just because you live in an apartment does not mean you can only have cats, birds, or rodents as pets. Many dog breeds are available in small sizes and have a variety of apartment-friendly characteristics. Here are a few suggestions to help you find the perfect dog for your apartment lifestyle.
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 excellent apartment pets for singles, couples, and even families. It's easy to see why, with low exercise requirements and minimal barking. These small dogs are social creatures who enjoy spending time with their owners, children, and other pets.
Charming & Playful - The Shih Tzu
Height: 9-11 inches
Weight: 9-16lbs
Life Expectancy: 10-18 years
You'll be giggling every day if you get a Shih Tzu. These adorable puppies are the ideal size for apartment living and are full of personality! While their lustrous coat does require some grooming to keep it looking beautiful, you will not be disappointed.
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 is the dog for you! These adorable dogs have a hairless bodies with spotted skin, and fluffy tufts of fur on their head, feet, and tail.
Chinese Crested dogs are extremely devoted to their owners and will follow them from room to room. This breed is ideal for people who work from home rather than those who are out for several hours each day. These dogs are ideal for apartment living because they are entertaining and require little outdoor exercise.
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
The dachshund, also known as a 'sausage dog,' a 'Weiner dog,' a 'Dashie,' or a 'Doxie,' is the ideal size and personality for apartment living. This breed comes in two apartment-friendly sizes (standard and miniature) and three different coat styles (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 it can be somewhat difficult to train these curious dogs 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.
These dogs are playful and loyal, and they require a lot of social interaction with their people, children, or other dogs. Their laid-back and lazy personality makes them prone to weight gain, so it's critical to monitor their diet to keep them healthy.
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.