The 10 Best Dogs for Apartment Living

Here's the truth. Most dogs can live in apartments. What they can't live without is exercise, mental stimulation, and your company. A big house with a yard means nothing if you're never home.

But some breeds really are better suited for apartment life. Here's my top picks.

1. French Bulldog

The king of apartment dogs. They're small, they don't need much exercise, and they're happy just chilling next to you. snoring. Loudly. But you get used to it.

Exercise needed: Low. A couple short walks a day.

2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Sweet. Affectionate. They fit in your lap like they were made for it. Great with kids and other pets. These dogs don't know a stranger.

Exercise needed: Moderate. They'll play but they're not athletes.

3. Greyhound

Wait. A Greyhound? Yes. Here's the secret. These dogs are sprinters. They run hard for 20 seconds and then sleep for 23 hours. They're basically couch potatoes with four legs.

Exercise needed: Low. A couple walks and occasional sprint opportunity.

4. Shih Tzu

Originally bred to sit on Chinese emperors' laps. These dogs are professionals at doing nothing. They do need grooming though. That beautiful coat takes work.

Exercise needed: Very low. Short walks and indoor play.

5. Pug

Funny. Cuddly. A little goofy. Pugs are built for laps. Just don't exercise them too much in hot weather. Those flat faces make it hard to breathe when it's warm.

Exercise needed: Low. Short walks. That's it.

6. Boston Terrier

The American gentleman. Tuxedo coat. Friendly as hell. These dogs are up for anything. They'll hike with you or watch Netflix. Whatever you're into.

Exercise needed: Moderate. They like to play but don't demand much.

7. Bulldog

Another flat-faced friend. They look tough but they're softies. Slow. Very slow. But they're happy just being near you. Great for laid-back owners.

Exercise needed: Very low. Short walks. Don't let them overheat.

8. Chihuahua

Tiny dog. Huge personality. These little guys think they're big dogs. Perfect for tiny apartments. They don't need much space. Or much of anything, really.

Exercise needed: Low. Indoor play is usually enough.

9. Whippet

Like a smaller, quieter Greyhound. Same deal. Sprint and sleep. Quiet enough for apartments. Gentle. Sweet. Everything you'd want.

Exercise needed: Low to moderate.

10. Basenji

The cat of dogs. They clean themselves. They're quiet. They have no dog smell. But they can be stubborn. Very stubborn. Research this one before you commit.

Exercise needed: Moderate. They need to burn off energy.

The Real Talk

Here's what matters more than breed. Your schedule. Your energy. Your willingness to walk your dog regardless of weather.

A high-energy Border Collie can live in a studio if you run it for two hours every day. A lazy Basset Hound will get fat and sick if you don't make it move.

Match your lifestyle. Not your dreams of what you think you want.