Sheltie Dog
Free Enquiry
Mail@doglifepedia.com
Mail@doglifepedia.com
June 7, 2025
Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the joy of having a dog. Many small dog breeds thrive in smaller living spaces as long as they get enough love, care, and regular exercise. If you’re looking to add a four-legged friend to your apartment life, here’s a complete 2025 guide to the best small dog breeds for apartment living.
Whether you’re in a flat in London, a high-rise in New York City, or a cozy apartment elsewhere, these breeds offer companionship, charm, and apartment-friendly behavior.
Size: 11–13 inches tall
Weight: 16–28 pounds
Temperament: Easygoing, affectionate, playful
The French Bulldog has become one of the most popular apartment dogs in both the UK and the USA. With their compact size and quiet nature, they rarely bark and are not overly active indoors. They enjoy short walks and lots of cuddles, making them perfect for small spaces and urban living.
Why they’re perfect for apartments:
Size: 12–13 inches tall
Weight: 13–18 pounds
Temperament: Friendly, gentle, affectionate
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a sweet and loving dog that enjoys being close to its human. They are relatively low-energy but still enjoy short walks and indoor play. Their small size and calm temperament make them excellent pets for apartment dwellers.
Why they’re perfect for apartments:
Size: 5–8 inches tall
Weight: 3–6 pounds
Temperament: Lively, alert, loyal
Chihuahuas are tiny but full of personality. They do well in apartments because of their size and minimal grooming needs. While they may be vocal, early training can help manage barking. They don’t need long walks — indoor play often keeps them satisfied.
Why they’re perfect for apartments:
Size: 10–13 inches tall
Weight: 14–18 pounds
Temperament: Playful, loving, charming
Pugs are the comedians of the dog world — they’re goofy, cuddly, and love human companionship. Their low energy and love of lounging make them ideal apartment pets. However, they are prone to obesity, so regular short walks are necessary.
Why they’re perfect for apartments:
Size: 9–10.5 inches tall
Weight: 9–16 pounds
Temperament: Outgoing, affectionate, gentle
Bred to be lap dogs for royalty, Shih Tzus are one of the most adaptable breeds for indoor life. They enjoy moderate play, short walks, and lots of relaxation. Their long hair requires grooming, but their loving nature makes up for the maintenance.
Why they’re perfect for apartments:
Love to sit on your lap and relax
Size: 15–17 inches tall
Weight: 12–25 pounds
Temperament: Friendly, smart, lively
Boston Terriers are small, well-mannered dogs with an upbeat personality. They adapt easily to apartment life and are typically quiet, especially with proper training. Their short coats require little grooming, and they love brief walks or play sessions.
Why they’re perfect for apartments:
Size: 7–9 inches tall
Weight: 4–7 pounds
Temperament: Sweet, gentle, intelligent
The Maltese is a charming and elegant toy breed that enjoys being pampered. They do very well in apartments due to their small size and low activity level. They bond deeply with their owners and love quiet companionship.
Why they’re perfect for apartments:
Size: 7–8 inches tall
Weight: 4–7 pounds
Temperament: Spirited, brave, affectionate
Despite their tiny size, Yorkies have big personalities. They are alert and brave, often acting as watchdogs. However, with consistent training, they can become calm apartment pets. Their grooming needs are higher, but they are loving companions.
Why they’re perfect for apartments:
Size: 5–6 inches tall
Weight: 11 pounds or under
Temperament: Curious, clever, playful
Miniature Dachshunds are playful and affectionate dogs that do well in apartments. They enjoy snuggling under blankets and don’t need much space to stay happy. Their short legs make them less likely to jump around or cause chaos in a small area.
Why they’re perfect for apartments:
Size: 8.5–11.5 inches tall
Weight: 7–13 pounds
Temperament: Sociable, cheerful, loyal
The Havanese is a friendly and sociable dog that thrives on companionship. They love being with people and adapt well to city life. Though they enjoy playtime, they don’t require intense physical activity, making them great apartment dogs.
Why they’re perfect for apartments:
Choosing the right small dog breed can make apartment living even more joyful. The breeds listed above are not only compact and adorable, but they also adapt beautifully to indoor lifestyles. With proper care, training, and love, your apartment dog will thrive in your home — no matter how small it may be.
If you’re planning to bring a furry friend into your apartment in 2025, any of these breeds could be a perfect match for your lifestyle.
