You’ve been living in an apartment, and you’ve finally come to the conclusion that you’d like some company…of the 4-legged kind. You’re looking for a happy face, a wagging tail and a lively spirit to greet you when you come home. You may even be dreaming of a canine snuggle buddy or an ideal walking companion to enjoy your time outside of the apartment. The question you’re likely asking yourself is : What’s the best dog for an apartment? What dog breeds are the most suited for living in a small living space? We look at breeds of all sizes to help you make the right decision.
You’re not alone in your desire for a dog best friend; roughly 70% of apartment owners own dogs as pets. That being said, having a dog is no walk in the park. Ensuring that you have sufficient conditions, allotting enough time to spend with your dog and choosing the right breed can mean the difference between a match made in heaven and a hair-raising experience. Fortunately, there are many options available if you live in an apartment to find the dog that’s right for you.
Considerations before getting a dog
Before you make your fantasy a reality and try to select the dog that’s right for you, you need to consider the environment that you will be creating for your dog and whether you should share your apartment with a dog. The first consideration is how much space you are willing to give to your dog. Although the romantic fantasy is that your dog will curl up on the couch when you are not away and share your bed with you at night, dogs have certain needs that need to be met. One of them is personal space.
A dog will need to have some space that it can consider to be its “own”, whether it is a crate, a dog bed, a pen or a special mat. This is similar to humans, as we tend to have our own cravings for some personal space, whether it’s a chair, corner, room (or even a whole apartment or house!). How big of a crate or bed will be dependent on how large of a dog that you have. Generally speaking, the crate or bed should at least be the length of their body from their nose to the base of their tail, as most dogs use their personal space to curl up on.
In addition to having an area for lying and relaxing, dogs also need space for storing their food, toys, leashes, medical supplies and any other materials necessary for dog care, such as shampoos or cleaners (for when they have an accident…). We’ll address this further below, but if you get a puppy, you will also need an area for housebreaking and, if your dog likes to teeth, an area that the puppy can roam around in before it’s trained not to chew everything.
The next issue, and perhaps just as important, is how much time you will be willing to devote to your dog. Everyone likes having dogs around to pet and cuddle with, but for the other 22 or so hours of the day, your dog will have other ambitions. Fortunately, many dogs like to sleep as much as possible, hence having an area for relaxing. However, many, if not most dogs, have certain energy demands, especially dogs that were trained for working, such as terriers, herding dogs and hunting dogs.
The more energy your dog has, the more energy you need to expend in order to prevent your dog from chewing, barking, or becoming aggressive. If you like taking your dog for walks, hikes or play time that lasts at least an hour or so, then you can handle most, if not all dogs (and you may even have more energy than some!). If you have a busy schedule and can only commit a half an hour or so to taking your dog out, this will restrict the dog that you have; any less than that, and you will need to restrict your search to very sedentary breeds or older dogs. You also need to devote time to training, since chances are your dog will have a mind of its own, as well as feeding and grooming.
As noted above, the life stage of your dog will be an important issue in determining how well you care for your dog. Among the many reasons that dogs get sent to shelters every year is because of inadequate facilities, time commitments, cost of pet maintenance and behavior issues like biting. Although this can happen with any dog, having a puppy is the most challenging period because you will have to deal with behaviors that your puppy will hopefully outgrow, like teething and eliminating waste in the house. That being said, you need to devote a sufficient amount of time during your puppy’s first 6 months to training, even if it’s just 5 minutes a day, as this will help to alleviate unwanted behaviors and expedite your dog becoming the perfect companion.
Additionally, you will need to a lot time to bringing your pup to the vet for check-ups and vaccinations. Many apartment-dwellers prefer taking in older dogs because they don’t have the same behavior and time commitment issues, though depending on from where you acquired your pooch, you may still need to do some training. All dogs are liable to have issues that might include digestive disruption, joint problems and incontinence as they advance in age, usually arising at 10-14 years of age depending on the breed. Therefore, all life stages of a dog require a certain amount of time committed depending on the issues that may arise.
In line with your time commitments to your dog and the life stage you are seeking is what you wish to do with your dog. This consideration will ultimately be a deciding factor in the breed you choose. Are you looking for a dog strictly as an apartment companion, or are you seeking a creature as a walking companion? Are you interested in training your dog at an elite level, or are you looking for a dog that is easily trained to be comfortable around people and other animals?
Some dogs are more trainable and even need to be trained, such as border collies, poodles and shepherds, while other dogs are more stubborn but easygoing. All dogs like training, but some dogs will be very demanding of your attention and time. If you’re willing to devote the time and energy, then you may have found a new hobby and certainly will make a happy critter. If you’re not, you may subject your apartment and others to the potential destructive capabilities of a dog without an outlet for its energy.
What you are willing to do with your dog will also be determined by your social commitments and engagements and the level of interaction your dog receives. Dogs are similar to people in that some dogs will have different socializing preferences. This can vary with the breed and also on an individual basis. If you’re just looking for an apartment companion or even a guard dog, this will be different than if you are a very social person or take your dog on walks, especially if they end up at the dog park. In the end, however, dogs aren’t meant to be alone for extended periods of time, generally 6-8 hours.
If you find that you can’t provide adequate socialization for your dog, your dog might become more aggressive or destructive. It’s also worth taking into consideration how frequently your dog will encounter other animals or humans, especially children. Some dogs, especially herding dogs, can be very protective of a family while also being aggressive to other dogs or people. While the protective impulse is often desirable, it may take more training than anticipated to acclimate your dog so that it is not constantly snapping at other dogs or people. If this is a problem that you wish to avoid, then choosing the right breed will help to alleviate you of any potential aggression issues.
The last consideration, but one that is ultimately a deciding factor for whether you pursue dog ownership and what dog you choose is what the restrictions are related to your lease. If your lease has a no-pet clause, owning a dog is a risk that you will have to navigate and one that may lead to you having to forfeit dog ownership or risk possible eviction if you are detected. Some apartments only require a pet deposit if you have a dog or require you to have additional coverage for pets in your renters insurance; this may also be breed specific.
Other apartments may restrict you from owning specific types of dogs, such as pit bulls, rottweilers or doberman pinschers that have a reputation for being more aggressive. You may also not be able to own a dog, or may not be able to own certain types of dogs, depending on how much your dog sheds as this may be an allergen concern for other or future apartment dwellers.
One notable exemption regarding dog ownership if you live in an apartment is whether your dog is for emotional support or special needs. In this case, there is much greater leniency regarding owning a dog in general and what the specific breed is, though it’s worth maintaining a clear record of any documentation necessary to proof that your dog is a service dog. In the end, before you purchase a dog and bring it to its new home, make sure that you clearly understand any pet prohibitions and restrictions so that you can spare you and your pet for the aggravation of an unhappy landlord.
Note : If your dog sheds you’ll need a powerful vacuum. Read our guide on choosing the best dog vacuum cleaner.
Best Dog for an Apartment / Which Breeds are Ideal?
Now that we’ve navigated the various concerns and considerations prior to considering whether a dog is right for you and your apartment situation, we can look further into what are the best dog breeds for apartments based on their size. As noted above, size is directly proportionate to the space and feeding needs of your dog (Note: bigger = more) and is generally proportionate to the energy demands your dog will have, though this can vary within the different size classes. The key characteristics to note are: how big is your dog, it’s life span, its temperament (Ex. barking, sociability, trainability), its energy level, grooming and health concerns, and how well it does with extended periods of indoor alone time.
Best Small dog breeds for apartments / Under 25 pounds
Bichon Frise —
Not just for french nobility, this stylish pooch is a great indoor companion. It weighs anywhere from 6-10 pounds, and is smaller than than 12 inches in height, making it easy to crate. They like to have a daily walk as well as activities to occupy their energy while indoors. One of the benefits of the Bichon is that it sheds minimally, making it a great apartment companion especially if you have allergies. They are relatively low maintenance, with clipping around the eyes necessary to prevent moisture build-up; a healthy dog can live 15 years on average. Best of all, they are very friendly dogs and will be a welcome addition to your apartment complex.
Australian Terrier —
Terriers are known for being higher in energy; while the Australian terrier is not quite as energized as a Jack Russel (dogs that have been known to chase squirrels into trees), it does have a tendency to chase; regular walks will help to keep its energy at management levels. Fortunately, it is as compact as it is cuddly, measuring at around 10 inches in height and weighing roughly 9-12 pounds. Although it sheds minimally, it does need to be brushed regularly and, as with the Bichon, it will need the occasional eye-hair touch-up. It is a very social dog and likes to spend time with kids, a great asset if you have a family or welcome younger relatives regularly. It does have a tendency to bark, which might be a problem if your apartment experiences heavy traffic. All in all, a healthy Australian terrier can live up to 15 years and makes a great pet along the way.
Boston terrier —
The Boston terrier is another spunky breed well-suited for apartments. The Boston terrier is slightly larger than the Australian terrier, measuring roughly 15-20 inches in height but weighs the same. Like the Bichon, it likes additional games and toys to keep it busy outside of its regular walk. It is an average hair shedder but easy to groom because of its short-hair coat. The only concern is that it might develop respiratory problems that are common with short-nosed breeds. In general, it is an easy going dog that likes to play, especially with children. As with the other dogs, a healthy dog can live on average 15 years.
French Bulldog
French bulldogs are similar in form and demeanor to Boston terriers but with a distinctive black coat with white face and leg markings. Boston terriers measure on average a foot at the shoulders and weigh roughly 20-30 pounds. They are very social animals and, as with all dogs, shouldn’t be left alone longer than 8 hours at a stretch. Their short noses can be problematic with heat regulation, as with other short-nosed breeds, as well as with drooling and slobbering, but otherwise they have few health concerns. They have an easily cared for coat with average shedding and get along well with people and other animals, though they can be somewhat frantic around younger children. On average, they will live 10-12 years.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel —
Not just for the aristocracy, the Cavalier King Charles makes a great apartment dog. They are small in stature, measuring 12 to 13 inches in height and weighing 10-20 pounds. They are a moderate energy breed and satisfied with a small yard or brief walks during the day. Some of the disadvantages include their sensitivity to high heat, their need for regular brushing to avoid knots in their coat and different breed-specific health issues such as heart disease and hip dysplasia. That being noted, they are average shedders and friendly as long as they are socialized when young. A healthy Cavalier will live on average 9-14 years.
Chihuahua —
Synonymous for being small but lively, Chihuahuas make great apartment pets. Measuring 7-10 inches in height and weighing as little as 3-7 pounds, they are exceptionally minimal in their space requirements and feeding demands. They don’t require a lot of walking, just enough to stretch their legs and eliminate. They are prone to getting cold, and they may have wheezing and snoring problems because of their short noses. They are average shedders that need occasional brushing. They can be a bit snappy around strangers and strange dogs and may require an extended period of social adjustment during training. Healthy Chihuahuas can live at least 15 years.
Chinese crested or hairless dog —
Although they might generate some stares and second glances, Chinese crested dogs are exceptional in appearance and in accommodating apartment dwelling. They are small, measuring a foot in height and weighing 9-12 pounds. They don’t bark, but they do like to climb and dig holes when possible. Because they are hairless, they don’t shed or require brushing, but a regular bath will help to keep their skin clean. They can be exceptionally timid creatures and may require some gradual exposure to outdoor settings, but they are ultimately very affectionate creatures.
Pekingese —
These dogs are perfect if you don’t have a lot of time to devote to walking. They are relatively lazy and only require a short walk each day. They are smaller dogs, measuring a foot to 13 inches in height and weighing 7-12 pounds. Because of their long coat, they do require regular grooming and are prone to different health issues such as respiratory issues because of their short noses and eye diseases because of their abundant coat. They are good watchdogs, as far as their alerting bark, though they can be weary around strangers and children, which may require extra training. A healthy Pekingese lives 10 to 15 years
Pug —
A favorite dog in film and comedy (Men in Black?), Pugs are a favorite dog for apartments. They measure 11-15 inches in height and weigh 13-20 pounds. They like regular exercise and games, though like other short-nose breeds they can overexert themselves and wheeze, so err on the side of moderation. They can shed heavily based on the season, with more shedding in the fall and spring, and their face creases need to be cleaned regularly to avoid infection. Like bulldogs, they don’t like extreme temperatures and can have chronic breathing problems. Fortunately, they are incredibly friendly, playful and get along with people and other animals. Healthy pug can live 12-14 years.
Shih Tzu —
Shih Tzu’s are surprisingly low maintenance given their build and appearance. They measure on average 13 inches in height and weigh 10-16 pounds. They are relatively active pups that do well with regular walks of at least 30 minutes. Despite their longer coat they shed minimally, only requiring regular brushing, but they don’t do well in excessive heat. Some Shih Tzu’s can have eye, ear and respiratory problems, so it’s best to consult the breeder to identify any problems in the ancestry. They are fairly social, but if not socialized early then they can be snappy around other people and pets. Healthy Shih Tzu’s can live over 15 years.
Best Medium-sized dog breeds for apartments (25-60 pounds)
Basset hound
Basset hounds are known for their droopy ears and sad faces, but there’s much more emotional complexity to this adorable creature. On average, Basset hounds measure 11-15 inches in height and weigh 45-65 pounds. A couple walks a day is good to satisfy their energy demands, though they do like regular play time; if their energy demands aren’t being satisfied, they tend to channel it towards excessive barking. They also tend to be abundant shedders, which might be a problem if you are trying to keep an immaculate or allergy free apartment. Also, they tend to gain weight easily, perhaps due to the tendency of many owners to feed them much and walk them little, which can be problematic if they have to navigate stairs. In general, they are friendly companions that get along well with others. A well-cared for basset hound lives on average 10-12 years.
Bulldog
Although they look perpetually grumpy, bulldogs make great pets, especially for apartments. Bulldogs measure on average 10-14 inches in height and weigh 45-55 pounds (they’re kind of like bowling balls with legs…). They are super social creatures, so much that an absence of attention can lead to emotional distress. Because they are a short-nose breed, they can be liable to respiratory problems. They are very sensitive to extremes in temperature, with high heat potentially leading to heat stroke and cold weather causing problems because of their short coat; a temperate climate is ideal, though providing adequate cooling and supplemental heating can help with any extremes. They were bred to help herd cattle which makes them fearless guard dogs, but they are most known for being gentle creatures. A well-cared for bulldog lives on average 8 years.
Basenji
Basenjis are unique dogs because they don’t bark, instead making whelping or yodeling noises, which is advantageous if you don’t want to disturb the neighbors (or if you want to entertain them!). Basenjis average 16-17 inches in height and weigh roughly 20-30 pounds depending on the gender. They are short-haired and are even known to groom themselves, but slightly higher in energy and do well with regular walks of at least 45 minutes. They love to run around and play with other people and dogs, so visits to the dog park are also a good idea if feasible.The only health concern with Basenjis is that they are prone to becoming overweight if not walked regularly. Average Basenji life expectancy is 13 to 14 years.
Beagle
Whether you’re dreaming of hunting in the countryside or looking for a loyal apartment companion, Beagles make great pets. They measure anywhere from 13-15 inches and weigh between 20-30 pounds. They are very upbeat and friendly dogs that enjoy regular play and activity; as they were bred for hunting, consistent walks of at least 45 minutes will help to expend their energy. They shed moderately and seasonally, with the only major health concerns being possible ear infections with their longer ears. Check and clean their ears regularly to avoid complications. Otherwise, beagles are very friendly around other people and pets, with abundant barks that serve well for apartment security. A healthy beagle can be expected to live 10-15 years.
Corgi
The closest breed to a teddy bear, corgis make great apartment dogs. There are two specific Corgi breeds, the Cardigan and the Pembroke, though the differences are more in coloring than in temperament and stature. Corgis measure 10-12 inches in height and weigh around 30-40 pounds. They are traditionally bred for herding, which means that they have a moderate amount of energy and can be protective around strange people or pets. That being noted, they are very affectionate, especially around children, and even tempered. Try and walk your Corgi at least 45 minutes a day. They tend to shed more frequently than other breeds, so regular grooming is recommended, and because of their stature, they may be prone to elbow and hip dysplasia. Otherwise, Corgis make reliable and welcoming pets with life expectancies of 12 to 13 years.
Cocker spaniel
Cocker spaniels are as fun-loving as they appear and make great playmates, including those in apartments. Cocker spaniels measure between 13.5-15.5 inches and weigh 25-30 pounds. Although originally bred as bird dogs, they are most popular as playful and energetic companions who enjoy brisk walks and lots of running around. They make great playmates with other pets and kids and are friendly with people in general. Given their longer hair, they need to be groomed regularly to reduce the effects of shedding, and they should have their eyes and ears checked regularly to prevent the onset of infection. They are highly trainable dogs who are willing to please, and you can expect a healthy Cocker to live 10-14 years.
Dachshund
The Dachshund’s adorable shape makes it as popular in appearance as for its ability to dwell in apartments. Dachshunds come in miniature and standard form, with miniature’s weighing less than 11 pounds while standards can weigh a little over 30 pounds. They are medium-energy dogs that enjoy a regular walk and romp in the park to indulge their breed instinct to dig; if pent up too long, they can let loose their hound trait to bark. There are 3 different coat types, with smooth-hair being the easiest to maintain, followed by wire-haired and long-haired. Given their long spine, they are similar to basset hounds regarding the need for proper weight management, but a healthy Dachshund spunky and fearless. They are great around people, though they can be somewhat protective around strangers. Their average life expectancy is 12 to 16 years.
Poodle
Often regarded for their pomp as much for their pizzazz, Poodles are peppy dogs that make great apartment mates for the right owner. Poodles come in miniature and standard form, with miniatures weighing less than 15 pounds and standards weighing 40-70 pounds, with males at the larger end of the spectrum. Although not the highest energy dogs around, they are very smart and do well with regular interaction and games, such as fetching, to keep them going; a 45 minute walk with abundant play time will help to properly channel their creative energies. Poodles are unique in that they grow hair and not fur, which makes them an ideal, hypoallergenic pet, but they do need regular brushing and trimming to prevent matting. With proper diet and exercise you can keep your dog healthy and in proper weight, with hip dysplasia and eye problems being the only main concerns. Otherwise, poodles provide reliable, intelligent companions with life expectancies of 10-18 years.
Schnauzer
Don’t let that fearsome beard fool you; Schnauzers are compatible apartment pets. Standard Schnauzers weigh 30-50 pounds and measure 18-20 inches in height, with miniatures being a few inches shorter and weighing up to 20 pounds; Giant Schnauzers are another option and can weigh up to 85 pounds. They are known for being as sociable as they are alert, making great watchdogs with barks that can be excessive if pent up for too long. Fortunately, they are very trainable and of moderate energy, with a 45 minute walk being sufficient to keep its energy in check. They shed minimally but their wiry coat does better with regular brushing and occasional clipping. Otherwise, they are a very healthy breed that likes to play with other people and pets. A well-fed and well-kept Schnauzer can be expected to live 13-16 years.
Whippet
They look like smaller greyhounds, but Whippets have a personality all of their own and one that suits apartment dwelling. They measure 15-20 inches in height and weigh between 25-45 pounds. They enjoy brisk walks, upwards of 45 minutes, but also enjoy running around in open ground, a good excuse to go to a dog park. One consideration is that, because they were bred to track and kill small animals, they tend to chase after small creatures and require supervision or a fenced in yard if left outdoors (not a problem if kept indoors). They shed minimally and their short hair makes them easy to groom. Because they are short-haired, they are more sensitive to the cold, so a sweater or padding during the winter may be advised in colder climates. Otherwise, they are calm dogs that are good with children and a healthy Whippet can live between 12 to 15 years.
Best Large dog breeds for apartments (> 60 pounds)
Greyhound
The Whippet’s more well-known “relative”, the Greyhound is a surprisingly good apartment dog given its history. Greyhounds typically measure 25-30 inches in height and weigh 60-70 pounds. Although these dogs were originally bred for tracking and pursuing prey, which makes them very good at chasing after anything of interest outdoors, they are very calm and inactive indoors. A good 30-45 minute walk each day will give them an outlet for their energy, especially if you take them to a dog park, the only concerns being that they should be kept away from small dogs and small, unacquainted children given their hunting instincts. They are light shedders who are easy to groom, but they are prone to bloat and any chemicals in the environment. Overall, they are calm and sociable creatures who are easy to get along with. Greyhounds live on average 10 to 12 years.
Bernese mountain dog
Bernese mountain dogs are growing in popularity, even for apartment dwellers, and for good reason. Although they can be on the bigger side, measuring 23-28 inches in height and weighing between 70-115 pounds, they are incredibly sociable animals whose energy demand suits apartment living. They do well with a 30-45 minute walk and like to play; given their friendly disposition, this is usually a welcome affair. Their long coats should be brushed regularly and they do tend to shed, which is a valuable asset in colder climates but can be a hindrance in warmer ones. They can be prone to joint dysplasia, bloat and some cancers, so regular checkups are recommended. All in all, they are a great indoor dog and a welcome companion who live between 7-10 years.
Golden retriever
Golden retrievers are unique among apartment dogs. They measure 21-24 inches in height and weight between 55 and 75 pounds. Although they are on the higher end of the energy spectrum, and unchanneled energy can lead to shewing and other destructive behavior, they are exceptionally friendly and highly trainable, which is an incentive for owners willing to invest in proper training. They require weekly brushing and shed seasonally, as other dogs with medium-length coats. They are generally healthy, with the usual concerns such as dysplasia, heart disease and eye conditions found in larger dogs. They are a great family pet and fun to be around, which is why they are one of the most popular dogs. On average, golden retrievers live 10-12 years.
Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are big fluff-balls with big hearts. They are big dogs, measuring 26-28 inches in height and weighing 100-150 pounds. At the same time, they are of moderate energy, and after a 30-45 minute walk each day they will probably spend the rest of the day lounging around; if you do have the opportunity, they do enjoy a good swim! Their heavy coat does require weekly brushing, though, like the Golden Retriever, they only shed moderately. They train well, though it’s wise to ensure the breed is not carrying any of the traditional maladies such as dysplasia, heart disease or cystinuria, or stones in the urinary tract; checking their ears regularly will prevent any infections. Overall, the Newfoundland is a lovable giant with a life expectancy of 9-10 years.
St. Bernard
They aren’t just the stars of the movie Beethoven but great additions to your apartment, too! While they are big dogs, measuring 26-30 inches in height and weighing 120-180pounds, they are of moderate energy and, like their Swiss cousin the Bernese mountain dog, they like to lie around and keep you company. A 30-45 minute walk is sufficient to keep them in shape, though care should be taken in warmer months given their size, coat and tendency to overheat.They are very trainable and affable dogs that get along great with children and other pets.They do require weekly grooming and shed moderately, with potential health concerns being bloat, dysplasia and eye disease. Otherwise, St. Bernards make calm apartment companions who live on average 8-10 years.
Great Dane
Although widely regarded as powerful dog, Great Danes are gentle giants well-suited for being in an apartment. They measure 28-32 inches in height and weigh 110-175 pounds. They are very calm and easy going dogs that enjoy being around people, especially children. Brisk walks throughout the day or a 30-45 minute walk once a day is usually sufficient, especially since they should wait until they are at least 2 before they engage in vigorous exercise to protect their growing joints. They are seasonal shedders, but their short coat only requires minimal brushing. They can be prone to bloat, with other health issues including heart disease and hypothyroidism. In the end, Great Danes remain popular as imposing but graceful companions and live on average 7-10 years.
Shar Pei
Shar Peis are more than just walking wrinkles. They measure 18-20 inches and weigh 45-60 pounds. They are very loyal, though can be somewhat aggressive towards strangers, which makes them a good guard dog but might require training to make them more sociable. They do shed regularly and require occasional cleaning to make sure that their ears and eyes are clear. They are of moderate energy level, but do well in apartments and with owners who prefer a few short walks or a 30-45 minute jaunt a day. Given their unique coat and skin composition, they can be prone to different eye and ear infections. Otherwise, they are low maintenance and quality dogs with life expectancy of 8-12 years.
Rhodesian Ridgeback
Although originally bred to hunt lions, Rhodesian Ridgebacks make great dogs that do well in apartments. They measure 24-27 inches in height and weigh between 70-85 pounds. Rhodesian Ridgebacks can be independent with a high prey drive, but sufficient training with a 30-45 minute walk a day will help to keep their instincts at bay. They shed seasonally and only require a weekly brushing and are generally healthy with the usual joint and eye concerns of larger breeds. Its recommended to train them and socialize them when they are young so that they adjust well to people and other dogs, but otherwise they make great pets that live roughly 10 years on average.
Chow Chow
Somewhere between a Keeshond and a Shar Pei, the Chow Chow is a unique breed suited to apartments. They measure 17-20 inches in height and weigh 45-70 pounds. One of the benefits of a Chow Chow is that they are easily housebroken, relieving a common concern of apartment owners. They also have relatively low exercise needs, with a few brisk walks or a 30 minute walk being sufficient to keep their energy and weight in check. They do shed regularly and require brushing at least 2 times a week. They are a relatively healthy breed, though some concerns relative to their eyes, hip dysplasia and allergies may arise. Overall, they are friendly and likeable companions that live between 8-12 years.
Mastiff
Mastiffs are big dogs, no doubt, but their size is actually an advantage when it comes to living in an apartment. Mastiffs measure anywhere from 27 inches and up and weigh between 120-230 pounds. Their large size makes them great guard dogs, and they get along great with children and other people. They enjoy regular, gentle training, and regular play and daily walks, though 30 minutes can be sufficient to tire them out; like Great Danes, care should be taken when they are young not to stress their growing joints. They shed minimally and require occasional brushing, which is great for those who don’t like pet hair or who have allergies. Given their large size, they can be prone to different conditions such as dysplasia, cancer, heart disease and eye problems. They are lovable beasts that, when healthy, live between 6-10 years.
Special Considerations for Apartment Dogs
Choosing a purebred is the best guarantee to ensure that the temperament, energy levels and health concerns are consistent with the breed. That being said, adopting a rescue or shelter dog is always a great option. While shelter dogs have their own issues that may stem from abuse or neglect, most shelter dogs are given up because of owner issues and just need a loving home. You may be able to find a dog in a shelter that is purebred, but many will also be mixed breed. While temperament and energy levels may be harder to predict, mixed breeds are often healthier and have a more even disposition as opposed to the inbred characteristics found in various breeds.
If you need or have renters insurance, there are some dogs that may prohibit or limit coverage. Of note are two breeds mentioned above, Chow Chows and Great Danes — Mastiffs and Ridgebacks are also occasionally listed of concern. That being noted, most policies limit coverage based on an individual basis and reject applicants if their dogs are trained attack dogs, not neutered or have a history of biting, as the conditions for dog biting most often involve young children and poorly trained dogs.
Whether you’re trying to make sure that your dog is not overly aggressive or a liability for damage, adequate training and diversions can help to keep your dog mentally and physically occupied and not a threat. While you’re away, giving your dogs chew toys, Kongs, stuffed animals or even scattering food can help to keep your dog occupied and entertained. If you’re having trouble training your dog, group or individual training sessions with a professional trainer can help to correct any deficiencies that are creating problems. If you find that you don’t have time to take your dog out frequently enough, dog sitting may be another option.
Fortunately, though, the dogs listed above are varying combinations of easy going, low energy or easily trained and make great dogs, whether in an apartment or anywhere else. We hope you have gained a greater understanding of the options available to welcome a canine into your domain and we hope that you can find the right four-legged friend to share your home.
