Best Apartment Dogs

The strongest apartment choices here are the French Bulldog, Boston Terrier, and Poodle (Miniature), followed by the quieter small breeds Basenji and Shiba Inu. Chow Chow and Labrador Retriever make the list only for owners who can provide regular exercise and tolerate a larger dog.

1. #1French Bulldog

   Males typically weigh 20-28 pounds and stand only 10-12 inches tall, so it fits comfortably in a small apartment and needs just short daily walks. Its low-energy, easygoing temperament suits close-quarters living, though it is known for snoring.

2. #2Boston Terrier

   Weighing 6-25 lbs and standing 9-15 inches, the Boston Terrier is compact and requires only a couple of moderate walks a day. It is affectionate, people-oriented, and generally less vocal than many terriers, which works well in shared housing.

3. #3Poodle

   The Poodle comes in Standard, Medium, and Miniature sizes, so apartment dwellers can pick a smaller variety within the breed's 20-71 kg range. Poodles are highly trainable, calm, and typically quiet, and their coat sheds little for indoor living.

4. #4Basenji

   At 24-35 pounds and 16-17 inches tall, the Basenji is small and famously quiet, rarely barking — a major advantage for apartments. It does need substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation, so owners should plan active walks and consistent training.

5. #5Shiba Inu

   Males weigh 15-25 pounds and stand 13-17 inches, making the Shiba Inu one of the smallest candidates and easy to accommodate. It is usually more reserved and less vocal than many breeds, though its independent streak means it needs patient training and moderate daily exercise.

6. #6Chow Chow

   Though a medium to large breed (males 55-75 pounds, 17-22 inches), the Chow Chow is famously calm, low-key, and quiet indoors, needing only moderate exercise. Its aloof nature and heavy shedding suit apartment owners who want a settled, undemanding companion.

7. #7Labrador Retriever

   At 65-80 pounds and 22.5-24.5 inches tall, the Labrador Retriever is the largest breed on this list and needs plenty of exercise, so it ranks last. It is highly trainable and sociable, and can adapt to apartment life if owners commit to daily walks and enrichment.