Choosing the perfect dog breed for you and your family can be challenging. It is even more of a challenge when you live in an apartment or do not have a yard, and must take space into consideration. If you pick a breed that is too high energy and you don't have an otherwise active lifestyle, it can be disastrous. It is also important to pick a breed that will not wake your neighbors up in the middle of the night barking.
Five breeds that not only survive but thrive in an apartment lifestyle include:
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel—The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a relatively small breed ranging in size from 13-18 lbs. However, they are a friendly breed that is known to be extremely dependent and attached to their owners. They also get along well with most people and pets that they meet, which makes them ideal for an apartment where you may be frequently interacting with neighbors.
2. Bulldog- Bulldogs are gentle, kind dogs whose contentedness with a more couch-potato lifestyle makes them a better match for apartment dwellers than most breeds. They are known for their muscular bodies, wide faces, and short noses. Bulldogs are also known to make excellent pets for families due to their ability to bond strongly with children.
3. Poodle—Poodles are highly intelligent and highly trainable. This trainability makes them ideal apartment dogs, as you can keep their minds stimulated through indoor training and exercise. They also come in a variety of sizes including toy, miniature, and standard poodles, which gives owners a range of options to choose from when searching for the perfect dog. Additionally, they have a reputation for shedding less hair and dander, which makes them less likely to pose a problem for those with allergies.
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4. Greyhounds- Although they are known for racing at speeds that can exceed 40 mph, Greyhounds are better suited for apartment life than many would think. In fact, they can make better apartment pets than some smaller but more active breeds. Although they are usually content to lie on the couch, regular walks are enough to keep them active. Greyhounds are also generally friendly, and they are not generally known to bark excessively, which makes them an ideal breed for apartment living.
5. Great Dane- Just because you live in an apartment does not mean that you must settle for a small dog. Although their average size of 99-200 lbs can be intimidating for some owners, the breed's laid-back attitude and relatively low exercise needs make them an ideal choice for someone who may not have much extra space but desires to have a large dog.
Most dog breeds can be content with small spaces with the proper care and attention. Whatever breed you choose, it is essential to research and pick a dog whose energy needs and personality are right for your family.
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