45 Best Apartment Dogs: Shedding, Barking, and Energy Levels

Apartment living might be small, but it still offers plenty of room for friends, especially the furry variety. A survey shows that out of 1,000 renters, over 70% responded that they have a pet.

Of course, not all dogs make good apartment dogs due to their size and temperament, and some breeds are more likely to be subject to restrictions than others. We’ve got you covered with a list of the 45 best apartment dog breeds, so you and your pup are happy together. Data is sourced from the American Kennel Club.

1. Affenpinscher

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium

The feisty affenpinscher is intelligent, fun, and among the best indoor dogs. However, they are difficult to house train, so make sure you can commit to plenty of outdoor time with them. Affenpinschers also enjoy socializing with other pups and do well with early dog training.

2. American Eskimo Dog

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: Medium to high
• Energy: Medium

The American Eskimo dog is intelligent and enjoys being around other humans — even kids! However, you shouldn't leave them alone for long periods without a check-in, and you will need to train them not to announce everyone walking past the apartment door. They are intelligent and need plenty of daily challenges, so be prepared to train them.

3. American Hairless Terrier

• Shedding: Very low
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium

The American hairless terriers love being at home as apartment pets and rarely shed. They enjoy people but are fiercely protective of their alpha, so they need exposure to other dogs and people early on. With such a small stature and medium energy level, this terrier would be content with playtime and a daily walk.

4. Australian Terrier

• Shedding: Very low
• Barking: Very high
• Energy: High

Australian terriers are bossy and love to be the center of attention. They have high energy, and without plenty of exercise and engagement, they will happily rip apart furniture and rugs. Australian terriers are so loyal that you might even notice yours mimicking your mood.

5. Barbet

• Shedding: Very low
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium

Barbets are devoted swimmers that are generally happy and agreeable. They're content to cuddle or challenge themselves with an indoor game. Barbets need regular grooming and a few daily walks but are generally low-key and easy to enjoy.

6. Basenji

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: Very low
• Energy: High

Basenjis are fabulous, small indoor dogs but require a devoted owner willing to invest in training and attention. Basenjis don't do particularly well with other pets, so make sure they're your only fur baby. These intelligent and engaging dogs are a blast but will also get restless and destructive when they need more exercise.

7. Bitsa

• Shedding: Low to medium
• Barking: Low to medium
• Energy: Low to medium

Bitsas are adorable mixed breeds without any dominant traits. They're mellow, relatively healthy, and usually crowd-pleasers, whether you live with a roommate or with kids. Just note that a bista’s temperament can change based on its specific mix.

8. Basset Fauve de Bretagne

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: High

The basset fauve de Bretagne makes the list of perfect apartment dogs who love to play and take long walks. These dogs are very social and require mental stimulation. If you don’t keep their minds busy, they’ll find a way to do it themselves, but it may not be in a way you’d prefer!

9. Basset Hound

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: High
• Energy: Low

Basset hounds are known for their laid-back personality and lazy attitude. They do drool and shed but are so cute that you may not mind. Their tiny legs may not be ideal for a townhouse with stairs, but they are otherwise content taking one walk a day.

10. Bedlington Terrier

• Shedding: Very low
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: High

Bedlington terriers look like an adorable cross between a lamb and a dog. They enjoy other pets and will keep up with you on a jog or a brisk walk. These terriers require weekly grooming, but their temperament and size are ideal for even small apartments.

11. Bichon Frisé

• Shedding: Very low
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: High

Bichon Frisés are among the best dogs for apartments due to their size, low shedding, and positive disposition. They get along with other pets, kids, and roommates. However, these pups require attention and don't take kindly to being left alone for too long.

12. Biewer Terrier

• Shedding: Very low
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium

The playful Biewer terrier (pronounced as “beaver”) is ideal for apartments with or without backyards. They’re known for being happy-go-lucky with a childlike curiosity. They are hard to silence when strangers are around, but some schooling and a little training will help.

13. Bolognese

• Shedding: Very low
• Barking: Very low
• Energy: Very low

The Bolognese is a very low-maintenance dog and a loyal companion to its people. Bolognese dogs are happy to lounge about and play only when you initiate playtime. They’re known for being highly adaptable.

14. Border Terrier

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium

Border terriers love to dig, hunt, and generally spend time outdoors. As a result, if they’re left alone indoors for too long, they might try to find a place to dig. On the upside, they're active, fun-loving, and don't do much barking if you pay attention to them.

15. Boston Terrier

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: Low
• Energy: High

The small and low-shedding Boston terriers are great indoor dogs. They're gentle with kids and enjoy cuddling and expressing affection. If you live in the South, mind your air conditioning. These terrors tend to overheat and prefer being indoors.

16. Brussels Griffon

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: High
• Energy: Medium

Brussels griffons are among the best dogs for apartments but come with high energy and sensitivity levels. They're also self-important to a fault and like to be the center of attention with their quirky personality. Brussels griffons tend to bond with one person, so they may not be the best if you adopt this pup as a couple.

17. Bulldog

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: Low
• Energy: Medium

Bulldogs make cute apartment dogs with their easygoing nature and ability to cooperate. Short walks are fine for this breed, which is all about afternoon naps. However, don’t overfeed and under-walk them, or they'll quickly become overweight.

18. Cairn Terrier

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: High
• Energy: Medium

As one of the best dog breeds for apartment living, the cairn terrier enjoys time with their people and having a good time. They have a higher energy level but are agreeable and quick to pick up new games. These happy dogs like to be in charge, so make sure they feel like the alpha.

19. Cardigan Welsh Corgi

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: High
• Energy: High

While Cardigan Welsh corgis look friendly and pleasant, they are watchdogs in disguise. They need a structured routine, exercise, and socialization at a young age.

Ensure you train them to stay quiet, or their barking might disturb your neighbors.

20. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium

The fact that Cavalier King Charles spaniels were bred to be lap dogs makes them one of the best dog breeds for apartment living, but they are also athletic and ready to run. They're loyal and enjoy following the person everywhere, so prepare to have them underfoot. Beyond your apartment, they also enjoy going on long walks, jogging, and spending time on trails or beaches.

21. Cesky Terrier

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium

Cesky terriers are ideal small indoor dogs that enjoy spending time with their people and can work as therapy dogs. You’ll find they’re easier to train than other terriers and do have some prey instincts, so they may take care of a mouse problem. They don't shed much but need brushing and clipping at least every month.

22. Chihuahua

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: Very high
• Energy: High

Despite their pint-sized stature, Chihuahuas have large personalities. They make excellent watchdogs but need time to exercise and explore. Chihuahuas can't be left unattended for long but make great companions for errands and traveling.

23. Chinese Crested

• Shedding: Very low
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium

Chinese crested dogs get a lot of attention for their unique coat and intelligence. However, despite their loyalty and frustration in separating from you, they need early training or else they may end up biting strangers.

24. Cocker Spaniel

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: High

Cocker spaniels are people pleasers, and their small size makes them among the best dogs for apartments. You'll enjoy their gentle and loving nature, but they will likely bark without working on their quiet commands.

25. French Bulldog

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: Very low
• Energy: Medium

French bulldogs are great apartment dogs for a reason. They love to play, relax with their humans, and are happy to meet new people. However, they get bored and need exercise and fun to stay happy and content.

26. Coton de Tulear

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: Very low
• Energy: Medium

Coton de Tulears are a small dog breed that always wants you around, but they're equally as adaptable and will follow along with your routine. They're known for being playful and clownish. They are good with other dogs, cats, and kids but are prone to grunting and growling as their preferred method of communication.

27. Dachshund

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: Very high
• Energy: Medium

Dachshunds make fabulous apartment companions due to their small size and affection for their owners. The dachshund is playful, lively, and clever while retaining a sense of courageousness. They're small but mighty and don’t need complex care but do need training to control their barking.

28. Havanese

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: High
• Energy: Medium

Havanese love being right by their owner's side and are affectionate to other pets and strangers alike. They enjoy being apartment dogs and are versatile to your lifestyle. These pups are also known for their love of games and quirky sense of humor that will charm your guests.

29. Italian Greyhound

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium

While Italian greyhounds are fast and energetic, they also love a good nap with their owners. These apartment-friendly dogs are mild mannered and love other pets. They’re not exactly high maintenance, but they do need exercise, even if it’s just a regular walk.

30. Japanese Chin

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: Low
• Energy: Medium

Japanese Chins are designed for apartment living and don't enjoy the outdoors or lounging in yards. But they do love climbing, walking, and playtime. You'll enjoy their mild-mannered personality, but they like to get up high and watch, amused, as you try to get them to come back down.

31. Lhasa Apso

• Shedding: Very low
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium

Lhasa apsos are loyal and ready to hang out with you and your roommates. However, they need ongoing grooming and dental care. And even though they're pretty social, they need early training to ensure their mischievous side doesn't come out too much.

32. Löwchen

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium

Löwchens are among the best dogs for apartments for their playful and gentle nature. While they get along with people and pets, they have prominent personalities. They also have lots of energy, but a half-hour outdoors will do the trick.

33. Maltese

• Shedding: Very low
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium

Despite their small size and furry coats, Maltese dogs are fearless. They aren't afraid to get into trouble but are also gentle and make great companions. This apartment dog is best for owners who are home frequently.

34. Toy Manchester Terrier

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: High
• Energy: High

Toy Manchester terriers are loyal watchdogs at heart. They love exercise, playing, and new challenges, but they're not big on being separated for long periods. They are prone to barking, especially if you leave them alone for too long.

35. Miniature Pinscher

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: Very high
• Energy: Very high

Miniature pinschers come with oversized personalities. They enjoy being the alpha in the house and are quite bossy when left unchecked. However, their small size makes them easy to take with you to dog-friendly parks or local festivals.

36. Pekingese

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: Very low
• Energy: Medium

Pekingese dogs are among the best quiet apartment dogs. They’re unique in that they aren't afraid to show off their ancestral royalty. These pups aren't low-maintenance apartment dogs by any means, but they are perfect for the renter who likes to march to the beat of their own drum.

37. Pomeranian

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: High
• Energy: Medium

Pomeranians are cute and fluffy but come equipped with a sassy, quirky disposition. Their size makes it easy to keep them in an apartment, and some light exercise keeps them happy. These apartment dogs enjoy roaming and meeting new people but are also content to keep up with your busy schedule.

38. Toy Poodle

• Shedding: Very low
• Barking: High
• Energy: High

Toy poodles are renowned for their hypoallergenic fur and are often cross bred to reduce human allergies. They're also destined for the spotlight and are natural performers, making them eager to learn a few tricks. These furry friends are also intelligent and like to be in charge, meaning they need some training to get the rules down.

39. Pug

• Shedding: High
• Barking: Very low
• Energy: Medium

With a pint-sized stature, pugs are among the best dogs for apartments. They're also performers with a desire to watch over their domain. Pugs are also here for all the doggie play dates you can manage. Make sure you give them lots of attention because they will demand to be the center of attention anyway.

40. Schipperke

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: High
• Energy: Medium

Schipperkes are little devils in disguise, though they are great for urban apartments prone to the occasional pest. They tend to be noisy, so you'll need training and exercise to keep them from barking.

41. Shiba Inu

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium

If you have the energy to spare, you've met your challenge in a shiba inu. They're great apartment dogs with an upbeat outlook but need exercise and training. They're outgoing and love to play with humans of all ages, but they do get territorial and protective. They're always up for a game of chase and need some work on keeping their fiery personality under control.

42. Shih Tzu

• Shedding: Very low
• Barking: Medium
• Energy: Medium

Shih Tzus are excellent apartment dogs and are always up for some cuddling and affection. They need some exercise but otherwise are relatively low-energy dogs. Keep your social calendar on alert — these pups are outgoing and enjoy strangers, children, and time with their people.

43. Silky Terrier

• Shedding: Low
• Barking: High
• Energy: Medium

Silky terriers want to spend the day with their owners, whether you're cleaning your apartment or on a Zoom call in your home office. This small breed is among the best dogs for apartments but does have some undesirable behavior when left unattended. They enjoy a good dig and chase, so make sure you give them plenty of exercise and mental challenges.

44. Toy Fox Terrier

• Shedding: Medium
• Barking: High
• Energy: High

The toy fox terrier enjoys apartment life, even without a yard. But they can't deal with cold weather, so make sure you get them some stylish sweaters for winter walks. They also need training and a little reassurance that the outside city noise won’t destroy their happy home.

45. Yorkshire Terrier

• Shedding: Very low
• Barking: High
• Energy: High

The Yorkshire terrier is feisty and ready to take over your entire apartment. They don't mind close quarters but need exercise and socialization to play nice with strangers and other dogs. You might need to save for utilities in summer months, as Yorkies are prone to chills and need a sweater if you want to run the air conditioner on high all summer.

Find Dog Friendly Apartments Near You

If you're ready to adopt a new friend, take the time to choose the best dogs for apartments. You'll need to consider any lease agreement rules, breed restrictions, your own temperament, and the area where you live.

Ready to find a pet-friendly apartment? Sign up with Apartment List to find the perfect place for you and your furry friend. Make sure to select "small" or "large" dogs (or both) when you sign up with us. You can visit your profile anytime to change your preferences.

Best Apartment Dogs FAQs

Are dogs happy in apartments?

Dogs that receive an appropriate amount of exercise, stimulation, and nutrition will be just as happy in an apartment as a house, including large dogs. As long as you walk and play with your dog enough to satisfy its energy levels, dogs do not mind living in smaller spaces.

Is it hard to live with a dog in an apartment?

It is not hard to live with a dog in an apartment if you don't mind taking them to the bathroom and making sure they have regular exercise and stimulation. If you are happy to go outside regularly with your dog, then they probably won't even notice that you don't live in a house.

What breed of dog makes a good apartment dog?

Top breeds for apartment dogs include Affenpinschers, Biewer Terriers, Bulldogs, Italian Greyhounds, and Lhasa Apsos. These dogs all have low to medium levels of shedding, barking, and energy. Our list of 45 best apartment dogs, though, has lots more options for you to choose from.

How do you tire a puppy in an apartment?

If you're stuck inside with a puppy that has the zoomies, here are a few things you can try:

• Meal puzzles
• Puppy push ups
• Obedience training
• Practicing long "stays"
• Running up and down stairs (if you have them)
• Find it

What dog breed has the most separation anxiety?

Chinese cresteds, Manchester terriers, Chihuahuas, and German shepherds tend to have high separation anxiety. However, it depends on the individual dog and whether they're a mixed breed.

What is the quietest dog for an apartment?

The Pekingese wins out if you're looking for the best quiet apartment dogs. They don't bark much but still have feisty personalities. Bulldogs and coton de Tulears, basenjis, and Bologneses are also quiet breeds.

What breed of dog can be left alone?

If you enjoy a busy lifestyle, ensure you get a dog that can deal with being left alone. Greyhounds, basset hounds, and French bulldogs are all usually alone but are still happy to see you when you get home.