1 of 38

Write now Article Tools

If you are an apartment dweller and also a lover of dogs, don't be discouraged into thinking that you can't have both. You can! There are certainly many breeds who do quite well in apartments and will provide you with years of companionship and love if you prepared to take care of them in the way that they need and deserve. A common misconception among those who live in smaller quarters is that they must get a lapdog. This is not true at all. Many people love the smaller breeds but there are those who don't and that is okay, too. The following are my top five favorite dogs that do wonderfully in apartment living.

1)Shih tzu-These tiny dogs have some of the biggest hearts you'll find in the canine world. They are small for those who prefer this to the larger breeds and stunning in appearance when properly cared for. Their grooming needs outweigh those of other dogs, but their energy levels are fairly low. To them, your apartment will be enormous and have plenty of room to run and play when they want to. Most of the time, however, they'll be more than happy to just be with you, snuggling and lounging around. They are not as noisy as other small dogs. In fact, our shih tzu rarely barks at all. They also do not shed which helps keep things clean and tidy.

2)English Bulldog-To say that this dog is a sedate and mild-mannered roommate is to put it lightly. With their droopy skin and tired eyes, they exude even a look of a dog that just wants to laze around and enjoy life. They are not noisy, but might give a courtesy bark to let you know if someone's approaching your door. Overall, this is a pet you can be lazy with, but love with your whole heart.

3)Great Dane-Don't let the size of this gentle giant fool you, they are super for apartment life. Their exercise needs can be met easily with a brisk walk daily. They may take up alot of space, but only one space, as they rarely want to move from your side on the sofa. If you are gone all day, it would be good to have someone come in to spend some time with him or her to prevent boredom. One thing you don't want is a great dane who begins creating his or her own fun.

4)Retired Greyhound-These dogs may be bundles of energy as they race around the track, but once they retire, they want nothing more than love and a good, long rest. Your apartment will provide them a nice napping space and you will be able to give the love and affection they are craving.

5)Dachsund-The dachsund is a lovely dog for apartment life. After the puppy stage, they are fairly sedate and the energy that they do have to expel can be burned off easily with a few runs around the living room. Dachsunds are prone to obesity so monitor their feedings, rather than leaving a bowl of food out for them all the time. A daily walk will also help keep them in shape and healthy so they can enjoy long lives with their human friends.

Apartment life doesn't mean life alone. If you wish to obtain a canine companion and your complex allows it, try one of these breeds. They will love nothing more than sharing time with you in your dwelling. They don't care how big that space is, as long as you're in it. They don't tend to be too noisy, so your neighbors won't feel that they are sharing your pet. They don't require immense amounts of exercise. All in all, they are suited just right for you and your apartment.

Learn more about this author, Victoria Tiegert.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about The best dogs for apartment living?
We want to hear your view. Write now!