Cats

Fish

Rabbits

Birds

Horses

4 of the Best Dog Breeds for Apartments

Lisa Selvaggio
by Lisa Selvaggio
Published:  January 29th, 2025

If you live in an apartment and want to get a dog to call your own, there are certain breeds that are better suited to living in smaller spaces. To help you get started on your search for the perfect apartment dog, here’s a list of four breeds that might be the ideal choice.

Olezzo/Shutterstock

1. Shih Tzu


The little Shih Tzu grows to be an average of 9 to 10.5 inches tall and 9 to 16 pounds, so this is a good breed for those living in apartments, small homes, or condos. These dogs also make great family pets because they get along well with kids. And if you are looking for a lapdog, this one will not disappoint.


Shih Tzus are also a good choice for anyone who doesn’t lead an active lifestyle, as these dogs don’t require a lot of exercise. You can let your canine play in a yard if you have access to one, in addition to going on some short walks every day, to keep them active and happy.


2. Bichon Frise


Another small dog that can be comfortable living in an apartment is the Bichon Frise. These friendly, adaptable, and affectionate canines get along great with children and other dogs. They grow to be 9 to 12 inches tall and around 12 to 18 pounds.


Like all dogs, Bichons need exercise to let their energy out, so be sure to find ways of getting them active every day. For example, you can play with your dog indoors, take them out for walks, head to the dog park, and enjoy playtime together in the backyard. These fast little dogs can even participate in fun activities like agility.


3. Basenji


The Basenji reaches an average height of 16 to 17 inches, and weighs an average of 22 to 24 pounds. Referred to as the “barkless dog,” they aren’t only a good size for apartment living but they can also be quiet enough to not disturb the neighbors.  


Described as cat-like, these dogs groom themselves. They are active and high-energy, so if they aren’t given enough physical activity and mental stimulation every day, they can get bored. If you live in an apartment with access to a yard, that’s a great place where they can let their energy out, but you can also let them participate in activities like dog sports in addition to daily walks.


4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel


The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is another good dog for apartments, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). This breed is part of the toy group, and grows to be 12 to 13 inches tall and 13 to 18 pounds. They get along wonderfully with children and other dogs, and are very affectionate.


These beautiful and sweet dogs are gentle and athletic. And this breed will adapt to your lifestyle, whether you’re very active or not. Overall, these canines need a moderate amount of exercise but will also gladly relax while sitting in your lap.


Keep Your Apartment Dog Active


Different breeds have different exercise needs, and activity level is one of the most important things to consider when looking for a dog, regardless of how big your home is. In addition to spending time in the great outdoors, there are many ways to keep your canine companion active indoors, even in a small apartment.


Products like the ChuckIt! Indoor Fetch Tumbler Dog Toy are a lot of fun, and they’re designed for indoor play sessions. This toy is shaped in a way that makes it easy to toss for indoor games of fetch, and easy for your dog to grab with their mouth. It also softly bounces but won’t make a lot of noise because it’s durable yet soft, covered in chenille fabric that won’t be damaging to floors. Plus, to provide variety, there are similar toys of varying shapes that you can add to your dog’s toy collection.

Squeak toys are also a great choice for entertaining indoor play. A good example is the Outward Hound Fattiez Pig Plush Dog Toy, which is soft, round, and plush and makes a gentle squeak when your dog bites into it or presses on it. It’s even designed with minimal seams to help it last longer. You can also choose from other farm animal designs, like a sheep, cow, and chicken, which come in different sizes and make different sounds.

Bring Your New Best Friend Home to Your Apartment!


There are plenty of dog breeds that are perfect for pet parents who live in apartments of all sizes. When looking into dog breeds for apartment living, consider factors like the dog’s adult size, how loud they can be and how much they bark, and how active they need to be. Once you consider the dog’s needs, you will be able to more easily figure out if your home will provide the right environment for them.


Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

WOW
Lisa Selvaggio
Lisa Selvaggio

Lisa Selvaggio is a freelance writer and editor, and our resident cats-pert, with certifications in pet nutrition and pet first aid. She enjoys producing content that helps people understand animals better so they can give their pets a safe and happy home.

More by Lisa Selvaggio

Are Grain-Free Diets Good for Dogs?
Are Grain-Free Diets Good for Dogs?
View Article
Next
Related articles
What Is the Best Dog Breed for Children?

If your kids have been begging for a dog and you’re finally ready for your family to grow by four paws, congratulations! It’s an exciting time. You are likely picturing happy afternoons together at the park, playful cuddles on the couch, and a pup who will grow with your family – especially with your child. But with so many dog breeds to choose from, finding the right fit can be overwhelming. You may have heard whispers of “the best dog breeds for kids.” Many online articles list Golden Retrievers, Labradors, and even some smaller breeds as the ideal family dog. While it’s true that these breeds are often friendly and playful, the truth is that the “best dog for kids” will depend on more than just the breed.In this guide, we will look at the most important factors and considerations when choosing your next family dog. Plus, we have collected some expert advice that may surprise you. Remember, the secret to finding the perfect dog for your family lies in research, careful consideration, and a commitment to doing right by both your children and your new pup. Debunking the Myth of the “Perfect” Family-Friendly Dog Breed While some breeds are better known for their family-friendly behavior traits, we must remember that every dog is an individual. Just like humans, dogs of the same breed may come with a wide range of personalities. Some may be more playful and tolerant of young children, while others may be more independent, nervous, or prone to anxiety. Furthermore, your dog’s personality isn’t solely based on their genetics. Much of a dog’s temperament is influenced by their upbringing. Proper socialization and training from a young age, regardless of the breed, can help your dog learn what behaviors you deem appropriate (especially around children). So, while some breeds are more likely to be a good fit in a family home, we must always remember that there is no guarantee! Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dog When deciding on your dog’s breed or the individual dog themselves, there are a few important factors to consider. This includes: Living Situation I firmly believe that a dog can thrive in just about any living situation given the right dedication from their humans, but choosing a dog that is well-suited for your situation will set you and your new dog up for success. Do you live in an apartment? A smaller, quieter (less barking), low-shedding dog breed may be a bitter fit than a larger, high-energy dog. If you have a house with a yard, you’ll have more space for an active pup to exercise and play. Other factors to consider include whether you have a fence (some dogs, like the Siberian Husky, are a bigger flight risk) and the amount of space within your home, especially if you’re considering a larger dog like a Great Dane. Family Lifestyle Does your family enjoy going for long hikes? Is there someone in your home who goes for a daily run and would love a dog interested in joining them? Or are you more of a couch potato bunch? Recognizing your family’s lifestyle will help you choose a dog breed that matches your vibe. A high-energy breed like the Border Collie is an excellent choice for an active household, but they may become bored or destructive if they aren’t getting enough exercise. On the other hand, a more relaxed and laid-back dog like the English Bulldog may struggle to keep up with the demands of a more active family. Your Child’s Age and Maturity LevelUp to this point, we have been talking about family-friendly dogs as if all children are created equally. But this clearly isn’t the case. The patience, understanding, and maturity of a 10-year-old child will be considerably different than that of a young toddler. Even within a specific age bracket, some children will be more mature and more willing to help with the dog than others. No one knows your child(ren) better than you. Take a moment to consider your child’s maturity level, personality, and specific needs in a dog. Commitment to Training and Socialization Training and socialization are essential for all breeds, but some dogs will likely need a little extra work to set them up for success in a home with kids. For example, a herding breed with natural herding instincts may be more tempted to wrangle your children. This may not seem problematic until you consider the fact that breeds like the Australian Cattle Dog herd livestock by nipping at their heels. When selecting a dog breed, consider how much time you’re willing and able to dedicate to their ongoing training and socialization. AllergiesIf anyone in your family suffers from allergies, including the extended family who often comes to visit, you may want to consider a hypoallergenic breed. The term is slightly misleading, as no dog breed is 100% allergy-free. However, dogs that are considered hypoallergenic generally shed less or produce less dander.

Top 10 Best Dog Breeds For Apartments

Got a lotta love to give, but not much room to live? Don’t worry! There’s still a doggo out there for you. Take a peek at our top picks of dog breeds for apartments

Top 10 Best Dog Breeds For Apartments Part II

We couldn’t cover them all with our first list, so we’re bringing you another. Here’s part two of our top 10 best dog breeds for apartments and condos. You’re yearning for a pooch but a reality check on your budget shows the house in the burbs with the white picket fence and big back yard isn’t in the cards just yet. No worries, there’s a dog to fit any size of living quarters and surprisingly a small square footage doesn’t necessarily mean a pint sized pooch. Here’s the second edition of our list of the Top 10 best dog breeds for apartments.

Top 10 Best Dog Breeds for Running

Looking for a jogging buddy? Look no further than these four legged ones! Here are our picks for the top 10 dog breeds for running. If you’re a runner and are thinking it would be fun to have a pooch to keep you company while on your jogs, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Ask yourself these questions: Do you run long or short distances? Do you run in the city or do you prefer to take your trek to off-road locales with trails and hills? Do you typically run with a group, or is your style more solo? And are your running conditions year-round – including hotter days – or do you opt for a treadmill when the weather turns too hot or cold? Related: 6 Tips To Improve Your Dog’s Physical Fitness Regardless of your answers to these questions, you can be sure that there’s dog breed for you. And if you already have a favorite pooch that you’d love to start training to head out with you, we offer some tips to help keep outings enjoyable for both. So, before you lace up your Nikes, pop in your ear-buds, and head out the door with your new running companion, lets consider the following: Train Obedience Whether you’re using a leash or allowing your pet to run alongside you, he must be trained on the basics in case you run into other animals, runners, or traffic. Commands including “come”, “leave it”, “sit”, “stay”, or “follow” will help prevent your dog from yanking on his lead and potentially causing you to fall, or him from running off and becoming injured. And if your intent is to keep him leashed during these outings, make sure he walks well on a lead before you try running with him. Note to self: bring lots of handy treats. Build Stamina All dogs love to run, but not all are designed to maintain a fast pace or continue for long distances. Ease your pooch into this new form of exercise by running for brief, 10-minute periods of time, or for short, half-mile distances, at a slower pace. Build his stamina weekly, while also watching for whether your dog actually enjoys the process. Does he get excited when you pull out his leash, or head for his bed. Some breeds are not designed for longer, forced runs, so in those instances, consider keeping it a fun-run at the leash-free. Take your cue from your dog, and respect his physical limitations. Pace Yourselves Start with how much exercise your pooch needs on a daily basis. Factor in his age, breed, weight, and identify the ideal length of time he should be active. If its 60 minutes, then a 3-hour run would be overdoing it – even if he seems up for it. Use common sense and tailor your run to suit your pooch. Maybe he just accompanies you on a good warm-up run, or you plan some frequent rest stops along the way. And understand at what age your dog is considered fully grown. Starting a rigorous exercise regimen when he’s young and before his bones have fully developed can cause injury and permanently sideline your running buddy. Ready to explore some of the best running companions, you’ll ever find? Standard Poodle

Top 10 Best Dog Breeds for Families

It’s time to add another member to your ranks! If you’re looking for the best dog breeds for families, check out our top 10 picks. These dogs fit in with fams so well, they’ll feel more like relatives than pets.

What is Trancing in Dogs?

If your dog likes to take it really slow and easy when walking under objects, he may be trancing.

Drones With Thermal Imaging Help Find Missing Pets

There are many strategies you can use to find a pet who has gone missing, and most people start with the basics like posting flyers around town and posting about their lost pet online. Also, if your pet is microchipped, the hope is that, if they are found by someone, they will be taken to a veterinarian or animal shelter and be scanned so you can be contacted right away.But what if your pet gets lost and no one is able to find them, even though you’ve put the word out and have looked everywhere? Well, a drone with thermal imaging technology might be just what you need.

What Are Symptoms of Anxiety in Dogs?

Just like humans, dogs can experience stress and anxiety due to various factors - separation from their owners, loud noises, unfamiliar environments, or even past trauma. While occasional nervousness is normal, chronic anxiety can lead to behavioral and health issues. Recognizing the signs early allows you to take steps to ease your dog's distress and improve their overall well-being.Common Signs of Anxiety in DogsDogs show anxiety in different ways, ranging from subtle body language changes to more obvious behavioral problems. Here are some key symptoms to watch for:Behavioral SignsExcessive Barking or Whining – If your dog frequently whines, howls, or barks, especially when left alone, it could be a sign of separation anxiety.

How to Choose the Right Perches for Your Bird

A pet bird needs perches to rest, play, and even clean their beak. But when you start shopping for perches for your feathered companion’s cage, you might feel overwhelmed by all of the options. There are perches of all different sizes, materials, and shapes, and you might not know what’s right for your bird. That’s why we’ve put together this brief guide to bird perches.

Can Cats be Disciplined? You Might Be Surprised!

While renowned for being shameless, you may just be able to win the battle of the wills when it comes to taking charge.

American Kennel Club Releases Top Breeds for 2024

And we take a peek at those that came in dead last. Are we now off hunting breeds?

Cat Dies from Bird Flu, Raw Pet Food Recalled

We previously told you about cats who died from bird flu after drinking raw milk that was infected with the virus. New reports state that another cat has died, this time after eating raw meat infected with H5 bird flu, prompting a pet food recall and causing more concern among pet parents.

7 Toy Dog Breeds That Stay Tiny and Adorable

Do you find little dogs irresistible? Maybe it’s their compact size or the fact that you can comfortably hold them in your arms. Maybe you’re looking for a dog who will stay small so you can more easily take them wherever you go, or so you can live comfortably with them in a small house or apartment. Whatever your reason is for your search for tiny dogs, there are a host of toy dog breeds that are sure to fulfill your expectations. Here are just seven of the many adorably small doggies that make awesome pets.

Man Reunited with Dog After Cancer Kept Them Apart for Two Years

A man had to give up his beloved dog while he was battling cancer, but two years later, they were reunited.

When Should I Seek the Help of a Cat Behaviorist?

Address Problems and Improve Your Cat’s Life with a Cat BehavioristIf you’re concerned about your cat’s behavior, please don’t hesitate to seek help. Early intervention can make a significant difference in your cat’s health and well-being. After all, many of these behaviors are rooted in your cat’s mental and emotional health due to stress, anxiety, fear, and other factors.Most cat behavior problems can be addressed and resolved with patience, consistency, and a little professional guidance. With the right support, your cat can overcome whatever challenges they face and thrive! Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter  here.

What Should I Do if My Dog Won't Stop Coughing?

Imagine waking up in the middle of the night to the sound of your dog’s persistent coughing. It’s a scenario that no pet parent wants to face, one that can bring panic and stress. But it’s also an important reminder about one crucial point: Coughing in dogs, while sometimes seemingly minor, can be a sign of underlying health issues – some of which can be pretty serious!The causes of a dog’s cough can vary from simple irritations to more concerning medical conditions. That’s why it’s so important to recognize that a persistent cough isn’t something to ignore.This blog post will provide the information you need to better understand your dog’s cough, identify the potential causes, and (most importantly) know when to seek immediate veterinary help. I will share the different types of coughs, how to recognize the more common causes, and steps you can take to prevent that unwanted cough; keeping your dog happy and healthy.Understanding Coughing in DogsCoughing is a natural reflex designed to clear the airways of irritants. An occasional cough might not be a cause for alarm. In fact, it may even be healthy. For example, if your dog was sniffing outdoors and inhaled a bunch of pollen, coughing could effectively clear this common allergen out of their system. But a persistent cough is a different story.Your dog’s ongoing or constant coughing could signal that something isn’t right, and paying attention is crucial. Understanding the nuances of your dog’s cough and communicating them to your veterinarian can help you reach a diagnosis and find a suitable treatment option faster.Here are the most common types of canine coughs:Honking Cough: Often described as sounding like a goose, this type of cough is frequently associated with kennel cough or tracheal collapse.Dry, Hacking Cough: This type of cough might point towards kennel cough as well, but it could also be triggered by many common allergies or other irritants your dog has been exposed to. Wet, Productive Cough: A wet cough often sounds like your dog is bringing something up. This can be more concerning and is usually associated with pneumonia, heart disease, or other severe medical conditions.Coughing Followed by Vomiting or Gagging: While sometimes seen with kennel cough, it could signal something more serious if your dog is vomiting after they cough.The distinction between these different types is so important. By carefully noting the specific sound and characteristics of your dog’s cough, you can provide your veterinarian with key information they may not be able to collect during an appointment. We’ve all been to a vet appointment where we’ve tried to explain what’s happening because it somehow magically stopped the moment we walked through the door.A short video recording on your phone can be incredibly helpful, allowing your vet to hear the cough firsthand.Common Causes of Coughing in DogsSeveral factors can contribute to your dog’s cough, ranging from minor ailments to serious medical conditions. As a responsible and loving dog parent, I recommend learning the most common causes and what other symptoms to look out for to help you better understand what your dog is experiencing.Kennel Cough (Infectious Tracheobronchitis)This highly contagious respiratory infection often spreads in places where large numbers of dogs congregate, such as boarding facilities, dog parks, and kennels. It’s characterized by a distinctive “honking” cough, which may be accompanied by other cold-like symptoms. While kennel cough will often clear up on its own (much like a human cold), sometimes antibiotics or cough suppressants are necessary. Fortunately, vaccination is an effective preventative measure, especially if you know your dog often frequents high-risk areas.Tracheal CollapseThis occurs when the trachea, or windpipe, weakens. Tracheal collapse most often affects small breeds, but it can happen in any size of dog. The hallmark symptom is a goose-like “honking” couch, which can worsen with excitement or exercise. If you suspect you may be dealing with tracheal collapse, contact your veterinarian. Treatment options include medications, weight management, and, in some cases, surgery.Heart DiseaseThe heart is likely not the first thing that comes to mind when considering the cause of a cough, but coughing can be a significant symptom of heart disease, particularly heart failure. This couch is often worse at night or after exercise and may be accompanied by other signs of heart trouble, like fatigue, weakness, and difficulty breathing. If your dog is diagnosed with heart disease, they will need ongoing management of the underlying heart condition by your veterinarian.Pneumonia Pneumonia, an inflammation of the lungs, can be caused by bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. It is typically associated with a wet, productive cough. Other common symptoms of pneumonia in dogs include:FeverDifficulty breathing or swallowingNasal dischargeRapid heart rateAltered moodChanges in appetiteLethargy or sluggishnessTreatment for pneumonia usually involves antibiotics. Your dog may also require supportive care, addressing some of the symptoms to allow their body to heal. For example, if your dog is struggling with loss of appetite, your vet may recommend an appetite stimulant.Allergies and IrritantsJust like humans, dogs can suffer from environmental allergies and react to inhaled irritants like smoke, dust, and pollen. These allergies and irritants usually trigger a dry, hacking cough. You may also notice other signs your dog is suffering from allergies, such as sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes, ear infections, inflamed skin, and paw licking. Treatment usually involves antibiotics and supportive care.Canine DistemperThis serious and potentially fatal viral illness is thankfully preventable through vaccination. However, if you have a young puppy who hasn’t completed their puppy vaccination schedule, they are at risk. Coughing is one of the most common symptoms, along with fever and neurological signs. If you suspect your dog may have distemper, it is an emergency and requires immediate veterinary care. Treatment is supportive and often intensive.

Antifreeze Poisoning In Dogs – How To Recognize It and What To Do

Antifreeze is a familiar product for many car owners, especially during the colder months. While essential for preventing freezing in vehicles and heating systems, antifreeze can pose a grave threat to dogs if not handled carefully. The primary ingredient in many antifreeze products, ethylene glycol, is sweet-tasting but highly toxic. Even small amounts can be lethal, making it crucial for dog owners to recognize the symptoms of antifreeze poisoning and respond promptly. Here’s what you need to know.Why Is Antifreeze Dangerous?Ethylene glycol, the key component in most antifreeze products, is highly toxic and dangerously appealing to dogs due to its sweet taste. Accidental spills, leaks from vehicles, or improperly stored containers can easily expose pets to this substance. For example:A car leak might pool antifreeze on a driveway or garage floor.Heating and ventilation units can leak antifreeze into accessible areas.Open or unsecured containers of antifreeze can tempt curious dogs.Once ingested, ethylene glycol is metabolized by the liver into harmful compounds that severely damage the kidneys and other vital organs.Symptoms of Antifreeze PoisoningAntifreeze poisoning progresses rapidly, typically occurring in three stages:Stage 1 (30 minutes to 12 hours post-ingestion):VomitingExcessive thirst and urinationStaggering or uncoordinated movementsLethargySeizuresStage 2 (12 to 24 hours post-ingestion):Temporary improvement or “apparent recovery”Ongoing internal damage, especially to the kidneysStage 3 (24 to 72 hours post-ingestion):Kidney failure symptoms such as vomiting, loss of appetite, and little to no urinationSwollen abdomenComa and death if untreatedWhat to Do If You Suspect Antifreeze PoisoningIf you suspect your dog has ingested antifreeze, time is critical. Follow these steps:Seek Veterinary Care Immediately: Contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital without delay. The sooner treatment begins, the better the chances of recovery.Do Not Induce Vomiting Unless Directed: Inducing vomiting can cause complications and should only be done under veterinary guidance.Provide Information: Bring the antifreeze container to the veterinarian if possible. This helps them identify the specific toxins involved.Treatment OptionsVeterinary treatment for antifreeze poisoning depends on the severity of exposure. Common methods include: Activated Charcoa l: Administered to absorb toxins in the stomach.Antidotes: Medications such as fomepizole or ethanol that block ethylene glycol metabolism.Intravenous Fluids: To support kidney function and flush toxins from the body.Continuous Monitoring: Close supervision to manage symptoms and ensure recovery.

Is Your Cat a Picky Eater? Things to Consider About Their Food

It’s no secret that cats can be picky eaters, and pet food companies have responded by making a variety of foods in a range of textures and flavors to suit every finicky feline’s preferences. If your kitty isn’t eating, here are some of the things to consider about their food to see if you can make some changes that will keep them happy.  

About Privacy Terms Contact us Copyright
© 2025  VerticalScope Inc. All rights reserved.