Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy having a dog as a pet. Some breeds are actually quite well-suited to smaller living spaces. As long as you care for the dog properly and meet its needs, certain “long-bodied” breeds can adapt nicely to apartment life. Here are 5 good options to consider if you want a loyal companion in your home.
These dogs tend to be slimmer overall but still pack plenty of personality. With walks, playtime, and training, they’ll be happy indoors too. Just use your common sense – get a size that fits, and a breed okay with less outdoor room. A dog is a commitment, but the right match can joy to any home, regardless of size.
1. Dachshund
Wiener dogs, or Dachshunds, are one of the best small breeds for apartment dwellers. Even though they’re low to the ground, these pups have a ton of personality packed into their long bodies.
Despite their small size, Dachshunds are brave, curious little dogs who are always up for some kind of adventure. As long as you keep them busy and engaged inside, they’ll be happy even without a yard.
When you’re living together inside, it pays to get some essentials to keep your wiener dog comfy and entertained. Harnesses made for their body shape prevent them from squirming out during walks. Look for sturdy leashes too since they tend to pull. Puzzle toys, bones, and interactive feeders help exercise their sharp minds.
For those chilly days, consider getting your Dachshund some cozy clothing like jackets, hoodies, and sweaters. This will not only keep them warm but also make them look stylish.
Dachshunds are surprisingly good swimmers, but for their safety, itโs best to have them wear a life jacket. This ensures they stay afloat and enjoy their time in the water without any risk. There is great gear you can find here.
You might also want something like an anti-bark collar or ultrasonic deterrent for when they get chatty. Keep them active with short walks on their leash, and be careful with jumping and stairs for their spinal health. With the right gear and attention, these fun-sized dogs can thrive alongside you anywhere. Their spunky personalities make all the difference in any home.
2. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are such a chill dog for apartment living. Even though they’re low riders, these pups have a calm, laid-back personality. No stranger to relaxation, Bassets are total couch potatoes who do best with a little bit of daily exercise rather than high-energy play.
Make sure your hound has a comfy spot to lounge – an orthopedic bed supports their back and shorter legs. As sniffers, they also like toys with scents to keep their food-driven minds engaged. Puzzles, treats and interactive play keeps them from getting bored or nibbling furniture.
Leash training is important since Bassets follow their noses anywhere. Get a harness instead of a collar so they don’t strain their necks when the smell is really good. And figure out a way for them to get on/off furniture without jumping, to protect those joints. With the right cuddle companions and low-key activities, these laidback pups are perfect apartment dogs.
3. Italian Greyhound
Even though they look delicate, these “mini greyhounds” have soft coats and calm personalities. Known for their love of snuggles, Italian Greyhounds are total couch potatoes who don’t need much space at all.
Despite how slender they seem, these pups are quite hardy for their size. A walk each day gives them a chance to stretch and smell stuff, but otherwise they’re content to curl up inside. Their exercise needs are lowkey compared to bigger breeds.
Greyt qualities include being very quiet – definitely a plus for apartment living. These shy dogs don’t yap much at all. They bond strongly with their people too, sticking close like velcro. Cuddles and pets are what Italians crave most each day. For folk wanting a calm, affectionate companion, these snuggle bugs are ideal.
4. French Bulldog
Despite their stocky builds, these pint-sized dogs have charming looks and laidback personalities. And boy do they know it too – Frenchie’s love being the center of attention.
Low energy is their middle name. A couple of walks each day plus playtime inside is plenty for these couch potatoes. They don’t bark much either which is great for apartments. These pals just wanna cuddle up beside you and soak up affection.
Their calm dispositions make Frenchies content without a yard to run. As long as they get love and attention, these social butterflies are happy just hanging indoors with you. Their companionship is ideal if you work from home too, keeping boredom away.
Bonded to their people, these merry mugs thrive on interaction. With their friendly natures, Frenchies fit right into the neighborhood too. In every way, their qualities scream perfect apartment buddy. Just look at that smiling face – how could you not want one?
5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels just melt your heart with their friendly faces. These royal pups make ideal companions whether you live alone or with family. With their adaptable natures, Cavaliers are happy indoors without needing a yard to play all day.
Loyalty is their middle name – these dogs want to be by your side, following you from room to room. Perfect for apartment living since they keep close. Cavs also get along great with kids and other pets, content just to be with their people.
Their energy levels stay chill – daily walks plus games inside suffice. Small in stature too, so they don’t take up much space cavorting indoors. These fellows aren’t big barkers either, a definite plus for close quarters.
Cav Coats call for regular grooming TLC to keep them blooming. But they’re not heavy shedders, keeping cleanup minimal with regular brushing. Yet their royal appearance reflects gentle souls underneath – soft hearts that make Cavs captivating companions no matter where you live.
Last Words
When living in an apartment, it’s important to pick the right pup based on their nature, needs and how they’ll handle less space. Dogs with longer frames can actually be perfect matches thanks to manageable sizes and big hearts in small packages. Even with limited room to roam, these special breeds bring outsized affection.
True companions to their people, these pups are devoted and find joy alongside you anywhere. With commitment to their care and enrichment, both physical and mental, you’ll find a joyful partnership together anywhere.
