You live in an apartment that does allow dogs but you are not sure which breed you would like to get; one that is great for apartment living. Well, to start, size is obviously a definitive factor. You certainly would not choose a Great Dane or St. Bernard. They would need a lot of space.
A 1st choice for me was the cute Chihuahua. They are small, easy to potty train, even in a litter box or on paper/puppy pads. They certainly can get ample exercise just running around the apartment, weighing in between 4 and 6 pounds. They do tend to be barkers at times but can be trained to be more on the quiet side. They do get a bad rap at being mean but it is in all how you raise them. Tease and ignore them, rough house them, they will tend to be more on the aggressive side but I guarantee if you baby them, play with them a lot and give them a lot of physical love and attention and they will be very loyal to you and be a very affectionate choice to all who enter your doors. They are also very easy care as for grooming.
Another great apartment choice that is not quite as popular is the Schipperke, a small dog up to about 10 pounds, all black with longer fur. They need a little more grooming as far as baths and brushing out. They are great companion dog, very playful and would definitely need a lot of exercise and daily walks.
Pugs, weighing in between 10 and 25 pounds, are a popular choice with people, small and compact, a pushed in face, a clown at heart and another easy care dog. He is a great family dog and as long as he does get his brief walks daily, he will be happy to relax and sleep most of his day away.
Terriers are always great choices for apartment dwellers. There are choices like the Yorkshire terrier, a darling small breed, a great personality, great with family, loyal, requiring regular grooming. They do have lot spunk but are great couch dwellers. The Scottish terrier is just a bit bigger, between 10 – 15 pounds and also requires regular grooming. They are quite intelligent dogs, need their regular exercise, and are very loyal and protective of their families. The West Highland terrier (Westie) is definitely another favorite of people and a great apartment dweller. They do need their daily exercise and regular grooming and tend to be great watch dogs and a good, loyal companion.
How about another great family favorite, the Cocker Spaniel? They tend to get up to about 25 pounds, they do need regular grooming and their daily walks for exercise, and are very loyal, laying around all day waiting for their owners return. They are adorable as is the Welsh corgi. This stocky short tailed breed can get to about 25 pounds but does not need a lot of space to be happy.
There are so many breeds out there that would do well in an apartment so doing your research to see what breed would best fit into your life and lifestyle is beneficial. Other breeds you may want to research are Whippets, Italian Greyhounds (only about 10 pounds), the Bischon, Lhasa,
Toy and Miniature Poodles, and Boxers. There are so many breeds out there to choose from.
Don’t forget smaller sized mutts and mixed breeds as well. There are many dogs out there in shelters that need your rescue. Be sure to check with them often as new dogs come in all the time. There are many mixed varieties that make wonderful little pets for your companionship in an apartment. And they desperately need you as much if not more than you need them. Show them they love and their love and appreciation in return will definitely be unconditional.
