There are plenty of dog breeds that do well in small flats, you just have to consider a few things when selecting your new BFF. So while it's easy to feel like you're unable to raise a dog (aka start living your dream life) while living in a small flat — what if they don't have enough space to play [1], annoy your neighbours, or make your space feel claustrophobic [2] once they've moved in with all their toys? Here's the thing: You can make raising the doggy of your dreams work in a small flat, you just have to choose the right breed.
According to the American Kennel Club [3], small flat dwellers have lots of options [4] when it comes to choosing their new roomie, and it's not all about size. You should also consider a breed's activity level, how much noise they'll make, and other personality traits.
Read on for the top 10 dog breeds for small flat living.
Greyhounds
It may be surprising to some, but Greyhounds are known as 45 m.p.h. couch potatoes [5]. All they need is a quick walk or the chance to run all out at the dog park for a bit, and they're down to lounge for the rest of the day — making your small apartment [6] a fine place for them to hang. They're not big barkers either, as long as they have plenty of love.
Basenjis
Known as Africa's "barkless" dog [7], Basenjis make a perfectly quiet, highly intelligent roommate for your small apartment. Worry no more about thin walls or sensitive neighbours [8], because these cuties only let out the occasional chortle or yodel (and who wouldn't enjoy that?). They're also small — rarely growing taller than 18 inches — and they don't shed!
Mastiffs
Despite their colossal size, Mastiffs can live happily in a small apartment [9] due to their comparatively low exercise requirements. They'll easily outweigh you by adulthood, but a Mastiff's loyal, patient, and loving nature makes you the lucky one when it comes to sharing your space [10].
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
While this breed may sound like they belong in a castle, all they really want to do is stay close and spend time cuddled in your lap [11]. Their attachment to their owners makes a small living space [12] ideal, so they can be near you at all times. Plus, their even-keeled temper and gentle nature makes them even more loveable.
Pugs
The pug life often consists of sedentary activities [13] like cuddling in your lap. Still very silly and playful [14], this breed is not lazy — pugs were bred to be companions, and that's what they do best. It's also what makes their small size and happy, low-maintenance personality ideal for apartment dwellers.
Chow Chows
Though relatively large dogs, chows are known to be serene and adaptable, happily taking to small apartment living [16] . . . especially since some of their favourite activities include napping and relaxing. They're also some of the cleanest dogs [17] according to their owners (thought they do require quite a lot of grooming), and have very little doggy odour — a great quality to have in a small space, amiright?
Coton de Tulears
The bond between Cotons and their people is an extremely tight one [18], so this breed is about to become your new BFF. They're great for small living spaces due to their small size and their need to keep connected with their owners. They do need moderate exercise (otherwise they can become destructive), but as long as they have lots of attention and interesting toys [19], these witty, amusing doggos will be as happy as they make you.
Keeshonds
Bred as barge dogs [20] who acted as guards and companions on Dutch vessels, these boat-friendly pups [21] adapt quite well to apartment living, too. They do need regular exercise, but once that's out of the way they'll be ready to join you on the couch for some TV. As long as you spend time with your Keeshond, they'll be happy as can be.
Yorkshire Terriers
Weighing in at around 7 pounds [22], Yorkies are smart, adventurous, and make great apartment companions due to their endearingly small size. They do need lots of exercise, but with such small bodies, they can be easily exercised indoors — which is where they often feel most comfortable, anyway (especially if you live in a cold or damp area).
French Bulldogs
Adorable Frenchies [23] have become extremely popular in the last few years, and it's easy to see why. They're charming, affectionate [24], and great for small living spaces due to their low activity needs and love for chillin'. They also love to make friends of the human variety, making them the instant popular kid in your busy apartment complex.