Not Too Big, Not Too Small—These 13 Dogs Are Perfect for Apartment Living
Looking for a medium-sized dog breed that can thrive in your apartment? If you live in the city and are unsure which breeds can adapt to your space, this guide is just what you need. Many medium-sized dogs can do well in apartments as long as they get sufficient mental and physical exercise. In this article, we showcase 13 breeds that are perfect for apartment living. Plus, you’ll hear insights from nine experts, including veterinarians, dog behaviorists, and trainers, who share their top picks for apartment-friendly medium-sized dogs.
German Shepherd Dog
The German Shepherd, originally bred for hunting game, is now widely used for hunting, protection, and various working roles. Known for guarding livestock, protecting children, and assisting police in finding missing people, they excel in guarding homes and families. Despite their working background, they can adapt well to apartment living. People think of GSDs as huge dogs, but they often are only around 60 lbs.
Suggested by James, Founder Of Neurodoglux.com
Basset Hound
When choosing a dog for apartment living, it’s crucial to consider their welfare needs, including their natural desire for outdoor time and at least an hour of daily exercise. While toy breeds are often the best choice for smaller homes, some medium-sized dogs also adapt well to apartment life. The Basset Hound, with its laid-back temperament and low maintenance, is a sensible consideration. However, to prevent them from becoming overweight, they should be given at least an hour of exercise each day.
Linda Simon, Consulting Veterinarian At Five Barks
Whippet
Avoid active or working breeds like the Border Collie or Belgian Shepherd, as they require extensive outdoor access and can become destructive in small homes. Similarly, dogs prone to separation anxiety and barking, such as the Australian Shepherd, may disturb neighbors. A great option for apartment living is the Whippet. Though they run swiftly outdoors, they require minimal exercise and physical stimulation, and their calm, quiet nature makes them well-suited to apartment life.
Linda Simon, Consulting Veterinarian At Five Barks
Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers, originally bred to retrieve ducks from ponds, are now cherished for their friendly, loyal, and loving nature, making them excellent family pets, especially around children. They are smart, trainable, and thrive on attention. However, due to their need for space and exercise, they might not be the best choice for apartment living.
Suggested by James, Founder Of Neurodoglux.com
Belgian Malinois
Any breed can be suitable for apartment living as long as their needs are met. Modern apartments are often larger than homes from a few generations ago, so with sufficient human interaction and exercise, dogs can thrive. For example, I kept a high-energy Belgian Malinois in a studio apartment during grad school by ensuring we ran, trained, and walked for an hour each day. Ultimately, it’s about what you can provide for the dog, not the size of your living space.
Suggested by Dr. Amanda Takiguchi, Veterinarian And Founder of Trending Breeds
Bulldog
The Bulldog is a short-haired breed with a wrinkled face and stout body. Despite their appearance, Bulldogs are gentle and good with children and other pets. Known for their calm demeanor, they make excellent apartment dogs. While they require some exercise, they don’t need a lot of space to run around.
Suggested by Jeff Netzley, Dog Trainer And Creator of Dog Training Near You
Corgi
The Bulldog is a short-haired breed with a wrinkled face and stout body. Despite their appearance, Bulldogs are gentle and good with children and other pets. Known for their calm demeanor, they make excellent apartment dogs. While they require some exercise, they don’t need a lot of space to run around.
Suggested by Alex Romilly, Editor And Pet Expert at MyDogBreed.com
Shar Pei
These beautiful medium-sized dogs with unique wrinkly looks are great apartment guard dogs. Early training and socialization are essential to prevent issues. They thrive with moderate exercise, are independent and loyal, and make excellent companions for apartment living.
Suggested by Paola Cuevas Moreno, Veterinarian, MVZ And Behaviorist with Hepper.com
Beagle
A Beagle makes a great apartment dog, easily recognizable by its small stature, pleasant demeanor, high energy levels, and intelligence. Beagles are social dogs that get along well with everyone they meet. Their even temperament, neither nervous nor overly excited, makes them perfect family pets.
Suggested by Vikesh Ram, Writer At www.animalhowever.com
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are intelligent, affectionate, and playful dogs. They are frequently utilized as guide dogs for the blind and hearing impaired and are known for their compatibility with children and other animals. Labradors are well-suited for apartment living and are ideal for individuals seeking an active yet independent pet.
Suggested by James, Founder Of Neurodoglux.com
Rhodesian Ridgeback
For apartment dwellers preferring a medium-sized dog, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a smart choice. Known for intelligence, loyalty, and affection, they’re easy to train and great with children and other pets. While not frequent barkers, their loud howl can be startling. Apartment living suits them as they don’t need excessive exercise; a few daily walks suffice. However, they shed heavily and have a strong prey drive. Still, they make adorable and loyal companions.
Suggested by Jen Jones, Professional Dog Trainer, Behavior Specialist And Founder Your Dog Advisor
Pitbull
Pitbulls have a complex reputation and may face restrictions in some places. It’s crucial to consider your area’s rules regarding this breed. However, Pitbulls are versatile; some love being couch potatoes while others excel as police or agility dogs. They can also be great nanny dogs, watching over children. Evaluating them individually is key, but I’ve seen many Pitbulls thrive in apartment settings.
Suggested by Lindsay Warren, Veterinary Technician And Pet Blogger at
fromfourlegstotwo.com
Poodle
Poodles, originating from Germany, are small lapdogs known for their gentle and obedient nature. They are highly popular and commonly featured in commercials and movies. Their adaptability makes them well-suited for apartment living as they don’t need much space.
Suggested by James, Founder Of Neurodoglux.com
