17 Awesome Large Dog Breeds You Can Get For Apartment Friendly Lifestyle
When you think of large dog breeds, the first image that comes to mind might be a giant pup needing endless space to roam. But here’s the truth: size doesn’t always determine suitability for apartment living. What really matters is temperament, exercise needs, and adaptability.
If you’ve ever wondered whether a gentle giant could share your apartment lifestyle, you’re not alone. Many dog lovers hesitate, fearing that a big dog will feel cramped or restless. Yet, countless owners have discovered that certain large breeds are not only apartment‑friendly but also thrive in smaller spaces when given the right care.
In this guide, you’ll explore a curated list of large dog breeds that can comfortably live in apartments. For each breed, you’ll learn about their personality, exercise requirements, challenges, and ideal owner match—so you can make an informed choice that fits your lifestyle. Whether you’re drawn to the calm elegance of a Great Dane, the affectionate loyalty of a Newfoundland, or the quiet dignity of a Chow Chow, this article will help you see that living with a large dog in an apartment is not only possible, but deeply rewarding.
List Of Large Dog Breeds You Can Get For Apartment Friendly
Finding the right large dog breed for apartment living can feel challenging, but several gentle giants adapt surprisingly well to smaller spaces. These breeds are known for their calm temperament, moderate exercise needs, and ability to thrive in an indoor environment as long as they receive regular walks and mental stimulation. With the right care, they can be both loving companions and ideal apartment pets, offering the joy of a big dog without overwhelming your living space.
1. American Staffordshire Terrier: A Lovable Bundle Of Active Muscle
This breed of dog normally stands (19 inches) and weighs (50 to 70 pounds).One‑sentence reassurance that sums up why this large breed can thrive in apartments.
- Temperament: Loyal and affectionate; thrives on human companionship.
- Exercise Needs: Moderate walks and playtime keep them balanced.
- Apartment Suitability: Adaptable with routine exercise and mental stimulation.
- Potential Challenges: Strong build requires consistent training and socialization.
- Ideal Owner Match: Active families or individuals who can provide structure.
Read: American Staffordshire Terrier Dog Breed Information
2. Borzoi: Such An Easy To Live With Apartment Dweller
This breed of dog normally stands (2 feet 8 inches) in height and weighs (55 to 105 pounds).The Borzoi is a graceful and quiet breed that thrives in apartments with moderate exercise.
- Temperament: Calm, quiet, and dignified; enjoys peaceful environments.
- Exercise Needs: Moderate daily walks and occasional sprints.
- Apartment Suitability: Adaptable indoors; prefers lounging when not active.
- Potential Challenges: Independent nature may require patient training.
- Ideal Owner Match: Owners who appreciate a calm, low‑maintenance companion.
3. Bernese Mountain- Dog: A Gentle Giant Of A Furry Kind
This breed of dog normally stands (25 to 27.5 inches) and weighs (80 to 115 pounds).The Bernese Mountain Dog is a loving giant that adapts well to apartment life with daily activity.
- Temperament: Affectionate, loyal, and gentle; great with families.
- Exercise Needs: Moderate activity; enjoys daily walks and play.
- Apartment Suitability: Calm indoors, provided they get regular exercise.
- Potential Challenges: Heavy shedding and grooming needs.
- Ideal Owner Match: Families who can provide companionship and grooming care.
You May Also Know: Bernese Mountain Dog Breed Information
4. Chinese Shar Pei: An Artistic Moving Piece
The Chinese Shar Pei stands (1 foot 8 inches) and weighs (40 to 55 pounds).The Chinese Shar Pei is a distinctive, quiet breed that fits well into apartment living.
- Temperament: Independent, loyal, and protective; reserved with strangers.
- Exercise Needs: Low to moderate; short daily walks are sufficient.
- Apartment Suitability: Quiet and calm indoors; minimal exercise needs.
- Potential Challenges: Prone to skin issues; requires attentive care.
- Ideal Owner Match: Owners seeking a calm, protective companion with low activity needs.
5. Greyhound: For First-time Dog Owners, He Is A Keeper
A greyhound normally stands (2 feet 6 inches) tall and weighs (50 to 85 pounds).The Greyhound is a gentle sprinter who thrives in apartments, spending most of his time relaxing.
- Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, and easygoing; loves lounging.
- Exercise Needs: Short daily walks and occasional runs.
- Apartment Suitability: Surprisingly well-suited; spends most of the day resting.
- Potential Challenges: Sensitive nature; prefers calm environments.
- Ideal Owner Match: First-time owners or those seeking a low-maintenance companion.
Read To Learn: Greyhound Dog Breed Information
6. Poodle: A Fancy Dresser For You To Decorate Your Apartment
This breed stands (2 feet 3 inches) tall and weighs (70 to 85 pounds).The Poodle is a stylish, intelligent breed that adapts easily to apartment living with proper care.
- Temperament: Intelligent, alert, and affectionate; thrives on human interaction.
- Exercise Needs: Moderate daily walks and mental stimulation.
- Apartment Suitability: Highly adaptable; enjoys structured routines indoors.
- Potential Challenges: Requires regular grooming to maintain coat health.
- Ideal Owner Match: Families or individuals who enjoy training and grooming.
Popular Read: Poodle Dog Breed Information
7. Rhodesian Ridgeback: Touch his back and feel the ridge under your hand
This breed stands (2 feet 3 inches) and weighs (70 to 85 pounds).The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a powerful yet loyal breed that can thrive in apartments with proper exercise.
- Temperament: Confident, loyal, and independent; protective of family.
- Exercise Needs: Moderate to high; daily walks and active play are essential.
- Apartment Suitability: Can adapt if well-exercised and trained.
- Potential Challenges: Strong-willed; requires consistent training and socialization.
- Ideal Owner Match: Experienced owners who can provide firm guidance.
8. English Mastiff: A strong leader in your apartment with muscles all over
This breed stands (31 inches) tall and weighs (175 to 190 pounds).The English Mastiff is a massive yet gentle breed that adapts well to apartment life when exercised moderately.
- Temperament: Gentle, calm, and protective; affectionate with family.
- Exercise Needs: Low to moderate; enjoys short walks and relaxation.
- Apartment Suitability: Surprisingly well-suited due to their calm nature.
- Potential Challenges: Large size requires space management and drool control.
- Ideal Owner Match: Families seeking a gentle guardian with minimal activity needs.
9. Great Dane: Greatness Combined With Elegance From Head To Toes
This breed stands (30 to 32 inches) tall and weighs (140 to 175 pounds).The Great Dane is a graceful giant that thrives in apartments thanks to its calm and affectionate nature.
- Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, and friendly; known as “gentle giants.”
- Exercise Needs: Moderate daily walks; enjoys lounging indoors.
- Apartment Suitability: Calm demeanor makes them excellent apartment companions.
- Potential Challenges: Short lifespan and large size require attentive care.
- Ideal Owner Match: Families or individuals who can provide love and space management.
Read: 29 Non-Shedding Dog Breeds
10. Irish Wolfhound: Amiable And Graceful As No Other Hound Can Be
This breed stands (32 inches) tall and can weigh (105 to 120 pounds).The Irish Wolfhound is a towering yet gentle breed that adapts well to apartment living with moderate exercise.
- Temperament: Gentle, patient, and friendly; affectionate with family.
- Exercise Needs: Moderate daily walks; enjoys calm indoor life.
- Apartment Suitability: Adaptable indoors due to their relaxed temperament.
- Potential Challenges: Short lifespan and large size require careful management.
- Ideal Owner Match: Families or individuals seeking a calm, affectionate giant.
11. Newfoundland Dog: Your Handy Babysitter On Duty
Standing (2 feet 5 inches) and weighing in at (100 to 150 pounds), this no dog to be sneezed at in your apartment.The Newfoundland Dog is a nurturing giant that thrives in apartments with consistent care and exercise.
- Temperament: Gentle, patient, and nurturing; excellent with children.
- Exercise Needs: Moderate activity; enjoys swimming and daily walks.
- Apartment Suitability: Calm indoors, provided they get regular exercise.
- Potential Challenges: Heavy shedding and drooling; requires grooming.
- Ideal Owner Match: Families with children who want a gentle, protective companion
12. Saint Bernard: Snow Is No Hurdle For This Life Savior
This breed stands (25.5 to 27.5 inches) tall and weighs (150 to 200 pounds).The Saint Bernard is a nurturing giant that thrives in apartments with consistent care and exercise.
- Temperament: Gentle, patient, and affectionate; famously good with children.
- Exercise Needs: Moderate daily walks; enjoys outdoor play in cooler climates.
- Apartment Suitability: Calm indoors; adapts well if exercised regularly.
- Potential Challenges: Heavy shedding, drooling, and large size management.
- Ideal Owner Match: Families seeking a gentle, protective companion.
You May Also Know: 36 Rare Large Dog Breeds
13. Scottish Deerhound: Royalty From Scotland To Grace Your Apartment
Normally stands (2 feet 8 inches) and weighs (75 to 110 pounds).The Saint Bernard is a nurturing giant that thrives in apartments with consistent care and exercise.
- Temperament: Gentle, patient, and affectionate; famously good with children.
- Exercise Needs: Moderate daily walks; enjoys outdoor play in cooler climates.
- Apartment Suitability: Calm indoors; adapts well if exercised regularly.
- Potential Challenges: Heavy shedding, drooling, and large size management.
- Ideal Owner Match: Families seeking a gentle, protective companion.
14. Afghan Hound: A Touch Of Afghanistan In Your Apartment
Standing (29 inches) and weighing (60 pounds), this is a large dog.The Afghan Hound is a stylish, independent breed that adapts well to apartment living with care.
- Temperament: Independent, elegant, and aloof; affectionate with trusted owners.
- Exercise Needs: Moderate daily walks and occasional sprints.
- Apartment Suitability: Calm indoors; enjoys lounging when not active.
- Potential Challenges: Requires regular grooming for its long coat.
- Ideal Owner Match: Owners who appreciate elegance and can commit to grooming.
15. Clumber Spaniel: Your Short Apartment Dweller
This breed stands 18 to 20 inches and weighs roughly 70 to 85 pounds.The Clumber Spaniel is a short, sturdy breed that thrives in apartments with minimal exercise needs.
- Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, and easygoing; enjoys companionship.
- Exercise Needs: Low to moderate; short daily walks are sufficient.
- Apartment Suitability: Calm and adaptable; thrives in smaller spaces.
- Potential Challenges: Heavy shedding and drooling; requires grooming.
- Ideal Owner Match: Families or individuals seeking a calm, affectionate companion.
Popular Reads: Top 43 Small Dog Breeds For Apartment
16. Dogue de Bordeaux: An Anxious Face Asks For You To Return Quickly From Work.
This breed stands (23.27 inches) tall and weighs (110 pounds). The Dogue de Bordeaux is a loyal guardian that thrives in apartments when given companionship and care.
- Temperament: Loyal, protective, and affectionate; deeply bonded with family.
- Exercise Needs: Moderate daily walks; enjoys calm indoor life.
- Apartment Suitability: Adaptable indoors; thrives on companionship.
- Potential Challenges: Prone to separation anxiety; requires consistent presence.
- Ideal Owner Match: Owners who spend ample time at home.
17. Shiloh Shepherd: A Milder Shepherd In The Making
This new breed of shepherd stands 28 to 30 inches tall and weighs 140 to 160 pounds.The Shiloh Shepherd is a gentle, intelligent breed that adapts well to apartment life with routine care.
- Temperament: Gentle, loyal, and intelligent; calmer than traditional shepherds.
- Exercise Needs: Moderate daily walks and mental stimulation.
- Apartment Suitability: Adaptable indoors with proper training and exercise.
- Potential Challenges: Requires consistent training and socialization.
- Ideal Owner Match: Families or individuals seeking a loyal, trainable companion.
You May Learn: 30 Top Medium Dog Breeds For Apartment
18. Rottweiler: The Confident Guardian Who Loves Family Time
Normally stands 22 to 27 inches tall and weighs 80 to 135 pounds.The Rottweiler is a confident guardian that thrives in apartments with proper training and exercise.
- emperament: Loyal, protective, and affectionate; confident with family.
- Exercise Needs: Moderate daily walks and playtime.
- Apartment Suitability: Calm indoors when exercised properly.
- Potential Challenges: Requires consistent training and socialization.
- Ideal Owner Match: Experienced owners seeking a protective companion.
19. Chow Chow: The Quiet Lion-Like Companion For Small Spaces
Normally stands 17 to 20 inches tall and weighs 45 to 70 pounds.The Chow Chow is a lion-like, independent breed that adapts well to apartment living with minimal exercise.
- Temperament: Independent, calm, and reserved; loyal to family.
- Exercise Needs: Low to moderate; short daily walks are sufficient.
- Apartment Suitability: Quiet and calm indoors; well-suited for smaller spaces.
- Potential Challenges: Requires grooming and careful socialization.
- Ideal Owner Match: Owners seeking a quiet, low-energy companion.
20. Akita: The Devoted Guardian With A Calm Demeanor
Normally stands 24 to 28 inches tall and weighs 70 to 130 pounds.The Akita is a devoted guardian that thrives in apartments when given structure and companionship.
- Temperament: Loyal, dignified, and protective; deeply bonded with family.
- Exercise Needs: Moderate daily walks and mental stimulation.
- Apartment Suitability: Calm indoors; adapts well with consistent routines.
- Potential Challenges: Strong-willed; requires firm training and socialization.
- Ideal Owner Match: Experienced owners seeking a loyal, protective companion.
21. Alaskan Malamute: The Strong Worker Who Can Adapt Indoors
Normally stands 23 to 25 inches tall and weighs 75 to 100 pounds.The Alaskan Malamute is a powerful worker that adapts to apartment life with proper exercise.
- Temperament: Affectionate, loyal, and strong; thrives on human interaction.
- Exercise Needs: High; requires daily walks and active play.
- Apartment Suitability: Can adapt indoors if well-exercised and mentally stimulated.
- Potential Challenges: Strong prey drive and shedding; needs consistent training.
- Ideal Owner Match: Active owners who can provide exercise and companionship.
22. Labrador Retriever: The Friendly Giant Who Fits Anywhere
Normally stands 21 to 24 inches tall and weighs 55 to 80 pounds.The Labrador Retriever is a versatile, affectionate breed that thrives in apartments with daily exercise.
- Temperament: Friendly, outgoing, and affectionate; great with families.
- Exercise Needs: Moderate to high; daily walks and playtime are essential.
- Apartment Suitability: Adaptable indoors; thrives with consistent activity.
- Potential Challenges: High energy; requires training to prevent destructive behavior.
- Ideal Owner Match: Families or individuals seeking a friendly, adaptable companion.
23. Weimaraner: The Sleek Athlete With A Loving Nature
Normally stands 23 to 27 inches tall and weighs 55 to 90 pounds.The Weimaraner is a sleek, affectionate athlete that thrives in apartments with ample exercise.
- Temperament: Energetic, intelligent, and affectionate; deeply bonded with owners.
- Exercise Needs: High; requires daily walks, runs, and mental stimulation.
- Apartment Suitability: Adaptable indoors if given sufficient exercise.
- Potential Challenges: Prone to separation anxiety; needs consistent companionship.
- Ideal Owner Match: Active owners who enjoy outdoor activities and training.
Frequently Asked Questions About Large Dog Breeds in Apartments
Yes. While many assume large dogs need vast space, breeds with a calm temperament and moderate exercise needs often adapt well to apartment living. Gentle giants like the Great Dane, Mastiff, and Greyhound are prime examples.
The key factors are temperament, exercise requirements, noise levels, and adaptability. A dog that is calm indoors, enjoys short walks, and doesn’t bark excessively is more suitable than one that is highly energetic or vocal.
It depends on the breed. Chow Chows and Shar Peis are naturally quiet, while breeds like Boxers or Labradors may bark more if not trained. Proper socialization and training help minimize noise issues.
Yes, many large breeds are known as gentle giants. Breeds like the Newfoundland, Saint Bernard, and Bernese Mountain Dog are famously patient and affectionate with children, provided they are trained and supervised.
While it depends on lifestyle, the Greyhound is often considered the most apartment‑friendly large breed. Despite their athletic build, they are quiet, gentle, and spend most of their time lounging indoors.
Conclusion: Living Large in Small Spaces
Choosing a large dog for apartment living may feel like a challenge, but as we’ve seen, size isn’t the only factor that matters. Temperament, exercise needs, and adaptability play a far bigger role in determining whether a breed can thrive in smaller spaces. From gentle giants like the Great Dane and Saint Bernard to calm companions such as the Greyhound or Chow Chow, many large breeds are surprisingly well‑suited for apartment life.
The key is to match your lifestyle with the right breed. If you’re active, a Weimaraner or Labrador Retriever will keep pace with your energy. If you prefer a calmer home, breeds like the Mastiff or Newfoundland will happily lounge by your side. With proper training, consistent routines, and daily exercise, even the biggest dogs can become the most comfortable apartment dwellers.
Ultimately, apartment living with a large dog is not only possible—it can be deeply rewarding. These breeds bring loyalty, affection, and companionship that fill your home with warmth, proving that love and temperament matter more than square footage.
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