44 Best Apartment-Friendly Small Dog Breeds for Cozy Homes
Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you have to give up the joy of owning a dog. In fact, many small dog breeds for apartments are perfectly suited to compact spaces, offering companionship without overwhelming your lifestyle. If you’ve ever wondered which breeds can thrive in limited square footage, this guide gives you the clarity you need.
You’ll discover breeds that are quiet enough for neighbors, adaptable to city living, and loving enough to brighten every corner of your home. From playful personalities to calm cuddle buddies, each dog on this list brings something unique to apartment life. By the end, you’ll not only know which breeds fit your space but also which ones fit your heart.
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1. Pomeranian – The Fluffy Sidekick
- Temperament: Outgoing, affectionate, and protective, these fearless little furballs love being the center of attention.
- Size: Standing about 7 inches tall and weighing up to 10 pounds, they’re a true small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Perfect for condos or apartments, their adaptable nature and compact size make them highly apartment‑friendly.
With a foxlike face and a plumed tail, Poms strut like little celebrities. They thrive on short training sessions and adore being groomed—think brushing as bonding time.
2. Toy Poodle – The Curly-Haired Cutie
- Temperament: Intelligent, playful, and eager to please, these quick learners thrive on companionship and mental stimulation.
- Size: Standing about 10 inches tall and weighing between 4–6 pounds, they’re one of the tiniest small dog breeds.
- Apartment Fit: Highly apartment‑friendly thanks to their low shedding coat, adaptability, and ability to stay content in cozy condos.
Their hypoallergenic coat and sharp mind make Toy Poodles stand-out apartment partners. Puzzle games and trick training keep them happy without needing a big backyard.
3. Miniature Poodle – The Slightly Bigger Curly-Haired Cutie
- Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, and highly trainable, these social companions enjoy both playtime and family bonding.
- Size: Standing about 11–15 inches tall and weighing 10–15 pounds, they’re a small dog breed with a bit more presence.
- Apartment Fit: Apartment‑friendly thanks to their adaptable nature, low shedding coat, and ability to thrive in cozy condos.
The Miniature Poodle brings elegance with a dash of goofiness. Regular grooming and brisk walks keep them polished and content, while their sensitivity makes them great listeners.
Read: Poodles Dog Breed Information
4. Pug – Smooshy-Face Sweetie
- Temperament: Charming, affectionate, and playful, these lovable companions thrive on human attention and family life.
- Size: Standing 10–13 inches tall and weighing 14–18 pounds, they’re a sturdy small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Apartment‑friendly thanks to their low exercise needs, gentle nature, and ability to adapt to cozy condos.
Pugs are comedians with hearts of gold. Keep things cool and take it easy on summer walks—their adorable snorts come with a need for gentle care.
5. Schipperke – The Powerhouse
- Temperament: Bold, energetic, and curious, these spirited companions are always ready for adventure and play. The Schipperke was originally bred for controlling the rat population.
- Size: Standing 10–13 inches tall and weighing 10–16 pounds, they’re a compact yet sturdy small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Apartment‑friendly thanks to their adaptability, lively personality, and ability to thrive in cozy condos when exercised regularly.
Nicknamed “little captain,” the Schipperke packs watchdog spirit in a portable frame. Channel that drive with scent games, clever toys, and structured routines.
6. Shiba Inu – Crazy but Cute
- Temperament: Independent, bold, and spirited, these lively companions are known for their quirky personalities and strong will.
- Size: Standing 13–17 inches tall and weighing 15–24 pounds, they’re a compact yet athletic small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: These small dogs are apartment‑friendly when given daily exercise and mental stimulation, their clean habits and adaptability make them suitable for cozy condos.
Shibas carry samurai swagger with catlike cleanliness. Lean into positive reinforcement and variety—urban hikes, flirt poles, and calm decompression keep their spark shining.
Learn: Shiba Inu Dog Breed Information
7. Shih Tzu – The Perfect Friend
- Temperament: Pronounced, She Zoo. Gentle, affectionate, and loyal, these charming companions love being close to their humans and thrive on attention.
- Size: Standing 9–10 inches tall and weighing 9–16 pounds, they’re a compact small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Apartment‑friendly thanks to their calm demeanor, low exercise needs, and adaptability to cozy condos.
With a flowing coat and a regal presence, Shih Tzus were bred as lap dogs for royalty. Today, they bring that same warmth and companionship to modern homes, happily curling up beside their favorite person.
8. Silky Terrier – Long-Haired Beauty
- Temperament: Confident, spirited, and affectionate, these lively companions balance playfulness with a loyal streak.
- Size: Measuring 9–10 inches tall and weighing around 8–10 pounds, they’re a petite small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: These Silky Terriers are apartment‑friendly due to their adaptable nature, moderate activity level, and ability to stay content in cozy condos.
With their glossy, flowing coat and terrier tenacity, Silkies are both elegant and adventurous. They love brisk walks and interactive play, bringing glamour and spunk to any household.
9. Toy Fox Terrier – Tough and Tiny
- Temperament: Bold, lively, and fearless, these spirited companions combine toughness with an affectionate streak toward their families.
- Size: Standing 8–11 inches tall and weighing 3–7 pounds, they’re a truly petite small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Apartment‑friendly thanks to their compact size, adaptability, and ability to thrive in cozy condos with regular play.
Despite their size, Toy Fox Terriers excel in agility and obedience. They thrive when given challenges, making them ideal for owners who enjoy interactive games and clever tricks.
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10. Yorkshire Terrier – The Baby
- Temperament: Spirited, affectionate, and confident, these tiny Yorkies love attention and carry a big personality.
- Size: Standing 7–8 inches tall and weighing 4–7 pounds, they’re among the smallest small dog breeds.
- Apartment Fit: Apartment‑friendly thanks to their compact size, adaptability, and ability to thrive in cozy condos with regular play.
With their silky coats and fearless attitude, Yorkies are both glamorous and gutsy. They bond closely with their humans and often act like watchdogs despite their toy‑sized stature.
11. Miniature Dachshund – Hot Dog
- Temperament: Clever, brave, and sometimes mischievous, these loyal companions are full of personality and charm.
- Size: Standing 5–7 inches tall and weighing 8–11 pounds, they’re a long-bodied small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Apartment‑friendly thanks to their compact size, adaptability, and ability to thrive in cozy condos with daily walks.
Famous for their “hot dog” silhouette, Mini Dachshunds were bred to hunt burrowing animals. Today, they bring that same determination to games of fetch and digging in blankets.
12. Havanese – Your Newest Family Member
- Temperament: Cheerful, affectionate, and sociable, these devoted companions love being part of the family and bring joy to everyday life.
- Size: Standing 8–11 inches tall and weighing 7–13 pounds, they’re a sturdy yet petite small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Perfect for condos where their playful charm and adaptable nature brighten even the smallest spaces.
With their silky coats and clownish personality, Havanese often become the heart of the household, thriving in close‑knit environments.
This hybrid style keeps the list skimmable while giving each breed a cinematic “mini‑story.”
Read To Learn: 30 Medium Sized Dog Breeds For Apartment
13. Japanese Chin – Sweetface
- Temperament: Gentle, charming, and affectionate, these graceful companions are known for their cat‑like elegance and devotion.
- Size: Standing 8–11 inches tall and weighing 7–11 pounds, they’re a delicate small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Perfect for refined living spaces, their quiet nature and adaptability make them ideal for serene homes.
Once you’ve set sights on these adorable pooches, you’ll not soon forget them. They are unbearably cute and have a sweet personality to go with it. They are another brachycephalic breed so you’ll need to take certain precautions to avoid any medical issues.
14. Lhasa Apso – The Yapper
- Temperament: Alert, confident, and protective, these spirited companions carry a watchdog’s heart in a small frame.
- Size: Measuring 10–11 inches tall and weighing 12–18 pounds, they’re a sturdy small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Well‑suited to apartments where their loyal guarding instincts and moderate exercise needs shine.
The Lhasa is another pup who enjoys being carried around. They have a very calm disposition, and as long as you don’t mind a bit of barking. Originally bred to guard Tibetan monasteries, Lhasa Apsos remain vigilant and vocal. Their flowing coats and bold personalities make them both ornamental and functional guardians in urban homes.
15. Löwchen – Hear Me Roar
- Temperament: Playful, affectionate, and outgoing, these cheerful companions thrive on attention and love to entertain.
- Size: Standing 10–13 inches tall and weighing 10–18 pounds, they’re a sturdy small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Their adaptable spirit makes them a delightful fit for apartments, provided they get daily playtime.
Affectionately known as ‘The Lion Dog’, these beauties make terrific pets, even for those with smaller living arrangements. With a lion‑like trim and a personality to match, the Löwchen turns heads wherever they go. Their bold charm and joyful antics make them unforgettable, while regular grooming keeps their “mane” looking majestic.
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16. Maltese – Not Just Your Grandma’s Dog
- Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, and lively, these devoted companions are known for their sweet and adaptable nature.
- Size: Measuring 7–9 inches tall and weighing 4–7 pounds, they’re one of the tiniest small dog breeds.
- Apartment Fit: Their calm demeanor and petite size make them an effortless fit for stylish city living.
Just like her designer cousin, the Maltipoo, these dogs are sweet-natured and very pretty. They typically prefer to be carried about and are small enough to do so. They do just fine in a smaller home.
17. Manchester Terrier – The Good Boy
- Temperament: Alert, intelligent, and loyal, these sleek companions balance watchdog instincts with affectionate devotion.
- Size: Standing 15–16 inches tall and weighing 12–22 pounds, they’re a lean small dog breed with athletic grace.
- Apartment Fit: Their trainability and moderate exercise needs make them well‑suited to compact homes.
The Manchester Terrier is a good looking boy in his own right. They like to play but do not need much room to do so. They’re sharp, dependable, and full of character—true “good boys” who shine when given both mental challenges and loving attention.
18. Miniature Pinscher – Greased Lightning
- Temperament: Fearless, energetic, and spirited, these little dynamos are known for their bold personalities.
- Size: Standing 10–12 inches tall and weighing 8–12 pounds, they’re a compact small dog breed with sleek lines.
- Apartment Fit: Their lively nature fits apartment life when paired with daily exercise and mental stimulation.
These handsome boys remind us of those old, 1950s greasers. With a stride that looks like they own the pavement, the Miniature Pinscher bursts with confidence and speed. Their electric energy makes them unforgettable companions, but it also means they thrive best with owners who can match their zest for life.
19. Pekingese – Smooshy Face Sweetheart
- Temperament: Loyal, dignified, and affectionate, these regal companions are deeply devoted to their families.
- Size: Measuring 6–9 inches tall and weighing 7–14 pounds, they’re a petite but sturdy small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Their calm demeanor and modest exercise needs make them well‑suited to cozy living spaces.
This smooshy face baby is quite the beauty. With her adorable face, ad long, flowing locks, she is definitely a winner in the looks department. This dog is more likely to be following you around or napping in your lap, so she will do well in smaller homes.
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20. Basenji – The ‘Quiet’ One
- Temperament: Independent, intelligent, and curious, these unique companions are known for their cat‑like behaviors.
- Size: Standing 16–17 inches tall and weighing 20–24 pounds, they’re a lean small dog breed with athletic grace.
- Apartment Fit: This short-haired, smaller breed, are great for apartment living for two main reasons.
Famous for their lack of a bark, the Basenji communicates with expressive yodels and soulful eyes. Their quiet charm and graceful movements make them unforgettable, but their independent streak calls for patient, consistent training.
21. Bichon Frise – A Cloud of a Pup
- Temperament: Cheerful, affectionate, and playful, these fluffy companions thrive on human interaction and love to entertain.
- Size: Standing 9–12 inches tall and weighing 12–18 pounds, they’re a compact small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Their adaptable nature and moderate exercise needs make them a delightful fit for apartment living.
Looking like a puff of cotton drifting through the room, The Bichon Frise charms everyone with its cloud‑like coat and sparkling personality. They’re irresistibly sweet, but their hypoallergenic fur requires regular grooming to keep that heavenly look intact.
That is not to say they don’t love the rest of their humans, they just happen to form a unique bond with a particular one.
22. Boston Terrier – Awesomely Arrogant
- Temperament: Friendly, lively, and confident, these tuxedo‑clad companions balance charm with a dash of stubbornness.
- Size: Measuring 15–17 inches tall and weighing 12–25 pounds, they’re a sturdy small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Their compact build and easygoing nature make them well‑suited to urban homes.
Ah, these little guys are super cute and make fantastic pets. With a tuxedo coat and a swagger to match, the Boston Terrier struts like they own the place. Their playful arrogance is part of the appeal, but as a brachycephalic breed, they need mindful care in hot weather to stay safe.
Read: Boston Terrier Dog Breed Information
23. Brussels Griffon – The Grump Face
- Temperament: Alert, sensitive, and affectionate, these expressive companions wear their emotions on their faces.
- Size: Standing 7–10 inches tall and weighing 8–12 pounds, they’re a petite small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Their small size and strong bond with owners make them ideal for cozy apartments.
With a face that looks perpetually unimpressed, the Brussels Griffon is a living cartoon character. They are smaller than they want to be. Behind the grumpy expression lies a loyal heart, though their brachycephalic features mean they need gentle care and cool environments.
24. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – Bow Down, Peasants
- Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, and regal, these companions thrive on love and attention.
- Size: Measuring 12–13 inches tall and weighing 13–18 pounds, they’re a graceful small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Their adaptable nature and moderate exercise needs make them a natural fit for apartment life.
The Cavalier King Charles was originally bred to be a hunting dog. With flowing ears and soulful eyes, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel carries itself like royalty. They melt hearts with their gentle devotion, but their luxurious coat and predisposition to certain health issues require attentive care.
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25. Chihuahua – The Ankle Biter
- Temperament: Bold, spirited, and fiercely loyal, these tiny companions pack a big personality into a small frame.
- Size: Standing 5–8 inches tall and weighing 2–6 pounds, they’re one of the tiniest small dog breeds.
- Apartment Fit: Their petite size and lively nature make them perfect for compact homes.
Although they might believe themselves to be big, bad, tough guys, Chihuahua’s are one of the smallest dog breeds out there. Eyes full of mischief give the Chihuahua a spark that’s impossible to ignore. This pint‑sized powerhouse may nip at ankles to make their presence known, yet beneath the sass is a fiercely devoted companion who craves closeness and thrives on loyalty.
Read: Chihuahua Dog Breed Information
26. Chinese Crested- Bald is Beautiful
- Temperament: Affectionate, playful, and quirky, these unique companions thrive on close bonds with their families.
- Size: Standing 11–13 inches tall and weighing 8–12 pounds, they’re a delicate small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Their small size and gentle nature make them a perfect fit for cozy homes.
Unique does not describe the Chinese Crested well enough. The Chinese Crested turns heads with its striking hairless look, radiating confidence in every step. Beneath the unusual appearance lies a tender soul that loves snuggling under blankets and basking in the spotlight of human affection.
From the awesome mohawk to their barely-there coat, they are certainly a sight to see. They are incredibly sweet too. Like many small and toy breeds, they usually bond strongly with a favored human.
27. Coton De Tulear – Shaggy Lovebug
- Temperament: Sweet, cheerful, and devoted, these fluffy companions are natural clowns who adore their families.
- Size: Measuring 9–11 inches tall and weighing 8–13 pounds, they’re a compact small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Their adaptable personality and moderate energy make them ideal for apartment living.
Wrapped in a shaggy white coat that feels like cotton, the Coton De Tulear is a walking cuddle. Their goofy antics and unwavering loyalty make them irresistible, turning every day into a love‑filled adventure.
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28. Affenpinscher – Scruffy Cutie Pie
- Temperament: Bold, mischievous, and loyal, these scruffy companions are full of personality and charm.
- Size: Standing 9–11 inches tall and weighing 7–10 pounds, they’re a petite small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Their compact size and playful spirit make them well‑suited to urban homes.
With a face that looks straight out of a cartoon, the Affenpinscher is a scruffy comedian in canine form. Their antics bring endless laughter, and their fierce devotion ensures they’re more than just a funny face.
29. American Eskimo – The Fluffball
- Temperament: Intelligent, lively, and affectionate, these fluffy companions thrive on family life and activity.
- Size: Ranging from 9–19 inches tall and weighing 10–35 pounds, they come in toy, miniature, and standard sizes.
- Apartment Fit: Their adaptable nature makes them suitable for apartments, provided they get regular exercise.
Cloaked in a snowy white coat, the American Eskimo shines like a winter wonder. Their playful energy and dazzling fluff make them unforgettable, though their brilliance also calls for mental stimulation to keep them truly happy. These fluffy dogs are smart and adaptable.
30. Cocker Spaniel – The Companion
- Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, and eager to please, these soulful companions thrive on human connection.
- Size: Standing 13–15 inches tall and weighing 20–30 pounds, they’re a medium‑small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Their adaptable personality and moderate exercise needs make them a good fit for apartment life.
Cocker Spaniels make great family pets and are incredibly intelligent, therefore quite easy to train. Thanks to their sweet and loving nature they can get very close to his humans.
With long, silky ears and eyes that seem to speak, the Cocker Spaniel embodies companionship. They’re tenderhearted and loyal, bringing warmth to every household. While they enjoy outdoor activities, they are just as content to spend a day lounging about. though their coat needs regular care to keep that elegance shining.
31. Whippet – Handsome and Smart
- Temperament: Gentle, intelligent, and affectionate, these sleek companions are known for their calm indoors and bursts of speed outdoors.
- Size: Standing 18–22 inches tall and weighing 25–40 pounds, they’re a slender medium‑small breed.
- Apartment Fit: Their quiet nature and love of lounging make them surprisingly well‑suited to apartment life.
With their inquisitive expressions, the Whippet can emote his feeling very well and is not shy about doing so. They like poetry in motion, turning heads with elegance and grace. They’re tenderhearted at home yet lightning fast on the run, a perfect blend of beauty and brains that makes them unforgettable companions.
Daily walks are a must but otherwise, these guys are super adaptable to any living situation.
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32. Swedish Vallhund – Short Guy with an Ego
- Temperament: Energetic, bold, and loyal, these spirited companions thrive on activity and attention.
- Size: Measuring 11–14 inches tall and weighing 20–35 pounds, they’re a sturdy small herding breed.
- Apartment Fit: Their compact size works well in apartments, provided they get plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
Part of the shepherd family, the Vallhund is not as big as he thinks he is. With a wolfish face and short legs, the Swedish Vallhund struts like they own the world. Their ego is part of their charm—confident, clever, and endlessly entertaining, they bring a big personality into a small package.
They can be a bit on the active side but providing they get enough exercise, can do quite well in a smaller dwelling. They are sweet, like all Shepherds, and very smart.
33. French Bulldog – The European
- Temperament: Playful, affectionate, and easygoing, these charming companions thrive on human connection.
- Size: Standing 11–13 inches tall and weighing 16–28 pounds, they’re a compact small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Their relaxed nature and modest exercise needs make them one of the best apartment dogs.
With bat‑like ears and a lovable grin, the French Bulldog is a true Parisian charmer. They win hearts with their quirky expressions and cuddly devotion, though their brachycephalic build means they need extra care in warm weather.
A smaller version of their English cousin, these little tough guys take their role as family pet very seriously. They are happy to be the King of the household and don’t mind if that household happens to be a smaller palace. They are fiercely protective of their humans and unfailingly loyal.
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34. Basset Hound – Happier Than He Looks
- Temperament: Gentle, loyal, and laid‑back, these soulful companions are known for their patience and devotion.
- Size: Standing 11–15 inches tall and weighing 40–65 pounds, they’re a low‑slung medium breed.
- Apartment Fit: Their calm demeanor and moderate exercise needs make them surprisingly suitable for apartments.
Basset Hounds are one of the most laid back breeds you’ll ever meet. Droopy big brown eyes and long ears may give the Basset Hound a melancholy look, but don’t be fooled. Beneath that solemn face is a cheerful spirit who loves companionship, food, and leisurely strolls more than anything else.
They are one of the laziest dog breeds out there and does not care if he lives in an apartment or a house, so long as his favorite snoozing spot is available.
35. Welsh Corgi – Your Majesty
- Temperament: Bold, affectionate, and intelligent, these herding companions are full of personality and charm.
- Size: Measuring 10–12 inches tall and weighing 22–30 pounds, they’re a sturdy small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Their compact size and adaptable nature make them well‑suited to apartment living with daily activity.
With a royal reputation and a mischievous grin, the Welsh Corgi rules every room they enter. Their short legs and big heart make them unforgettable, a true monarch of companionship who thrives on love and laughter.
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36. Bulldog – The Hidden Teddy Bear
- Temperament: Calm, affectionate, and loyal, Bulldogs are gentle companions with a famously laid‑back nature.
- Size: Standing 14–15 inches tall and weighing 40–50 pounds, they’re a stocky medium breed.
- Apartment Fit: Their relaxed lifestyle and modest exercise needs make them ideal for apartment living.
Behind the wrinkled face and tough build lies a softhearted teddy bear. Bulldogs adore lounging beside their people, offering warmth and devotion, though their brachycephalic features mean they need extra care in hot weather.
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37. Bolognese – He’s Got That Look
- Temperament: Gentle, devoted, and playful, these fluffy companions thrive on close bonds with their families.
- Size: Measuring 10–12 inches tall and weighing 5–9 pounds, they’re a petite small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Their calm demeanor and small size make them perfect for cozy homes.
The Bolognese is very adept at companionship. With a mop of white curls and soulful eyes, the Bolognese has a look that melts hearts instantly. They’re affectionate shadows who follow their humans everywhere, bringing comfort and charm in equal measure.
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38. Maltipoo – The Best of Both Worlds
- Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, and affectionate, Maltipoos combine the best traits of the Maltese and Poodle.
- Size: Typically 8–14 inches tall and weighing 5–20 pounds, they’re a versatile small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Their adaptable personality and trainability make them excellent companions for apartment dwellers.
The Maltipoo, poodles and maltese cross, is an awesome little dog, with a very sweet personality. A Maltipoo is the perfect blend of fluff and smarts. Their cuddly coat and playful spirit make them irresistible, while their Poodle heritage adds intelligence that shines in training and games. They form a special bond with their humans and are small enough to thrive in smaller homes.
39. Papillon – The Princess
- Temperament: Alert, intelligent, and affectionate, these dainty companions are known for their butterfly‑like ears.
- Size: Standing 8–11 inches tall and weighing 4–9 pounds, they’re a petite small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Their small size and lively personality make them well‑suited to apartment life.
With delicate features and elegant ears that fan like wings, the Papillon carries itself like royalty. They’re lively, graceful, and endlessly charming, a true princess who thrives on companionship and admiration.
40. Peekapoo – The Perfect Blend
- Temperament: Loving, playful, and loyal, these hybrids combine the affectionate nature of the Pekingese with the intelligence of the Poodle.
- Size: Typically 8–12 inches tall and weighing 8–20 pounds, they’re a small dog breed with variety in size.
- Apartment Fit: Their adaptable personality and moderate exercise needs make them excellent apartment companions.
The Peekapoo an undeniably cute mix of a Pekingese and a poodle, these small dogs make the perfect apartment companion. Their fluffy coat and affectionate heart make them irresistible, while their clever streak ensures they’re as engaging as they are cuddly.
As with many smaller breeds they are quite vocal, especially when left to their own devices, so you’ll want to keep that in mind.
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41. Rat Terrier – Cuter than His Name Suggests
- Temperament: Energetic, intelligent, and loyal, these spirited companions thrive on activity and family life.
- Size: Standing 10–18 inches tall and weighing 10–25 pounds, they’re a versatile small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Their compact size works well in apartments, provided they get daily exercise and stimulation.
Despite the tough‑sounding name, Rat Terriers are bundles of charm. Their bright eyes and playful energy make them irresistible, and their loyalty ensures they’re far more lovable than their name lets on.
They do very well in a smaller home so long as they get adequate exercise. They love to play, and will probably not take no for an answer.
42. Italian Greyhound – Just as Fast as The Big Boys
- Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, and sensitive, these sleek companions are known for their elegance and speed.
- Size: Measuring 13–15 inches tall and weighing 7–14 pounds, they’re a slender small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Their quiet nature and love of lounging make them excellent for apartment living.
The Italian Greyhound is just a miniature version of a standard. They may be small, but they run with the grace of their larger cousins. Their delicate frame hides a lightning‑fast spirit, while their tender devotion makes them one of the most elegant lap dogs you’ll ever meet.
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43. Yorkipoo – A Mix of Cuteness
- Temperament: Playful, affectionate, and intelligent, these hybrids combine the charm of the Yorkshire Terrier with the smarts of the Poodle.
- Size: Typically 7–15 inches tall and weighing 5–15 pounds, they’re a petite designer breed.
- Apartment Fit: Their adaptable personality and small size make them ideal for apartment dwellers.
An adorable mix of a Yorkshire terrier and a poodle, the Yorkiepoo is one of the most popular of the ‘designer breeds’. Yorkipoo is a cocktail of cuteness—silky hair, bright eyes, and endless energy. They’re clever enough to learn tricks quickly and cuddly enough to melt hearts, making them the perfect blend of brains and beauty.
44. Scottish Terrier – The Noble Gentleman in a Small Suit
- Temperament: Independent, dignified, and loyal, these sturdy companions carry themselves with confidence and charm.
- Size: Standing 10 inches tall and weighing 18–22 pounds, they’re a compact but solid small dog breed.
- Apartment Fit: Their moderate exercise needs and adaptable nature make them suitable for apartment living.
With a wiry coat and a proud stance, the Scottish Terrier looks like a gentleman dressed for the occasion. Their noble demeanor and unwavering loyalty make them unforgettable companions, equal parts watchdog and devoted friend.
FAQ About Apartment-Friendly Small Dog Breeds
Not always. While small dog breeds have shorter legs and lower stamina, many are energetic and need daily walks and playtime. Breeds like the Jack Russell Terrier or Miniature Pinscher often require more activity than larger but calmer dogs. The key is matching exercise needs to the breed, not just size.
Yes, many small dogs are more vocal because they’re alert and protective. Breeds like Chihuahuas or Yorkies may bark at noises in apartments. However, with training and mental stimulation, barking can be managed. Choosing naturally quiet breeds like the Basenji or French Bulldog helps reduce noise issues.
Breeds with high intelligence and eagerness to please are the easiest to train. Poodles, Papillons, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels respond well to positive reinforcement. Their trainability makes them ideal for apartment living, where good manners are essential.
Popular hypoallergenic small dogs include the Bichon Frise, Maltese, Yorkipoo, and Coton de Tulear. These breeds produce less dander and are suitable for allergy‑sensitive owners. Regular grooming and cleaning further reduce allergens in apartments.
Most small dogs can be left alone for 4–6 hours if trained properly. Breeds like the French Bulldog or Whippet are more independent, while Velcro breeds like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel may struggle. Providing toys, safe spaces, and dog walkers helps prevent separation anxiety.
Yes, many small dog breeds are excellent with kids. Boston Terriers, Cocker Spaniels, and Bichon Frises are known for their gentle temperament and adaptability. However, very tiny breeds like Chihuahuas may be fragile around young children, so supervision is important.
Which Small Dog Breed Do You Like Most for Your Apartment?
Choosing the right small dog breed for apartment living can truly transform your daily life. Whether you’re drawn to a fluffy cuddle buddy, a regal companion, or a playful little spark, each pup brings joy, loyalty, and personality that will enrich your home in ways you never imagined.
Remember, when searching for your new pet, always consider shelters and rescues first—there are countless dogs waiting for their forever homes.
Now it’s your turn: Which breed would you welcome into your apartment? Share your choice, your experiences, or even suggest a breed we may have missed. Drop your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation with fellow dog lovers!
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3. Pembroke Welsh Corgi Dog Breed Information
4. 51 Crazy Chihuahua Mixes
5. 42 Pretty Pomeranian Mixes
6. 33 Super Cute Yorkshire Terrier Mixes
