Top 9 Calm Dog Breeds for Apartment Owners
Apartment living presents unique problems for pet owners.
Space, shared walls, and close living quarters are not compatible with all dog breeds. Often, a calm, low-energy dog is a good choice for apartment living, as they are well-suited to indoor living and don’t bark or become restless as high-energy breeds often do. Fortunately, there are several dog breeds well-suited to apartment living indoors.
What Makes a Dog Apartment-Friendly?
Generally, dogs that adapt well to apartment living have low activity levels and are calm in nature. Breeds that don’t require outdoor space — or constant exercise — are usually pretty happy in small areas. Excessive barking is another giveaway that you might have a tough time with a dog in an apartment. Dogs that bark at everything or are yappy breeds probably won’t suit your needs either. In fact, one of the main factors to consider when choosing a dog for an apartment is temperament, not size. A large and lazy dog makes a great apartment companion, and a small, high-energy dog might not.
The 9 Calm Dog Breeds Ideal for Apartment Living
1. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are sweet, low-energy companions who need only a moderate amount of exercise. They enjoy a good snooze but are not couch potatoes. Not prone to loud barking or overactivity, these dogs are great for city dwellers. Responsible selection makes them the ideal breed for calm apartment living. When sourcing a French Bulldog, you’ll want to start with a reputable breeder like Tomkings Kennel, one of the US’s largest and most reputable French Bulldog breeders.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Calm and affectionate, Cavaliers are indoor dogs that adapt easily to apartment living.
3. Greyhound
Despite their history as racing dogs and slender birds, Greyhounds are relaxed and undemanding, good apartment dogs that sleep half the day away.
4. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is loving, social, and good-natured, and he will be perfectly happy with a lifestyle that largely involves lounging around.
5. Basset Hound
Sweet, kind, and calm, Basset Hounds are good dogs for your apartment that spend most of the day snoozing.
6. Pug
Charming and determined, the Pug is sweet-tempered and was bred to be a companion dog that is at home in an apartment.
7. Maltese
Gentle, playful, and charming, Maltese is a breed that makes a wonderful companion and can adapt to apartment living.
8. Boston Terrier
Friendly and bright, Boston Terriers adapt to your apartment quickly and efficiently.
9. Havanese
Smart and outgoing, the Havanese is a natural companion dog and makes a good apartment pet.
Why Calm Breeds Are a Better Fit for Apartment Owners
Calm breeds tend to bark less, which helps avoid noise complaints. Their lower exercise needs also make daily routines easier for owners with limited access to outdoor areas. These dogs are content relaxing indoors, making them ideal companions for city living.
How Responsible Breeding Influences Temperament
The way a dog is bred has a major impact on its behaviour and health. Well-bred dogs are more predictable in temperament and easier for first-time owners to manage. Responsible breeders focus on stability, health, and socialisation, ensuring dogs are well prepared for home life.
Conclusion
Choosing a calm dog breed can make apartment living far more peaceful and enjoyable. By selecting a breed that matches your space and lifestyle, you create a better environment for both you and your pet, leading to a happier, more harmonious home.
