Best Dog Breeds for Apartments: Top 10 Low-Energy Picks (With Photos!)

Last Updated on January 29, 2025 by Dogs Vets

Why Low-Energy Dogs Thrive in Apartments

Over 60% of urban pet owners live in apartments, and high-energy breeds often struggle with confined spaces (AKC). Low-energy dogs require less exercise, adapt to quieter lifestyles, and are less likely to disturb neighbors—making them ideal for city living.

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How We Chose These Breeds

We evaluated breeds based on:

1. Energy Level: Needs ≤ 30 minutes of daily exercise.
2. Size: Small to medium (under 50 lbs).
3. Barking Tendencies: Minimal vocalization.
4. Trainability: Easy to housebreak and manage.
5. Adaptability: Tolerates being alone for 4–6 hours.

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Top 10 Low-Energy Apartment Dogs

1. Bulldog

Why They’re Great:

• Energy Level: Low (20–30 mins/day).
• Temperament: Calm, loyal, and affectionate.
• Barking: Rarely barks.
  Cons: Prone to overheating; avoid hot climates.
  Pro Tip: Use a cooling mat in summer.

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2. Basset Hound

Why They’re Great:

• Energy Level: Low-moderate (short walks suffice).
• Temperament: Gentle, friendly, and good with kids.
• Barking: Occasional howling.
  Cons: Stubborn during training.
  Pro Tip: Use scent games to mentally stimulate them.

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3. Shih Tzu

Why They’re Great:

• Energy Level: Low (playtime indoors works).
• Temperament: Playful yet calm.
• Barking: Minimal.
  Cons: High grooming needs.
  Pro Tip: Trim their coat short for easier maintenance.

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4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Why They’re Great:

• Energy Level: Adaptable (loves snuggles or short walks).
• Temperament: Affectionate and social.
• Barking: Quiet.
  Cons: Separation anxiety if left alone too long.
  Pro Tip: Use a pet camera to check in during work hours.

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5. Greyhound

Why They’re Great:

• Energy Level: “Couch potatoes” (short sprints, long naps).
• Temperament: Gentle and quiet.
• Barking: Rarely.
  Cons: Sensitive to cold; needs a sweater in winter.
  Pro Tip: Adopt a retired racing greyhound—they’re already trained!

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6. French Bulldog

Why They’re Great:

• Energy Level: Low (15–20 mins of play).
• Temperament: Charming and adaptable.
• Barking: Minimal (snorts more than barks).
  Cons: Prone to breathing issues.
  Pro Tip: Avoid stairs and use a harness instead of a collar.

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7. Pekingese

Why They’re Great:

• Energy Level: Very low (lap dog supreme).
• Temperament: Regal and independent.
• Barking: Only when necessary.
  Cons: Stubborn; not eager to please.
  Pro Tip: Start training early with high-value treats.

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8. Pug

Why They’re Great:

• Energy Level: Low (content with short walks).
• Temperament: Silly and loving.
• Barking: Minimal.
  Cons: Overheats easily.
  Pro Tip: Wipe facial folds daily to prevent infections.

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9. Boston Terrier

Why They’re Great:

• Energy Level: Moderate (easy to tire out).
• Temperament: Friendly and intelligent.
• Barking: Rarely.
  Cons: Prone to gas (adjust diet accordingly).
  Pro Tip: Use slow-feeder bowls to reduce bloating.

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10. Chow Chow

Why They’re Great:

• Energy Level: Low (independent and calm).
• Temperament: Aloof but loyal.
• Barking: Only to alert.
  Cons: Requires extensive grooming.
  Pro Tip: Socialize early to prevent aggression.

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Apartment Living Tips for Dog Owners

1. Mental Stimulation: Use puzzle toys (e.g., Outward Hound Nina Ottosson).
2. Noise Control: Train “quiet” commands to minimize barking.
3. Potty Solutions: Indoor grass patches (e.g., Fresh Patch) for high-rise buildings.
4. Vertical Space: Install wall-mounted beds to save floor space.

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FAQs (Targeting Featured Snippets)

Q: What’s the best small dog breed for apartments?
A: French Bulldogs—they’re quiet, low-energy, and adapt well.

Q: Are greyhounds good apartment dogs?
A: Yes! Despite their size, they’re calm and sleep 18 hours a day.

Q: What’s the quietest dog breed?
A: Basenjis (they don’t bark!), but they need more exercise.

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Checklist Before Adopting

• Measure your space to ensure the dog has room to move.
• Check pet policies (weight limits, breed restrictions).
• Budget for pet rent and grooming (if applicable).