Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t own a dog — you just need to choose the right breed. Whether you're in a cosy inner-city unit or a small townhouse, some dogs are better suited to apartment life thanks to their size, temperament, and exercise needs.
In this article, we’ll share 10 of the best dog breeds for apartment living in Australia and what makes them a great fit for compact spaces.
🐶 What Makes a Dog Apartment-Friendly?
- Calm indoor temperament
- Low to moderate exercise needs
- Minimal barking
- Comfortable being alone for a few hours
- Size that suits your living space
🏙️ Top 10 Best Dog Breeds for Apartments
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Friendly, gentle, and low-energy
- Loves cuddles and short walks
- Rarely barks without reason
2. French Bulldog
- Compact, quiet, and low-maintenance
- Doesn’t need much exercise
- Can overheat in hot apartments, so keep them cool
3. Greyhound
- Surprisingly great for apartments
- Low-energy and sleeps most of the day
- Needs a short daily walk and soft bedding
4. Dachshund
- Small but bold
- Enjoys indoor play and short walks
- Can bark, so early training is key
5. Maltese
- Tiny, affectionate, and adaptable
- Minimal shedding
- Benefits from daily brushing and indoor enrichment
6. Shih Tzu
- Bred for indoor life
- Calm and affectionate
- Regular grooming required
7. Pug
- Comical and affectionate
- Low-energy but prone to breathing issues — avoid overheating
- Doesn’t need much space to thrive
8. Boston Terrier
- Playful and compact
- Loves apartment living with people nearby
- Quiet and polite around neighbours
9. Bichon Frise
- Small, cheerful, and hypoallergenic
- Needs brushing, but rarely sheds
- Enjoys playtime in small spaces
10. Chihuahua
- Perfect size for units
- Can be vocal, but easily trained
- Needs gentle handling and a secure home
🏠 Tips for Raising a Dog in an Apartment
- Stick to a walking schedule: At least two outings per day
- Use puzzle toys: Mental stimulation matters in smaller spaces
- Designate a toilet area: Consider pee pads or a balcony patch
- Avoid leaving them alone all day: Dogs need interaction
👩⚕️ When to Speak to a Vet
Even in apartments, dogs can develop:
- Separation anxiety
- Weight gain from inactivity
- Behaviour issues (especially if under-stimulated)
Our vets can help with:
- Behaviour advice
- Breed selection
- Diet plans for indoor dogs
💬 Final Thoughts
You don’t need a big backyard to give a dog a great life. With the right breed and routine, apartment dogs can be just as happy — and sometimes healthier — than their outdoor counterparts.
🐾 Need Help Choosing the Right Dog?
Book a $49 consult with a licensed Australian vet at Dial A Vet. We’ll help you pick the perfect breed for your home and lifestyle.
🧠 FAQs
Q1: Can big dogs live in apartments?
Yes — Greyhounds, for example, are large but very lazy and do well in small spaces.
Q2: What if my apartment doesn’t allow dogs?
Always check your lease and strata laws before adopting a pet.
Q3: How do I stop barking in a small apartment?
Train early and provide mental stimulation. If needed, speak to a vet or trainer.
Q4: Are puppies okay in apartments?
Yes, but be prepared for toilet training and more frequent walks.
Q5: Can I keep a dog on a balcony?
Only under supervision. It’s not a substitute for interaction or walks.
📚 Citations
- Australian Veterinary Association. (2023). Choosing the Right Dog for Your Lifestyle. Retrieved from https://www.ava.com.au
- RSPCA Australia. (2022). Dog Care in Apartments. Retrieved from https://www.rspca.org.au
- PetSure Australia. (2023). Top Apartment Dog Breeds in Australia. Retrieved from https://www.petsure.com.au
