The Five Best Dog Breeds for Apartments and Small Homes

Yorkshire Terrier: The Lovable Lap Dog

This breed is one of the best apartment dogs for several reasons:

1. They’re toy sized.

Standing at only 7 to 8 inches tall and weighing around 7 pounds, these tiny terriers won’t take up much of your coveted space.

2. They’re easy to train.

These pups are highly intelligent, and with proper training you won’t have to worry about accidents inside, uncontrollable barking that bothers your neighbors, or excessive chewing.

3. They’re bouncy but not overly energetic.

While this breed certainly has determination, they don’t require a whole lot of exercise. A quick walk of 15 to 20 minutes in the morning and another at night is enough.

Bonus: Yorkies don’t shed fur or dander.

Havanese: The Cuban Companion

The Havanese breed is another one of the best dog breeds for apartments because:

1. They’re small in stature.

Like Yorkies, Havanese don’t take up much space, weighing no more than 13 pounds.

2. They’re nice and quiet. 

This breed isn’t yappy — something your neighbors will appreciate.

3. They’re easier to train. 

These dogs are highly trainable and eager to please, and they thrive on positive reinforcement. Their personality goes a long way towards successfully potty training, crate training and leash training.

4. They’re active, but not too active.

Havanese are energetic yet don’t need hours of exercise. A daily walk should do the trick.

Pro tip: If you’re always on the go, this might not be the breed for you. These dogs do best with lots of two-legged or four-legged company.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: The Cuddly Confidant

This breed may have royal roots, but they don’t need to live in palatial splendor to thrive. Cavaliers love being close to their owners, so the smaller the space, the better, as far as they’re concerned.

1. They’re petite.

Generally weighing between 13 and 18 pounds, these dogs don’t require much room to roam.

2. They’re smart cookies.

Intelligent and trainable, you can work with this breed to avoid accidents, chewing and scratching.

3. They’re playful, but not too high-energy.

Twenty minutes of exercise each day will keep these pups happy.

One more thing: Like Havanese, Cavaliers love people and don’t do well as kennel dogs. Doggy daycare might be a better option for this social pup.

Basenji: The “Barkless” Breed

Basenjis are slightly larger than others on this list, ranging in weight from 22 to 24 pounds. Regardless, they will find themselves right at home in an apartment.

1. They truly are “barkless.”

Their larynx is uniquely structured and only allows for occasional yodels, which could be fun for your roommates.

2. They’re independent.

These cat-like dogs have low-shed coats, groom themselves and don’t require a ton of attention.

3. Housetraining … with a little encouragement.

Just stay consistent in the beginning — Basenjis can be stubborn, but positive reinforcement and encouragement will help you successfully housetrain them.

4. They’re high-spirited, but also like to lounge.

As long as they get regular exercise, Basenjis will do fine in a smaller space.

One watchout: Left home alone with nothing to do, this breed will find things to get into. If you’re out of the house for long periods each day, this might not be the breed for you.