These are the best dog breeds if you live in an apartment in the city

City living typically means smaller dwellings and most likely no backyard, especially when you live in an apartment. So, the thought of owning a dog seems like a no-go as being cooped up in a small space with little opportunity to exercise is tantamount to torture.

However, there are certain breeds that can actually thrive in a small apartment in the big city. Here’s a look at the best dog breeds if you live in an apartment.

Best dog breeds for apartment dwellers

If you live in an apartment you will want to avoid owning a Border Collie, Belgian Malinois, Golden Retrievers or other similar dog breeds. That is unless you have a couple hours or more that you can dedicate to them every day so that they can get the necessary intense exercise and stimulation.

You may also be interested in: Vet says he’d never own these 10 dog breeds

Dog breeds that are more amiable to apartment living tend to be on the smaller side but not all. The website ManyPets lists eight breeds that “are perfectly adaptable to apartments and small homes, wanting nothing more than to lie around and bask in the proximity of their similarly sedentary pet parents.”

While the apartment-friendly pouches might not be high-energy breeds and be quite content to just lie around most of the time, they still need to get out and about to exercise, socialize and get some stimulation. Under stimulated dogs can have behavioral issues which is one of the main reasons they end up in shelters.

Additionally, before bringing home a furry friend you should also keep in mind any character traits that could grate on your neighbors, especially barking. With proper training though you should be able to nip that in the bud.

Likewise, keep in mind any allergies that they could cause you or the health issues that can affect certain breeds. It is a good idea to invest in an insurance policy to keep the bills for veterinarian visits from adding up.

Now with the disclaimer out of the way, here are some apartment friendly breeds according to ManyPets:

For those on a tighter budget or who balk at the price of purebreds, or “are looking to do a good deed,” ManyPets recommends considering a mix-breed rescue dog. Talk to your local shelter and explain your situation to find a “lower-maintenance” mutt with “a manageable energy level.”

By adopting a rescue dog you are saving two dogs at the same time, one gets a happy home while a space is opened up for another at the shelter.

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