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Best Dogs For Apartment Living (2025 Updated)

If you're looking for companionship but live in an apartment, you may wonder if owning a dog is a feasible option. Fortunately, many dogs are well-suited for apartment living as long as their exercise and socialization needs are met. But before you bring home a furry friend, there are factors to consider beyond just breed and size.

First and foremost, think about your lifestyle and schedule. Can you commit to daily walks and playtime? Do you have the time and patience to train your new companion? Will your dog be alone for long stretches of time while you're at work? It's important to choose a dog whose needs align with your availability and lifestyle to ensure a happy home for both of you.

Next, take into account any restrictions from your apartment complex or local laws. Some landlords may have breed or weight restrictions or require extra fees for pets. Make sure to familiarize yourself with your apartment's rules and regulations before bringing home a new furry friend.

If you're still unsure if apartment living is suitable for a canine companion, ask yourself some questions. How will owning a dog enhance your daily life? Are you prepared for the responsibilities of ownership? Taking the time to reflect on these considerations can help guide you in making the best decision for you and your prospective pet. With the right considerations, apartment living can be a great option for a happy and healthy furry friend.

10 Best Dogs For Apartment Living

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for pet owners who want a stylish and comfortable indoor dog crate for their medium-sized dogs.
2
This product is ideal for training puppies or providing incontinence protection for indoor and apartment-living dogs.
3
The product is ideal for dog and small pet potty training and housebreaking, with a reusable 3-layer pad and tray.
4
Ideal for potty training, indoor dogs, apartment living, and dogs with incontinence.
5
The product is ideal for pet owners who want to install a sliding glass pet door in rental homes or apartments.
6
The product is ideal as a dog crate and kennel that doubles as an end table for limited living spaces.
7
This product is ideal for pet owners who want a stylish and functional dog crate that can also serve as an entertainment center.
8
The product is ideal for creating a safe and secure space for pets in the house, doorway, stairs, or any other area.
9
Ideal for pet owners who want a stylish and functional kennel that can house large dogs or multiple medium-sized dogs indoors.
10
The product is ideal for indoor security monitoring with high-quality video, night vision, motion detection, two-way audio, and Alexa compatibility.
This product is ideal for pet owners who want a stylish and comfortable indoor dog crate for their medium-sized dogs.
This product is ideal for training puppies or providing incontinence protection for indoor and apartment-living dogs.
The product is ideal for dog and small pet potty training and housebreaking, with a reusable 3-layer pad and tray.
Ideal for potty training, indoor dogs, apartment living, and dogs with incontinence.
The product is ideal for pet owners who want to install a sliding glass pet door in rental homes or apartments.
The product is ideal as a dog crate and kennel that doubles as an end table for limited living spaces.
This product is ideal for pet owners who want a stylish and functional dog crate that can also serve as an entertainment center.
The product is ideal for creating a safe and secure space for pets in the house, doorway, stairs, or any other area.
Ideal for pet owners who want a stylish and functional kennel that can house large dogs or multiple medium-sized dogs indoors.
The product is ideal for indoor security monitoring with high-quality video, night vision, motion detection, two-way audio, and Alexa compatibility.

1. Unipaws Walnut Dog House With Cushion

The Corner Use Design dog crate is the perfect space-saving solution for those who have limited room. It is a functional corner crate that helps to maximize space while keeping your room tidy and organized. The crate is made with mesh and durable pressed wood, making it perfect for small trained dogs that weigh up to 40lbs. However, please note that the pressed wood is not chew-proof.

This elegant and dual-purpose crate serves as a nice piece of furniture that also functions as a dog crate. It appears as an elegant corner table, making it a great way to multi-use and show your decorative side, making your home stand out. The crate also features a wide top that provides smooth wideness to add your choice of home décor, such as plants, magazines, family picture frames, and night lamps, with a capacity of 180lbs for the top only.

The crate comes with a dense heavyweight cushion that is soft and comfortable for your pet to rest and relax. Your furry friend will love this cozy place to call their own.

Pros

  • Space-saving solution
  • Durable and sturdy
  • Elegant design
  • Multi-use furniture
  • Wide top for home décor
  • Comfortable cushion for pets

Cons

  • – Not chew-proof

2. Top Paw Incontinence Dog Pads – 50pk.

This product is a highly effective solution for pet owners who are looking for a reliable way to manage their pets' elimination needs. With its 12-hour protection, it ensures that pets are comfortable and dry for extended periods of time. It is designed to hold up to 4 cups of liquid, which is ideal for larger pets or those who require frequent changes.

The odor neutralizer component of this product helps to eliminate any unpleasant smells, making it an ideal choice for pet owners who want to maintain a fresh and clean environment. Additionally, it contains a pheromone attractant that helps to encourage pets to use the pad, which can be especially helpful during training periods.

This product is made from high-quality materials that are both durable and comfortable for pets to use. It is also easy to dispose of, making it a convenient solution for pet owners who want to minimize mess and hassle. Overall, this product is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to provide their pet with a comfortable and reliable solution for their elimination needs.

Pros

  • Provides 12-hour protection for pets
  • Can hold up to 4 cups of liquid
  • Odor neutralizer helps to eliminate unpleasant smells
  • Contains a pheromone attractant to encourage pets to use the pad
  • Made from high-quality materials that are both durable and comfortable for pets to use

3. Petmaker Grass Pad For Dog Housebreaking

The Dog Grass Pad with Tray is a perfect solution for pet owners who live in apartments or have limited outdoor space. This artificial turf dog pee pad provides a clean and sanitary place for your pet to relieve themselves inside, on your balcony or patio. It's a reusable alternative to disposable dog training pads and is suitable for small to medium-sized pets.

Potty training your new furry friend just got easier with this dog grass pad. The artificial grass mat helps enforce your pup's training that they should go potty on grass, while also preventing accidents and messes.

This dog grass pad consists of a three-layer system. The artificial dog grass mat sits on top of a secure plastic drainage insert that allows liquid to empty into the durable collection puppy pad holder to avoid messes and spills. This ensures that the grass pad remains clean and dry and makes cleaning up after your pet a breeze.

Cleaning this reusable grass pad for dogs is quick and easy. You can simply rinse the three layers of the dog potty tray with soapy water and clean-up is complete. The materials used for this product are synthetic plastic for the grass mat and hard plastic for the tray and insert. The dimensions of the product are (L) 25” x (W) 20” x (H) 1.25” and it comes in green and black color.

Overall, this dog grass pad with tray is an excellent solution for pet owners who want to provide a clean and convenient place for their pets to relieve themselves. Its simple design, ease of use and easy clean-up make it a must-have for pet owners with limited outdoor space.

Pros

  • Provides a clean and sanitary place for your pet to relieve themselves inside or on your balcony or patio
  • Reusable alternative to disposable dog training pads
  • Suitable for small to medium-sized pets
  • Enforces your pup's training that they should go potty on grass
  • Prevents accidents and messes
  • Consists of a three-layer system to keep the grass pad clean and dry
  • Quick and easy clean-up

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for larger pets

4. Petsafe Sliding Glass Pet Door – Xl

Introducing the energy-efficient sliding glass pet door that is perfect for pet owners who want to keep their pets' comfort in mind without compromising their energy bill. This pet door comes with dual-paned glass, weather stripping, and three insulating pet door flaps to provide a comfortable environment to your pets and help optimize your energy consumption.

This pet door is an ideal option for renters as it is easy to install and detach. You can use the included adhesive strips to install it and take it with you if you and your pet move to another location. The adjustable fit feature enables the pet door to install easily into your existing sliding glass door track, and the height automatically adjusts to ensure a proper fit.

The pet door includes three flexible flaps with a magnetic seal to insulate against outdoor weather conditions. You can lock your door using the included security bar that you can mount between your door frame and the interior sliding panel of your glass door. The pet door comes with two installation options, and you can choose whether to secure it in place with adhesive or the included screws.

This sliding glass pet door is best suited for pets up to 100 pounds, and its door opening measures 10 1/4 in W X 16 1/4 in H. If you have any queries, our pet product experts are available Monday through Saturday to answer your questions and provide you with the best customer care.

Pros

  • Energy-efficient pet door with dual-paned glass and weather stripping
  • Three insulating pet door flaps that help optimize energy consumption
  • Easy to install and detach, perfect for renters
  • Adjustable fit for existing sliding glass door tracks
  • Three flexible flaps with magnetic seals for insulation against outdoor weather conditions
  • Two installation options, adhesive or screws
  • Comes with a security lock to ensure safety

Cons

  • – Not suitable for pets over 100 pounds

5. Sleek Crate: Multi-Functional Dog Furniture

The durable and firm dog kennel furniture is made with heavy duty steel and particle board that ensures stability and sturdiness for long-term use. The metal bars of the medium dog kennel cover the edge of the wood, reducing the space for pets to chew and swallow something dangerous. The furniture-style corner dog crate is a space-saving solution while giving your pets room to grow. It has an industrial appearance that can match any other furniture in your house and is suitable for the living room, bedroom, and office.

The sturdy door of the heavy-duty dog crate is equipped with two locks and locking rings, which will keep your escape artist contained. The high-quality metal hinge prevents noise and won’t interfere with your sleep at night. The wooden table top is made with PB, which can hold up to 140 lb. You can put the TV, plants, night lamps on the dog crate end table. The wood grain pattern of this decorative dog kennel blends in well with home decor.

The overall dimensions of the dog cage furniture are 26.8"W x 52"L x 28.3"H, with an internal height of 26.8". The inner space can bear up to 260lb, while the table top can bear up to 140lb. The product is easy to assemble with detailed instructions. If you are missing accessories or have any questions, please contact the manufacturer for a satisfactory solution in time.

Pros

  • Made with heavy duty steel and particle board for stability and sturdiness
  • Furniture-style corner dog crate provides a space-saving solution
  • Sturdy door equipped with two locks and locking rings
  • Wooden table top can hold up to 140lb
  • Easy to assemble with detailed instructions

6. Double Room Dog Crate Tv Stand

The furniture-style dog crate from this brand is an ideal solution for pet owners who want to provide a comfortable and safe space for their furry friends. Measuring 72"x24"x34", this crate has a spacious interior space of 68"x 21"x25" with a removable divider. The crate is made of waterproof and rust-resistant materials, making it a durable option for pet owners.

The ultra-sturdy wooden dog crate is built to last with thickened wood and wire that can withstand even the most energetic or nervous pups. The metal bars are spaced just 2.3 inches apart, ensuring that pets won't get caught.

This versatile dog furniture is not only functional but also blends in with your home decor. It can easily double as a stylish side table or entertainment center TV stand. The double doors with bars provide easy access and your furry friend will be comfortable and close by your side, no matter where you place it.

Assembling and cleaning the crate is easy. Necessary hardware and detailed instructions are provided, and all parts are labeled for easy assembly. The crate can be wiped clean with a damp cloth for a hygienic environment for your pet.

The indoor dog house furniture has two drawers and a wide top, providing extra storage space for pet supplies. It can also be used to store magazines, family photos, favorite books, lamps, or other decorative items.

This brand offers excellent customer service and guarantees the quality of their product for one year. If there is any issue, customers can contact them for a prompt resolution.

Pros

  • Spacious interior with removable divider
  • Made of waterproof and rust-resistant materials
  • Ultra-sturdy and safe for pets
  • Versatile and blends in with home decor
  • Easy to assemble and clean
  • Extra storage space with two drawers and wide top
  • Excellent customer service and 1-year quality guarantee

7. Extra Wide Freestanding Dog Gate With Door.

This pet gate is perfect for pet owners who need multiple configurations to fit their different needs. It consists of 6 pet panels that are connected and secured together with sturdy 360-degree hinges. You can use it as a pet gate in doorways, full hallways, or any wider areas. You can also connect the panels together to make a playpen, pet exercise pen, or play yard.

The gate includes a lockable door that allows you to move freely from room to room without having to shuffle the entire unit. Plus, its free-standing design requires no wall attachments, making it easy to move and store. The gate comes with two support feet for additional balance.

The pet panels are constructed from a durable solid wood frame and strong metal wire interior, making it perfect for especially large dogs or puppies who like to chew on everything. Despite its durability, the pet gate is attractive and will fit beautifully in any home decor.

The pet gate is extra wide and tall, with open dimensions of 144’’W x 32.08” H x 0.7’’D, and collapsed dimensions of 24” W x 32.08’’ H x 4.25’’D. The pet playpen provides 11.8 square feet of enclosed area, and the gate weighs 34.4 pounds.

Pros

  • Multiple configurations for different needs
  • Lockable door for easy movement
  • Free-standing design for easy movement and storage
  • Durable construction for large dogs or chewy puppies
  • Attractive design fits beautifully in any home decor
  • Extra wide and tall with 11.8 square feet of enclosed area

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for very small pets
  • – May not be suitable for outdoor use

8. Xxl Dog Crate Furniture: Stylish And Spacious!

The large dog crate furniture comes with a divider that can be easily assembled and disassembled, allowing for flexible room configurations. This feature is particularly useful for households with two dogs with different temperaments who need their own space. The crate is made of premium steel bar and P2 level PB, which can withstand even the most mischievous dogs. Its maximum weight capacity is 200lbs, making it suitable for medium to large dogs. A soft and thick cushion is recommended for a more comfortable experience.

The wooden dog crate kennel has a large tabletop that can be used to display your dog's photos or other decorative items. Additionally, it is equipped with 2 drawers that provide extra storage space to keep dog supplies or other items out of sight, making your home more tidy. The stylish design of the dog crate furniture is simple and atmospheric, with a white and walnut color scheme that can fit into any decoration style. It is perfect for use as a TV cabinet, display stand or plant stand.

The dog crate has steel bars to keep your pets contained while allowing them to watch the household activities. Two door latches keep dogs from running around and making a mess. The white sticker can hide the screws for a more seamless and beautiful look. The felt feet pads can increase the friction with the ground, preventing slipping and scratching the floor.

Their customer service team is always available to assist with any questions or concerns about the product.

Pros

  • Flexible room configurations with a divider
  • Made of premium steel bar and P2 level PB, which can withstand even the most mischievous dogs
  • Comes with extra storage space
  • Stylish design that fits into any decoration style
  • Features steel bars and door latches to keep pets contained
  • Felt feet pads prevent slipping and scratching the floor
  • Responsive customer service team

9. Compact Smart Security For Indoor Monitoring (2 Pack)

Secure your home with the 1080P HD indoor plug-in smart security camera that can monitor your home day and night. The Blink Mini camera is equipped with motion detection and two-way audio, allowing you to see, hear, and speak to people and pets in your home from your smartphone. You can customize the motion detection zones to receive alerts on your smartphone whenever motion is detected, ensuring that you can see what matters most.

The Blink Mini camera can also be used as an indoor plug-in chime for Blink Video Doorbell. When someone presses your Video Doorbell, you will hear a real-time alert from your Blink Mini camera. Additionally, you can choose to save and share clips with a free 30-day trial of the Blink Subscription Plan or locally with the Sync Module 2 (sold separately).

Setting up the Blink Mini camera is quick and easy. Simply plug in the camera, connect it to wifi, and follow the instructions in the free Blink Home Monitor app. The Blink Mini camera works with Alexa, so you can pair it with a supported Alexa-enabled device to engage live view, arm and disarm your camera, and more using your voice.

The package includes 2 Blink Mini cameras (white), 2 mounting kits with stands, 2 USB cables, and 2 power adapters, making it easy to set up and monitor multiple areas of your home.

Pros

  • 1080P HD indoor plug-in smart security camera with motion detection and two-way audio
  • Customizable motion detection zones
  • Can be used as an indoor plug-in chime for Blink Video Doorbell
  • Free 30-day trial of the Blink Subscription Plan or locally with the Sync Module 2 (sold separately)
  • Quick and easy setup process
  • Works with Alexa
  • Includes 2 Blink Mini cameras, 2 mounting kits with stands, 2 USB cables, and 2 power adapters

Best Dogs For Apartment Living FAQs

How do you train a dog to live in an apartment?

Training a dog to live in an apartment requires a lot of patience and consistency. The first step is to choose the right breed that is suitable for apartment living. Small breeds like Chihuahuas, Pomeranians or French Bulldogs are great options as they require minimal exercise and can adapt easily to smaller spaces.

Start by creating a designated area for your dog, such as a crate or bed, where they can retreat to when they feel overwhelmed. Consistently use positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise to encourage good behavior.

Establish a daily routine that includes regular exercise and potty breaks to prevent accidents in the apartment. Take your dog on walks outside and provide mental stimulation through toys and games to prevent boredom.

Teach your dog basic obedience commands like "sit," "stay," and "come" to help them understand what is expected of them. Additionally, consider enrolling your dog in obedience classes to improve their behavior and socialization skills.

Lastly, be patient and consistent with your training efforts. It may take time for your dog to adjust to apartment living, but with consistent training and positive reinforcement, your furry friend will learn to thrive in their new home.

How much exercise do dogs that live in apartments need?

Dogs that live in apartments need regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. The amount of exercise required depends on the breed, age, and size of the dog. Generally, adult dogs need at least 30 minutes to an hour of exercise every day, while puppies and high-energy breeds may require more.

Dog owners can provide exercise through a variety of activities, including walks, runs, playing fetch, and even agility training. It's important to note that dogs also need mental stimulation, so incorporating puzzle toys or training sessions into the exercise routine can be beneficial.

Additionally, it's important to take into consideration the living space of the dog. If the apartment is small, owners may need to get creative with indoor exercise options such as playing hide-and-seek, practicing obedience training, or using a treadmill.

Ultimately, providing enough exercise for a dog that lives in an apartment requires commitment and creativity. It's important for owners to prioritize their dog's physical and mental health to ensure a happy and healthy furry companion.

What are some common challenges of having a dog in an apartment?

One of the most common challenges of having a dog in an apartment is the lack of space. Dogs need room to move around and play, and without a backyard or a large living area, they may become bored and restless. Additionally, apartment living can be noisy and crowded, which can stress out some dogs and cause them to bark excessively. Another challenge is the lack of outdoor space for exercise and potty breaks. Owners may need to take their dogs on frequent walks or find a nearby dog park to provide adequate exercise and stimulation. Owners also need to be aware of their dog's behavior and ensure that they are not disturbing neighbors or damaging the apartment. Overall, owning a dog in an apartment requires careful planning and attention to ensure the dog's needs are met in a smaller living space.

What are some tips for creating a dog-friendly apartment environment?

Creating a dog-friendly apartment environment requires some careful consideration and planning to ensure that both you and your furry friend are happy and comfortable. Here are some tips to help you create the perfect dog-friendly space:

1. Choose the right flooring – Dogs can be messy, so it's important to choose flooring that is durable and easy to clean. Hardwood, tile or laminate flooring are great options.

2. Provide plenty of toys and activities – Dogs need mental stimulation and exercise to stay healthy and happy, so be sure to provide plenty of toys and activities for them to play with.

3. Create a comfortable sleeping area – Dogs need a comfortable place to sleep, so provide them with a cozy bed and blankets.

4. Be mindful of your furniture – Dogs can scratch and chew on furniture, so choose durable fabrics and materials that can withstand their wear and tear.

5. Keep the apartment clean – Regular cleaning is important to maintain a healthy and hygienic environment for both you and your dog.

By following these tips, you can create a dog-friendly apartment environment that both you and your furry friend will love.

What breeds of dogs are best suited for apartment living?

There are several dog breeds that are well suited for apartment living. One of the most popular breeds is the Pug. These small dogs are laid-back, easygoing and require minimal exercise, making them a perfect fit for apartment living. Another great breed for apartment dwellers is the French Bulldog. They are small, playful, and low maintenance dogs that are known for their affectionate nature. The Boston Terrier is also a good choice for apartment living. They are small, intelligent, and adaptable dogs that are easy to train and get along well with other pets.

Other dog breeds that are also suitable for apartment living include the Shih Tzu, the Chihuahua, and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. These breeds are all small and low energy, making them ideal for apartment living. It is important to note that regardless of the breed, all dogs require daily exercise and mental stimulation. So, even if you live in an apartment, it is essential to make sure your furry friend gets enough exercise and playtime to keep them happy and healthy.

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