Living in an apartment shouldn’t stop you from getting the dog you’ve always wanted as a companion. It also shouldn’t stop you from getting out and staying active!
If you’re an apartment-dweller, some breeds will work better for your living situation than others. In general, you want calmer, quiet, low-energy breeds that don’t require yards to run around in.
But if you enjoy getting out into the world and exploring, there are still quite a few breeds that have slightly higher energy levels while still being able to adapt comfortably to apartment life. Here are a few of those breeds.
Miniature American Shepherd
These little dogs measure 13 to 18 inches tall and weigh around 20 to 40 pounds. Their unique and beautiful coloration makes them delightful to look at, and their small size makes them perfect for apartment complexes that only accept small dogs.
But don’t let the Mini American Shepherd’s small stature fool you! These are herding dogs through and through. They love being outdoors and staying active, which makes them the perfect companions for joining you on your frequent hiking trips. These pups are also extremely loyal and eager to please, making it a cinch to train them.
American Eskimo Dog
It’s easy to recognize these dogs by their white, fluffy coats, keen and happy expressions, and curious natures. Eskies come in three sizes: Standard which measures 15 to 19 inches tall and weighs 25 to 35 pounds, Miniature which measures 12 to 15 inches tall and weighs 10 to 20 pounds, and Toy which measures 9 to 12 inches tall and weighs around 6 to 10 pounds.
All three sizes make for great apartment dogs, but for the more active folks, the Standard or Miniature Eskies are the best dogs to join in on hikes. Just be mindful that these dogs do tend to be vocal, so you’ll want to take care to train them to be quieter for the sake of your neighbors.
Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier is a little dog, measuring just 10 to 11 inches tall and weighing around 15 to 20 pounds. But their size won’t stop this active, excitable breed from hitting the trails with you!
These are very adaptable dogs, that can easily learn to live comfortably in an apartment. They’re also extremely friendly, and will get along great with your neighbors. This is a fairly high-energy dog that will appreciate being taken on long hikes to get some of that excess energy out!
Border Terrier
Border Terriers are little dogs, about 12 to 15 inches tall and 11.5 to 15.5 pounds. These dogs may look like adorable teddy bears, but they are natural working dogs and love having jobs to do. But don’t worry, these are also extremely adaptable dogs that will fit into your apartment without an issue.
The Border Terrier is small but will have no problem keeping up with you on your hikes. Their wiry coats help protect them from harsh weather, and their active natures mean that they adore exploring. However, you should remember to be watchful while you’re hiking with your Border Terrier. These dogs have strong prey instinct, and won’t hesitate to chase after any small creatures they may see!
Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels generally measure 13.5 to 15.5 inches tall and weigh around 20 to 30 pounds. These are bright and happy dogs, who make wonderful family pets. Their gentle natures and easygoing personalities make them great for apartments.
Cocker Spaniels love being around their humans and will be thrilled when you take them on your next outdoor adventure. They are relatively active dogs that can still settle down enough to be quiet apartment companions. Cockers are also huge people-pleasers, which makes training your Cocker Spaniel an easy process.
Greyhound
These large, beautiful dogs may seem too big to fit into apartments at first glance. Measuring 27 to 30 inches tall and weighing around 60 to 70 pounds, these dogs are used frequently as racing dogs. However, Greyhound owners know that these dogs have two speeds: as fast as physically possible, and couch potato.
Greyhounds make great apartment dogs because they are such easygoing, relaxed dogs. But don’t worry, they also have the energy to be able to join you on all your hiking ventures. You truly get the best of both worlds with Greyhounds.
Basenji
Basenjis measure around 16 to 17 inches tall and weigh 22 to 24 pounds. The Basenji is often referred to as the “barkless dog” because instead of barking, they produce a yodeling sound.
Basenjis are overall quiet dogs, which makes them great for apartment complexes. They are also fairly energetic and will love being outside and joining you for hiking adventures. In fact, you must exercise your Basenji frequently, as these dogs tend to get destructive when they’re bored.
Bernese Mountain Dog
These big, fluffy dogs are naturally affectionate and intelligent. Measuring 23 to 27.5 inches tall and weighing in at around 70 to 115 pounds, their relaxed personalities make them great apartment companions, despite their large size.
That said, the Bernese Mountain Dog is no stranger to a little hard work. Your Berner will easily match your pace on a hike and will have a fantastic time exploring the outdoors with you. This sturdy breed is great for any adventure you want to bring him on.
Manchester Terrier
The Standard Manchester Terrier stands 15 to 16 inches tall and weighs around 12 to 22 pounds. These dogs may look small and slight, but don’t mistake them for being delicate. These are hardworking dogs that are still able to adapt easily to apartment life.
Manchester Terriers are athletic dogs who will need a lot of exercise. Taking them for brisk daily walks or jogs, along with a hike or two a week will be great exercise for these pups. But don’t worry, these dogs settle down easily, and will be happy to snuggle up on the couch with you after your adventure.
Poodle
Poodles come in three sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. Standard Poodles, which measure over 15 inches tall and weigh 60 to 70 pounds, and Miniature Poodles, which measure 10 to 15 inches tall and weigh 10 to 15 pounds, are the best sizes for hiking dogs. Toy Poodles may have a difficult time keeping up because of their very small size.
Poodles are incredibly intelligent animals who also love getting in some physical activity. Both Standards and Miniatures will be able to keep up on hikes and will have a great time exploring the outdoors. They’re also able to live perfectly comfortably in an apartment and are very trainable because of their high levels of intelligence.
