MANY people want to own a dog – but depending on where you live certain breeds can be a nightmare.
A pet expert has revealed the five best and worst dogs you can own if you live in a flat, and it’s important to heed their warning if you don’t want life to be tough.
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With 56 per cent of the global population—about 4.4 billion people—now living in cities, the question of the right breed is key.
Angelo Sorbello, CEO of Pet Sprint, an online resource for pet owners, said: “While many assume all dogs need lots of space, the reality is that some breeds are actually better suited for apartment living than others.
“It’s about finding the right match for both the dog’s needs and the owner’s lifestyle.”
Factors like size, energy levels, and temperament play a significant role in determining how well a dog will feel in your living space.
The best apartment dog is typically smaller in size, has a calm demeanour, and doesn’t require extensive exercise.
Noise levels should also be considered, as some breeds are more prone to barking – a potentially major issue in close-quartered living situations.
With all of that in mind, Angelo has put together a list of five dogs that are perfectly suited to apartment living – and five that really aren’t…
Top 5 dog breeds for apartment living
1. French Bulldog
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“French Bulldogs are the ultimate low-maintenance companions for smaller living spaces,” says Angelo.
These adorable, squishy-faced charmers are the clowns of the dog world.
They’re perfectly content to lounge on your couch all day, making them ideal if you prefer Netflix marathons over actual marathons.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
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“If you’re looking for a loving and gentle companion, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a fantastic choice,” notes the pet expert.
These dogs are the ultimate lap companions, always ready to snuggle and shower you with affection.
Their gentle nature makes them the perfect comfort after a long day.
3. Shih Tzu
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Angelo adds: “Shih Tzus are not only adorable but also very adaptable to smaller homes.”
Shih Tzus are surprisingly low-maintenance and adapt beautifully to smaller living spaces.
They’re happy to be your pint-sized palace guard, alerting you to anything outside while lounging inside with you.
4. Greyhound
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“Despite their racing background, Greyhounds are perfect for more relaxed, indoor environments,” says Sorbello.
Greyhounds are surprisingly lazy and make great companions for smaller homes.
Their calm demeanour means they’re just as happy to sprawl across your couch as they would be in a bigger space.
As a bonus – they require very little grooming!
5. Pug
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Pugs are perfect if you want a dog who’s always up for a snuggle.
With their wrinkly faces and quirky snorts, they’re guaranteed to keep you entertained no matter the size of your home.
These compact comedians love human companionship and are great at adapting to smaller spaces.
The five best and worst dogs for apartments
Top 5 dog breeds for apartment living
- French bulldogs
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
- Shih Tzus
- Greyhounds
- Pugs
Breeds that may struggle in apartments
- Border Collie
- Siberian Husky
- Australian Shepherd
- Beagle
- Jack Russell Terrier
Source: Angelo Sorbello, CEO of Pet Sprint
Breeds that may struggle in apartments
1. Border Collie
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If you’re unable to provide endless physical and mental stimulation, a Border Collie may not be the best fit.
“Border Collies are highly intelligent and require constant stimulation,” says Angelo.
“Without ample space and activities, they can become restless in apartment settings.”
2. Siberian Husky
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Unless you have a lot of space and patience for a chatty dog, a Siberian Husky might not be ideal for apartment living.
“Huskies are natural explorers and vocal dogs,” Angelo explains.
“They do best in environments where they have room to roam, making smaller spaces more difficult for them.”
3. Australian Shepherd
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If you’re not able to meet the needs of an energetic working dog, an Australian Shepherd might find apartment life restrictive.
With their strong herding instinct and endless energy, they’re best suited for wide-open spaces and lots of physical activity.
4. Beagle
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Beagles may be small, but their loud howl and strong scenting instinct can pose challenges in apartment settings.
If you’re not ready to deal with their vocal nature or tendency to get easily distracted by scents, they might not be the best fit for close living quarters.
5. Jack Russell Terrier
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If you’re looking for peace and quiet, a Jack Russell Terrier might be a handful.
Their boundless energy and love for barking can be problematic in an apartment setting.
These little fireballs need plenty of space and exercise to burn off their seemingly endless energy.
Angelo concluded: “While the breeds we’ve listed are often a good fit for apartment living, every dog is unique.
“Regardless of breed – regular exercise, mental stimulation, and training are key to a happy, healthy pet.
“Even lower-energy dogs need daily activity to stay balanced. Temperament and adaptability are also just as important as a dog’s size.
“Finding the right dog for an apartment makes life smoother and strengthens the bond between the pet and owner. When a dog is well-suited to its space, both can truly thrive.”
Should I get a professional dog trainer and how much does it cost?
IF you’re wondering whether to get a professional dog trainer, here’s all you need to know…
Benefits of Hiring a Professional Dog Trainer:
Expertise: Professional trainers have specialised knowledge and experience in handling various breeds and behavioural issues.
Personalised Training Plans: Trainers can tailor their approach to meet the specific needs and temperament of your dog.
Efficiency: A professional can often achieve results more quickly than an inexperienced owner might.
Behavioural Improvement: Addressing issues such as aggression, anxiety, or excessive barking can lead to a more harmonious household.
Socialisation: Trainers can help your dog learn to interact well with other dogs and people.
Cost of Professional Dog Training:
Private Sessions: Typically range from £30 to £100 per hour, depending on the trainer’s experience and location.
Group Classes: Usually cost between £10 and £30 per session, often running as a course over several weeks.
Board and Train Programmes: These intensive programmes, where your dog stays with the trainer, can cost anywhere from £500 to £1,500 per week.
Online Courses: More budget-friendly options, ranging from £50 to £200 for a complete course, though less personalised.
When considering a professional dog trainer, weigh the benefits against the costs to determine what works best for you and your furry friend.
