7 top dog breeds perfect for apartment living in Australia.
Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you have to give up on the joy of dog ownership. Whether you’re in a cozy one-bedroom or a spacious urban flat, some dog breeds thrive in small spaces and are happy with moderate exercise. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top seven dog breeds that are perfect for apartment living, covering everything from tiny companion dogs to gentle giants.
1. Moodle (Maltese x Poodle)
The Moodle, or Maltipoo, is a small, hypoallergenic breed that fits perfectly into apartment life. These dogs are intelligent, affectionate, and very adaptable, making them an excellent choice for anyone living in smaller spaces.
Why They’re Great for Apartments
Size: Moodles are small, weighing between 3-8 kg, which makes them easy to accommodate in tight spaces.
Temperament: They are friendly, calm, and love being close to their owners, making them ideal companions for apartment dwellers who spend a lot of time at home.
Exercise Needs: They require moderate exercise, which can be fulfilled with a short daily walk and some indoor play. They also enjoy mentally stimulating toys.
Apartment Tip: Keep your Moodle entertained with interactive toys that challenge their intelligence, such as puzzle games and treat-dispensing toys.
2. Greyhound
Despite their reputation as fast runners, Greyhounds are surprisingly low-energy when they’re not racing. These "40-mile-per-hour couch potatoes" are calm and relaxed, making them a great choice for apartment living.
Why They’re Great for Apartments
Size: Although large, Greyhounds are gentle giants who spend much of their time lounging.
Temperament: They are quiet and easygoing, rarely barking, which is ideal for apartment dwellers who want to avoid disturbing their neighbours.
Exercise Needs: A short daily walk is usually enough to satisfy their exercise requirements. Afterward, they are happy to nap for the rest of the day.
Apartment Tip: Invest in a soft bed for your Greyhound, as their lean bodies need cushioning to relax comfortably.
3. Basenji
Known as the "barkless dog," the Basenji is a medium-sized breed that is ideal for apartment living, especially for those concerned about noise. They are quiet, independent, and remarkably clean.
Why They’re Great for Apartments
Size: Basenjis are compact, weighing around 9-11 kg, making them easy to accommodate in small spaces.
Temperament: They are quiet and tidy, grooming themselves like cats. Their calm nature is ideal for people who want a low-maintenance companion.
Exercise Needs: While Basenjis are active, they don’t need excessive exercise. A daily walk and some playtime indoors are enough to keep them content.
Apartment Tip: Basenjis enjoy mental stimulation, so providing them with puzzle toys or teaching new tricks can keep them entertained indoors.
4. Italian Greyhound
A smaller cousin of the Greyhound, the Italian Greyhound shares many of the same relaxed traits but in a more compact size, making them a perfect fit for apartments.
Why They’re Great for Apartments
Size: Italian Greyhounds weigh between 3-7 kg, which makes them small enough for even the coziest apartments.
Temperament: They are gentle, affectionate, and enjoy being close to their owners. Their quiet and laid-back nature suits apartment living well.
Exercise Needs: Italian Greyhounds only need a short walk each day and a bit of indoor play to stay healthy and happy.
Apartment Tip: These dogs are sensitive to cold weather, so make sure to keep them warm indoors and during walks in winter.
5. Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzers are a sturdy, intelligent breed that adapts well to apartment life. Known for their alert but friendly nature, they are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming and exercise.
Why They’re Great for Apartments
Size: Weighing around 5-8 kg, Miniature Schnauzers are the perfect size for an apartment.
Temperament: They are intelligent, easy to train, and relatively quiet compared to other small breeds, which makes them good neighbours in apartment settings.
Exercise Needs: A short daily walk and some indoor play will keep them fit and happy.
Apartment Tip: Miniature Schnauzers love mental stimulation, so be sure to engage them with toys or training sessions to prevent boredom.
6. Toy Poodle
Toy Poodles are a favourite for apartment dwellers due to their small size, intelligence, and hypoallergenic coat. These dogs are both easy to train and affectionate, making them great companions.
Why They’re Great for Apartments
Size: Toy Poodles are tiny, weighing just 2-4 kg, so they can easily fit into even the smallest of apartments.
Temperament: They are intelligent, obedient, and love to be around people. Poodles are also hypoallergenic, which is a bonus for allergy sufferers.
Exercise Needs: A short walk and some indoor play will keep Toy Poodles happy. They also love learning new tricks, which keeps their minds engaged.
Apartment Tip: Toy Poodles need regular mental stimulation, so introduce puzzle toys or teach them new tricks to keep their sharp minds occupied.
7. Great Dane
Despite their imposing size, Great Danes are calm and gentle, often referred to as "gentle giants." Their relaxed temperament makes them surprisingly suitable for apartment living, provided they have enough outdoor time to stretch their legs.
Why They’re Great for Apartments
Size: Although they are one of the largest breeds, Great Danes are low-energy and don’t need as much space as their size might suggest.
Temperament: They are calm, affectionate, and love to lounge. They are not prone to excessive barking, which is ideal for apartment settings.
Exercise Needs: A couple of short walks a day and some outdoor playtime will keep a Great Dane satisfied.
Apartment Tip: Make sure your Great Dane has a comfortable space to rest indoors, as they love lounging and need a soft spot for their large frames.
Tips for Apartment Living with Dogs
Even with the right breed, living with a dog in an apartment requires some extra care and consideration. Here are a few tips to keep your dog happy and healthy:
Mental Stimulation: Engage your dog with interactive toys, such as puzzle feeders or games of hide-and-seek, to keep them mentally active.
Indoor Exercise: In addition to outdoor walks, you can keep your dog moving by playing fetch down a hallway or setting up an indoor obstacle course using furniture and cushions.
Designated Space: Create a cozy, designated space for your dog to rest and relax, ensuring they feel secure in their apartment environment.
- Regular Walks: Make sure your dog gets out for at least a couple of short walks each day to burn off energy and get some fresh air.
Protect Your Pup in Every Space
Apartment life comes with unique needs, so why not ensure your dog’s health is protected too? Discover Vets Choice pet insurance, designed to support Australian pet owners wherever they call home.