Last Updated: 18/12/2025
Best Apartment Dogs
Living in a smaller space doesn't mean you can't have a canine companion. Discover the best small and large dog breeds for apartments, including low-energy breeds perfect for full-time workers and tips for managing balcony toileting.
Author: Dr Maree Monaghan BVSc (Hons)
Reading Time: 4 minutes - short read
Living in an Australian city often means swapping a big backyard for a cosy apartment, but that doesn't mean your dream of dog ownership has to stay on hold. While some high-energy working breeds might find "flat life" a bit restrictive, many dogs are perfectly happy to trade a lawn for a plush sofa and a couple of daily walks.
Whether you are looking for a pint-sized lap dog or a "couch potato" giant, finding a breed that matches your square footage and your lifestyle is the key to a happy home. Let’s look at the top contenders for apartment living and how to make urban life work for your four-legged friend.
Choosing the best small dogs for apartment living
Bichon Frise
Bichon Frise don't shed so they are a great choice for allergy sufferers and people who don't like everything covered in dog hair. They rarely bark and don't need much exercise - only 20 to 40 minutes a day.
Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound is a toy-sized dog with a big personality! With their sweet, affectionate nature, preference for indoor living and short fine coat, the Italian Greyhound makes an excellent apartment dog.
Shih Tzu
Bred purely as a companion dog for Chinese royalty, the Shih Tzu has no desire to hunt, retrieve or herd and prefers being pampered and cuddled by their adoring owners.
Maltese
With non-shedding fur and small stature, the Maltese is a pamper-loving pooch and perfectly suited to living in small spaces alongside their humans.
Surprising big dog breeds that thrive in apartments
British Bulldog
The British Bulldog has a friendly and playful disposition and loves to be part of a family. Their very low exercise requirement makes them ideal for apartment living and they don't shed much although they do drool a lot!
Shar Pei
The Shar Pei is a quiet and independent dog that does not require a lot of exercise and is naturally clean and easy to housetrain. They can be wary of strangers and intolerant of small children and other animals so they are best suited in situations where their prowess as a guard dog can be appreciated.
Great Dane
If you have a large apartment, the Great Dane is just the dog for you! Despite their imposing size, the Great Dane is a gentle and affectionate dog that can be very patient and playful with children. This gentle giant loves to snuggle and snooze and only needs a daily walk to stretch those extra long legs.
Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is another gentle giant that likes to take life easy and is very tolerant of children. They are extremely loyal and will go to the ends of the earth to protect their family. Bullmastiffs are another low shedding but high drool factor dog.
The best apartment dogs for full-time workers
A big drawback to the traditional 9 - 5 job is that there's a good chance that your dog will be left alone for at least eight hours a day...which some breeds simply cannot handle. Separation anxiety and destructive behaviour may occur in breeds that love human and family interaction. There are breeds that will not be too bothered with the idea of being home alone and you can always keep them entertained with boredom busters and interactive toys.
Shiba Inu
Known as the "cat of the dog world," the Shiba Inu is famously independent and fastidious. They aren't usually "clingy" and are quite happy to spend their day napping or watching the world go by from a window. While they are loyal to their owners, they don't require constant reassurance, making them great for people who aren't home all day.
Whippet
If you love the Greyhound’s "couch potato" nature but want something a bit smaller, the Whippet is your go-to. Like their larger cousins, they are sprinters, not endurance runners. After a quick morning zoomie, they are professionally lazy and will happily snooze on your bed until you return.
Chow Chow
For those who prefer a medium-to-large dog, the Chow Chow is one of the most independent breeds you’ll find. They are naturally aloof and don’t typically suffer from the "velcro dog" syndrome that affects more social breeds. They are calm, quiet, and perfectly content with their own company.
French Bulldog
Frenchies are the ultimate urban dog that doesn't require a lot of exercise or grooming and is not prone to barking. Your Frenchie will happily keep the couch warm for you while you're at work and greet you with the biggest smile and waggly bottom when you return home!
How to train your dog to use a pet loo
A balcony potty is a lifesaver for apartment living. These setups typically feature a layer of real or synthetic grass over a collection tray that catches liquid, while solid waste can be cleared away as usual.
To help your dog transition to their new "outdoor" bathroom, follow these simple steps:
- Prioritise safety: Before setting up, ensure your balcony is secure. Block any gaps where a dog could slip through and remove sharp objects, chemicals, or toxic plants.
- Indoor placement: If you don't have a balcony, or it's not suitable for a pet loo, position the loo indoors in a quiet, low-traffic area. Ensure it is kept away from food and water bowls, as dogs naturally avoid toileting where they eat.
- Scent cues: Help a dog understand the loo's purpose by "seeding" it with their scent. Place a paper towel dabbed with a small amount of their urine under the grass layer, place some of their stools on the grass or use an attractant product.
- Establish a routine: Place your dog on the potty after every meal, nap, and play session.
- Use positive reinforcement: Always reward them with a tasty treat immediately after they successfully use the potty.
- Maintenance is key: Empty the urine tray daily and wash it with warm, soapy water. Give the entire unit a thorough hose-down once or twice a week to keep it fresh and hygienic. Replace the artificial grass as needed.
- Enzymatic cleaning: If accidents happen elsewhere, use an enzymatic cleaner to break down proteins and odours. This prevents the dog from being drawn back to the same spot by lingering scents.
When choosing a potty, consider the size of your dog and how easy the unit is to take apart for cleaning.
Read through our Toilet Training Guide for Dogs for more tips.
FAQs
Choosing a dog for your apartment is all about balancing energy levels with your living space. From the tiny Maltese to the surprisingly lazy Great Dane, there is a perfect match for every household. By considering your work schedule and setting up a dedicated toileting area like a balcony potty, you can ensure your pup thrives in an urban environment.
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History
Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
Thu 18 Dec 2025
Edited by Dr Gillian Hill BVSc (Hons)Dr Maree Monaghan BVSc (Hons)
Veterinarian
Dr. Maree graduated from the University of Queensland in 1990 with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science and has worked in a wide variety of practices around Australia and in Papua New Guinea. She has cared for all creatures great and small and has a particular interest in senior pets and horse nutrition
