Some dog breeds are the best apartment dogs because they don’t need much space and they aren’t destructive. Others are less popular and less expensive, so you’ll save money if you buy one of these breeds instead of a more popular one like Golden Retrievers or Labradors. Read on to learn about 10 of the cheapest and apartment-friendly dog breeds that are also great pets in general!


1. Brussels Griffon

Brussels-Griffon

The Brussels Griffon is known as a one-person dog. It will cuddle with you all day, but it doesn’t like to be left alone and can get quite grumpy if it has to spend more than a few hours alone. For that reason, they're often kept in pairs so they have someone to keep them company when their human isn't home. As far as apartment dogs go, these guys are okay with being inside most of the time—but don't expect them to stay there without getting some exercise first! They're not going to lie around; they want to go for walks or play fetch.


2. English Bulldog


The English Bulldog is a powerful, short-legged breed that isn’t suited for apartment living. As with many large breeds, bulldogs need plenty of room to roam, exercise, and play. They are very sensitive to temperature extremes; they cannot live outside in hot weather or be left outside when it’s cold. If you can provide an adequately sized fenced yard where your dog can lounge during warm months and get plenty of daily exercises when it’s cool, consider adopting an English Bulldog. This breed is known for its loyalty, gentleness with children, and silly personality.


3. French Bulldog


Best for Smaller Apartments, Good Family Dogs: French bulldogs are known for their sweet personalities. Even though they’re not large dogs, Frenchies love to cuddle and play. Because of their goofy nature, many people find them to be good companion dogs (but make sure you have time to spend with your pooch). Their small size makes them ideal for smaller apartments—and since they don’t require a lot of exercises, you can easily take them on short walks throughout your day. These types of dog breeds are best suited for older adults or those living in smaller spaces. They do well around children, too. Don’t let their small size fool you; they might look like lapdogs but they still need exercise every day to stay healthy.


4. Jack Russell Terrier


The Jack Russell Terrier is a small dog that can weigh anywhere from 8 to 15 pounds. Originally bred for hunting, they have a high prey drive, which means they will chase other animals around. In order to live in an apartment with you, your Jack Russell will need enough space to move around and exercise. They can be very affectionate with their owners; however, since they were originally bred for hunting it is important that their owners take time every day to provide exercise and interaction. If you are short on time or busy, you may want to consider another breed of dog. However, if you do have time available in your schedule daily then a Jack Russell Terrier could make a good companion in an apartment environment.


5. Chihuahua


While not typically a very large dog, they certainly make up for it in attitude. A small dog breed, Chihuahuas love to play but don’t require a lot of space. To own one of these dogs you should live in an apartment or other home with a small yard. The ideal Chihuahua owner lives alone or with just one other person because Chihuahuas tend to be very protective of their owners and require a lot of attention.


6. Pug


If you're living in an apartment but you want a dog to give you unconditional love, a pug is a great choice. These dogs are both affectionate and playful. Pugs are relatively short-haired, making them easy to maintain. Most of them have a lifespan of about 12 years. A big factor for apartment dwellers with little time to take care of their dogs is that pugs have very few health problems so they do not require any special treatment.


7. Pomeranian


If you live in an apartment or small home, you may not have enough space for a larger dog. But that doesn’t mean you should be without a companion. The Pomeranian is one of the best dog breeds for small spaces. They’re also great companions if you work long hours—they are intelligent, alert and can get by on relatively little attention. Do keep in mind that Poms require regular grooming.


8. Yorkshire Terrier


A small, muscular dog with a lot of energy, Yorkshire Terriers were bred to hunt small rodents. They’re trainable but can be independent thinkers, so they need a firm owner. Size: 8 to 9 inches; Weight: 6 to 7 pounds. This breed is not good for people who live in apartments or homes without yards. However, they are fine in an apartment if you take them out every day for walks or runs around your neighborhood.


9. Dachshund


The dachshund is one of several hound dog breeds. It comes in two varieties: standard and miniature. Like most hounds, they have very little sense of smell, but their short legs allow them to easily follow a scent on the ground. This makes them a good choice for city dwellers, who need a dog that can travel around easily in small apartments.


10. Shih Tzu


This is a small dog that can fit in even your smallest apartment. Don’t be fooled by its size, though; Shih Tzus have energy for days, especially when young. This pup makes for a great companion for those who want to keep a dog but don’t have much space. They’re generally quiet and well-behaved, so they won’t cause too much trouble. However, they do shed quite a bit—so if you prefer not to live with dog hair everywhere, you might want to consider another breed. The average life expectancy of a Shih Tzu is 12 years.