The Best Dog Breeds for Apartment Living: The Surprising Suitability of the Greyhound
Living in an apartment does not mean you have to sacrifice the companionship of a canine friend.
Instead, it's about finding the right breed that matches your living conditions and lifestyle.
Many dogs adapt well to living in smaller spaces if their physical and mental needs are met.
Even surprisingly, larger breeds, like the Greyhound, can make excellent apartment pets.
This article will explore the best dog breeds for apartment living, with a special focus on the Greyhound.
The Bichon Frise: A Bundle of Joy
Small, charming, and cheerfully adaptable, the Bichon Frise is a superb choice for apartment dwellers.
Their petite size, typically around 10-20 pounds, makes them physically well-suited for smaller living spaces.
Bichons are also known for their friendly demeanor and love of human company.
While they do require regular exercise, their needs can be met with a few short walks and playtimes each day. Bichons have a low-shedding coat, but regular grooming is essential to keep their fur in tip-top shape.
The French Bulldog: Small but Sturdy
French Bulldogs, or “Frenchies,” are another breed well-suited for apartment living.
Their compact size and relatively low energy levels make them ideal for smaller homes.
French Bulldogs thrive on human interaction and are known for their affectionate nature.
While they don't require much exercise, they do enjoy a good play session and a daily walk.
Their short coat is easy to maintain, requiring minimal grooming.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: The Regal Companion
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are small, graceful dogs that make excellent apartment companions.
They're quiet, well-mannered, and generally get along well with other pets and people.
Cavaliers love to be with their owners, whether it's going for a walk or curling up on the couch.
They require moderate exercise, but a couple of walks each day will typically suffice. Their long, silky coats do need regular brushing, but they are not considered heavy shedders.
The Shih Tzu: The Ancient Lapdog
Originally bred as companion dogs in Chinese courts, Shih Tzus are comfortable in small spaces and excel at being loving, attentive pets.
They are known for their friendly and outgoing nature, making them popular with families and single apartment dwellers alike.
Shih Tzus need minimal exercise, but they do enjoy a daily walk or playtime.
Their long, luxurious coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting.
The Greyhound: The Gentle Giant
Contrary to popular belief, Greyhounds, known for their scintillating speed and competitive instincts when greyhound racing, make fantastic apartment dogs.
A world away from from the buzz the greyhound betting ring, they are generally calm, quiet, and love to laze around, earning them the nickname “60-kph couch potatoes”.
Though they enjoy running, they don't require as much exercise as one might expect.
A few brisk walks or short sprints in a dog park, or some open space away from the greyhound tracks without the presence of greyhound bookmakers will suffice.
Their short, smooth coat is also low-maintenance.
Greyhounds are sensitive dogs that thrive on human companionship as often illustrated between greyhounds and their handlers on race nights.
They are generally well-behaved indoors and are known for their gentle and affectionate demeanour.
Most greyhounds are clean dogs, and prefer to 'empty out' outdoors well away from their sleeping and living arrangements.
While they might need a bit more space to stretch out due to their size, they adapt surprisingly well to apartment living.
Be aware they will quickly takeover your lounge or bed if allowed.
It's also worth noting that adopting a retired racing Greyhound can be a rewarding experience for both the greyhound and their new owners.
Greyhounds should always be adopted from the official greyhound adoption program in each state in Australia.
Greyhound Adoptions Programs
- New South Wales: Greyhounds As Pets NSW
- Victoria: Greyhound Adoption Program
- Queensland: Greyhound Adoption Program Qld
- South Australia: Greyhounds As Pets SA
- West Australia: Greyhounds As Pets WA
- Tasmania: Greyhound Adoption Program Tas
Choosing the right dog breed for apartment living depends on your lifestyle, the size of your apartment, and the breed's needs.
While small dogs are often considered the default choice for apartment living, don't overlook larger breeds like the Greyhound.
Regardless of the breed, every dog will need regular exercise, mental stimulation, and lots of love.
Remember, a content dog is a quiet and peaceful neighbour.
Research, careful consideration, and a meeting with a potential pet can guide you to the perfect apartment-friendly dog.
Happy dog parenting!