4 Dog Breeds That Aren’t Suited For Apartment Living

Dogs are some of the most amazing animals. As pets, they have a loyal attachment to their family. Unsurprisingly, dogs are the most popular pet in the United States. Having a dog is lovely, but it’s also a lot of work and a big commitment.

If you live in an apartment, taking on a dog can be even more challenging. Without a yard, you’ll need additional commitment to taking your dog outside and ensuring it’s well-behaved, as you don’t want to upset your neighbors or your property management company.

So, even if you’re allowed to have dogs at your rental, some breeds are more likely to cause issues than others. Keep in mind that no dog breed is inherently problematic. Many breeds get a bad reputation, and some aren’t the right fit for some owners or situations.

Still, these dog breeds can be extra tricky for apartment living and might not be the best option.

A Note On Breed Bans

While unfair, some cities and apartment complexes have bans on particular breeds, known as breed-specific legislation. While some of these dogs can make great pets, it’s wise to look into the rules and regulations of your area and rental. You don’t want to adopt a dog that isn’t allowed and then have to rehome it.

Huskies

Huskies are among the most beautiful, regal-looking dog breeds you can find. While none of the breeds on this list are a bad choice, it’s essential to understand their behaviors and needs before adopting any dog.

Huskies are gorgeous, but they are very intelligent and high-energy. Because they were bred for cooler temperatures and being working dogs, they will need a lot of exercise and stimulation. This fact means that a small apartment without a yard is less than ideal for these dogs. 

Many Terrier Breeds

Terriers are often some of the cutest and most interactive dogs. Many of them, especially the smaller breeds, seem to be a great fit for apartments as they don’t need extensive exercise. However, your neighbors might not appreciate them. 

Breeds like Yorkshire terriers and miniature schnauzers make good dogs but are known for barking. Yappy dogs frustrate those around you, and you’ll struggle to control their natural behaviors. Instead, try to find a smaller dog breed not known for barking as much, such as Shihtzu.

St. Bernards

A St. Bernard is an iconic dog breed; they are gorgeous and gentle giants that get along well with kids.

While they make a good pet for many families with more room, they aren’t great for apartments. They are quite large and were bred as working dogs in the Alps. This means they have a lot of extra fur and can be smelly. They also need a lot of exercise, so keeping up with their grooming and exercise needs is challenging.

Chihuahuas

While chihuahuas sometimes get a bad reputation, their small size surprisingly doesn’t make them ideal for shared living spaces. They are known for barking a lot, and if they aren’t trained well, they may act aggressively toward other people and pets. 

However, if you get a chihuahua that is mixed with a more relaxed breed, they can be better suited for living in a rental. 

Dogs And Personality

This list will help you find a dog that suits the needs of your family and living space. However, these are just guidelines. Breed behaviors matter, but the individual personality of a dog and how well it’s trained also make a big difference.