Top 10 Apartment-Friendly Dog Breeds for Kiwi Pet Owners

Apartment living and dog ownership can go paw-in-paw – with the right breed. Whether you’re living in a city centre studio or a modern townhouse, choosing a dog that thrives in compact living environments is key. From quiet companions to easily trainable pups, this guide covers the top apartment-friendly dog breeds for New Zealanders who want the best of both bark and balance.

1. French Bulldog

Compact, cuddly, and a real couch potato, the French Bulldog is practically the poster pup for apartment living. They don’t need loads of exercise and are known for being relatively quiet compared to other breeds — perfect for close neighbours.

Set them up for comfort with supportive dog bedding and keep them happy indoors with plush dog toys to prevent boredom.

2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel boasts a relaxed, loving temperament. They're small, friendly, and adapt well to apartment environments. A short daily walk and some snuggle time on the couch is all they ask.

For extra comfort, look into calming essentials, especially helpful if your pup is adjusting to a new home.

3. Chihuahua

When it comes to tiny living, the Chihuahua is king. Their small size makes them ideal for apartments, and they can get most of their exercise indoors. Socialisation and early training go a long way to reduce yappy behaviour.

Reward training with dog treats for training to encourage polite manners in shared spaces like stairwells and lifts.

4. Shih Tzu

Originally bred for palace life, the Shih Tzu is perfectly suited for indoor lounging. They’re calm, don’t bark unnecessarily, and only need short daily walks.

Regular grooming is a must – stock up on dog brushes and shampoo for long-haired coats.

5. Miniature Schnauzer

The Miniature Schnauzer is alert, clever, and relatively quiet indoors, making them ideal for apartment dwellers. They enjoy short bursts of play and stimulation inside the home.

Keep their busy brains occupied with interactive fun like interactive dog toys.

6. Pomeranian

Small but full of spunk, the Pomeranian is a bold little dog with a big personality. They do well in apartments if they’re given regular mental and physical exercise.

They’re also great candidates for calming care if they get a bit too barky when left alone.

7. Boston Terrier

Affectionately known as the "American Gentleman", the Boston Terrier is social, playful, and relatively low-energy indoors. Their compact body and loving personality make them ideal flatmates.

Keep their belly happy with easily digestible options from our range of dog dry food options.

8. Bichon Frise

Fluffy, cheerful, and super affectionate, the Bichon Frise thrives with human companionship. They’re hypoallergenic, which is a bonus for small shared apartments.

Maintain their lovely coats with grooming essentials designed to suit sensitive skin and curly hair.

9. Maltese

Don’t let the silky fur fool you — the Maltese is surprisingly low-maintenance for apartment life. They’re quiet and calm but love attention, making them perfect lap dogs.

They also do well with cosy crates for rest and alone time during the day.

10. Greyhound

Surprise! The Greyhound might be tall, but their temperament is all about snoozing on soft bedding. They’re famously lazy indoors and adapt very well to smaller homes with regular outdoor walks.

Treat them to soft, durable bedding and travel accessories so they always have a comfy lounging spot after their sprints.

What To Consider Before Adopting An Apartment-Sized Pup

• Noise Levels: Some breeds are more vocal than others. Training and enrichment can help keep the peace.
• Exercise Needs: Apartment-friendly doesn’t mean low-energy. Make time for short walks and indoor play.
• Toilet Training: Consider using dog training pads or a balcony potty area during the toilet training phase.
• Routine: Small spaces benefit from routine. Consistent feeding and play times help dogs settle quickly.

Final Thoughts: Apartment Dogs, Big Love

Whether you’re a city slicker or simply short on backyard space, there’s a dog breed out there that’ll thrive in your apartment — and steal your heart. At Petdirect, We Get Pet, and we’re here to help you with everything from dog accessories to the best nutritious dog food for your apartment companion.

Ready to meet your perfect four-legged flatmate? Browse our Puppy Shop or explore our top-rated picks to get started today!