A small dog is not automatically an easy apartment dog. The individual’s temperament, comfort alone, activity needs and response to neighbours matter as much as floor space. Some larger adults, including suitably matched Greyhounds, can adapt well with regular outings and a comfortable home.
Compare the ten profiles
This is an editorial shortlist, not a ranking or a promise of suitability. Open each profile for exercise, coat care, toilet routines, training and health considerations.
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel ↗
Friendly and often keen to stay close, Cavaliers can fit smaller homes when companionship, daily outings and healthcare are planned properly. Plan for: companionship and health screening.
2. Bichon Frise ↗
Small and sociable, the Bichon offers plenty of personality—but a fluffy coat and a love of company come with real commitments. Plan for: coat maintenance and time alone.
3. Maltese ↗
The Maltese can suit a small home, but its lively nature, coat and daily routines deserve more attention than its size suggests. Plan for: coat care and frequent toilet access.
4. Havanese ↗
The Havanese brings a playful companion temperament to apartment life, provided company, grooming and learning are part of the daily routine. Plan for: company and regular grooming.
5. Greyhound ↗
Many Greyhounds enjoy a quiet home and comfortable naps. The right match depends on the individual dog, safe access and support during the transition to pet life. Plan for: individual adoption match, stairs and other pets.
6. Whippet ↗
Whippets can combine playful outdoor energy with relaxed indoor company, but safe exercise and gradual home-alone training remain essential. Plan for: safe exercise and chase management.
7. Italian Greyhound ↗
Small and affectionate, the Italian Greyhound can fit apartment life when safe handling, warmth, dental care and dependable toilet access are taken seriously. Plan for: safe handling, warmth and dental care.
8. Chihuahua ↗
A Chihuahua can fit a compact home, but good apartment manners come from safe experiences and training—not from being carried everywhere. Plan for: confidence, noise and respectful handling.
9. Shih Tzu ↗
The Shih Tzu’s companion nature can suit apartment living, but grooming and the welfare implications of a short muzzle must be part of the decision. Plan for: grooming, breathing and heat tolerance.
10. Miniature Schnauzer ↗
The Miniature Schnauzer can fit smaller homes with engaged owners, but alertness, activity and coat maintenance need a realistic plan. Plan for: alert barking and daily mental activity.
Five questions before choosing
- Can you provide toilet breaks, including during workdays and wet weather?
- How will you teach calm responses to doors, lifts and nearby dogs?
- Who will help while the dog learns to be comfortable alone?
- Can you provide suitable outings and a cool, quiet place to rest?
- Can you afford routine grooming, dental care and unexpected veterinary treatment?
Meet adult dogs and discuss your actual home with the breeder or adoption organisation. An assessed adult may offer more information about size, coat and temperament than a young puppy, though any dog needs time to adjust. Confirm building arrangements and secure windows and balconies before arrival.
Already on Good Dog Questions
You can also compare our Poodle, Cavoodle and French Bulldog profiles. For French Bulldogs, breathing and heat-related welfare concerns deserve particular attention before choosing.