Living in the city doesn’t mean you can’t have a dog. In fact, the urban pup population has been growing steadily for years. But that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Laws, housing rules, noise (barking), work hours, and small spaces are just some of the things people have to consider before having a dog in the city. Then there’s the dog itself. While every dog has his own personality, some breeds cope better in big cities than others. If you are thinking about a dog and live in the city, keep these 15 breeds are good with city life.
#1 – Pug
This fun loving dog does well in small spaces, doesn’t need a ton of exercise and loves people, making them a good fit for the city.
#2 – French Bulldog
Like the pug, they tend to be great with other dogs and people, and don’t mind apartment life. Even the high energy ones are pretty easy to “tire out” due to their size, so people who work long hours will still be able to fit in the necessary walks.
#3 – Great Dane
While this big boy may need a bit more space for you to be comfortable, Danes are actually great apartment dogs. They aren’t crazy barkers and while they need exercise, it’s not as much as you might think. And, after that, they have no problem chilling on the couch!
#4 – English Bulldog
This bully breed is great for someone who wants a “tough” looking dog that’s really just a big softy! The bulldog needs minimal exercise (but make sure he still gets walked, an overweight bulldog is full of health issues!) and they don’t bark a lot.
#5 – Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
This sweet spaniel requires exercise, but they are also great lap dogs and friendly to people. They are comfortable in new situations, making them great for city life.
#6 – Boston Terrier
Like the Pug and Frenchie, the Boston is known for being a nice, friendly dog that likes to go places and meet new people – perfect for the city! He requires some exercise, but not an excessive amount.
#7 – Greyhound
While you may think this breed needs a ton of exercise that you don’t have time for, you’re wrong. The Greyhound (including the Italian) is a sprinter, so while they run fast, they don’t require a long exercise session, so you can fit it into your schedule easily. After they’ve had their exercise, they are total couch potatoes. The Italians can be shy and nervous about new things, so be sure to socialize your puppy right so he is used to all the bustle of the big city.
#8 – Havanese
If you don’t mind keeping up with grooming, the Havanese is a great choice. Even though they are small, they are not yappy and may even get enough exercise just running through your house after a ball. They are a happy-go-lucky and generally like people.
#9 – Shih-Tzu
Another dog that requires grooming, the Shih-Tzu is otherwise a perfect apartment or city-dwelling pet. They need a small amount of exercise and are otherwise known for being calm and relatively quiet.
#10 – Chinese Crested
This dog makes a statement and has a trendy haircut perfect for big city life! They do like some exercise, but not a huge amount and do well with new environments. Not fond of the small amount of hair? Opt for the Powderpuff, which has long hair all over his body.
#11 – Pekingese
Like the English Bulldog, the Peke has no problem sleeping most of the day, making him a great apartment dog for someone who works. But, you need to insist on that evening walk or you will end with an overweight Pekingese and lots of health issues.
#12 – Mastiff
Looking for a very big breed to share your apartment with? The Mastiff might be it. As a puppy, he is going to need a lot of exercise, but as they get older, they only need a moderate amount. You have to be okay with drool because it happens with this breed! Also, proper socialization is a must for making sure your Mastiff enjoys going out and about.
#13 – Tibetan Spaniel
This adorable spaniel needs only moderate exercise and it otherwise a total snuggler. They can be a watchdog, but are not know for excessive barking.
#14 – Lhasa Apso
This adaptable breed is fine with a long walk or just playing with toys in the apartment. Otherwise, they are more of an “aloof” breed that doesn’t need constant human companionship (good if you work during the day.) They are known for being watch dogs but overly barky. They may need some socializing before being comfortable going to places and meeting new people.
#15 – Tibetan Terrier
The Tibetan is good for someone who wants a more active dogs, without needing to run for miles and miles. Give him a daily walk or run and something to stimulate his mind, and he is good. He is, first and foremost, a member of the family, so if you work from home and want a constant companion, he’s perfect for that. Training is must for this intelligent terrier, otherwise he will get into trouble.
