To the majority of people who live in large cities and urban areas, a large backyard is but a distant dream. Many city dwellers live in high-rise buildings that travel far into the sky. While large apartment buildings may seem like a bad place to be a dog owner, this is not necessarily true. In fact, there are several dog breeds who not only do well in small spaces but even thrive in them. Here are some breeds that are well-suited to apartment living.

Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a small breed that can grow to reach 9–11 inches in height. The breed has its origins in the Canary Islands but was bred in France. Typically it has a white color and a lifespan of about 11 to 16 years.

Boston Terrier

Also known as Boston bull terrier, Boxwood, or Boston bull, this dog has its origins in the US. Boston terriers weigh about 15-25 pounds and grow to a height of about 9-19 inches. They have a smooth, short, and slick coat. Their typical color is black and white with a bridle seal. They have a lifespan of between 11-13 years.

Dachshund

This breed is also known as a sausage dog or wiener dog thanks to their short legs and long body. Their origin is in Germany and they are characterized by disproportionately large front paws, which are suited for digging. They can be categorized into three sizes of standard, miniature, and Kaninchen. The miniature size is suitable for apartment buildings.

Pomeranian

The Pomeranian is another tiny breed with origins in the present-day region Germany and Poland. It can be categorized as a toy dog. Pomeranians weigh about 7 pounds and may reach a height of 11 inches. Pomeranians are lively, playful, and friendly, though they can be aggressive to other dogs.

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus can grow to weigh between 9-16 pounds. The Shih Tzu has its origins in the Tibetan plateau, but it was bred in China. It has large dark eyes with a short muzzle. They also have a long and soft coat and do not exceed 10.5 inches in height.

Miniature Poodle

Miniature Poodles grow to reach 10–15 inches in height, and have single layer unlike other dogs with double coating. Their coat constitutes a curly and dense fur, which hardly sheds. The texture can vary from woolly and coarse to wavy and soft.

Greyhound

Greyhounds love racing and have keen sight. They are slender, tall and graceful. They are very gentle and have a smooth coat. They can attain 40 miles per hour and can reach full speed of 43 miles per hour within 98 feet. They are wonderful pets and are extremely loyal. They enjoy the company of other dogs and extremely loving. Although they are heavy and fast, greyhounds actually make great apartment dogs because they are relatively lazy.

Pug

Pugs have distinctive physical features, which includes a short muzzle, a wrinkly face and a curled tail. The Pug originated in China and was introduced to Europe in the 16th century. Queen Victoria had a passion for the pugs, so the pugs became common among the royal family. They are remarkable companion dogs and highly sociable.

Chihuahua

This breed is named after the Chihuahua State in Mexico. Chihuahuas are among the smallest dog breeds in the world, weighing only 5 pounds with a height of 8 inches.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel traces its origin to the UK and weighs about 15 pounds and grows to about 10 inches in height. It is among the toy dog breeds.