If you thought living in an apartment meant you can’t own a dog, think again. However, you might need to take a little more time to decide which dog will fit this style of living best, as there are a few important factors to consider. The key ones are proximity to your neighbours and the likelihood that there is less space for your pooch to romp around in.

Here are our top five picks for apartment pups, and what makes them suitable for this style of living.

1. Greyhound

These gentle dogs are incredibly chill and actually sleep a large portion of the day. And, when they’re not sleeping, they don’t need a lot of exercise to keep them in good condition. As a bonus, they’re also not big barkers.

2. Havanese

The Havanese is much smaller than a greyhound; while they may be a bit more energetic, they still make great apartment dogs. One great trait about the Havanese is that they’re not as ‘yappy’ as some other small dogs, so you’re less likely to run foul of your neighbours for having a noisy housemate.

3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

A popular bread in general, the Cavalier King Charles spaniel is another smaller-statured dog that is a great apartment companion. They’re a very affectionate breed who love being close to their owners, so being in a small shared space will be right up their alley. On top of this, they’re an incredibly intelligent and friendly breed, so they’ll easily make friends with other apartment dwellers and impress them with their impeccable manners.

4. Cavoodle

Combining the lovable, affable nature of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the non-shedding coat of the poodle, the Cavoodle is another great option for apartment living - especially if you’re not keen on having hair everywhere all the time. Like Spaniels they’re a cuddly breed, so make sure there’s always space on the couch for them.

5. Boston terrier

If you’re after a smaller dog with shorter hair, then a Boston Terrier might be just what you’re after. Like the other dog breeds mentioned, they don’t need extended amounts of exercise; with a good walk once a day, they’ll be more than happy to be a homebody for the rest of the time. And, with their shorter coat, they don’t require as much grooming as others.

Whatever type of dog you get - whether it’s one from the list above or another of your preference, it’s important you have a good understanding of your pet’s individual exercise and mental stimulation needs. Whether it’s taking them for a walk outside, or playing with them indoors, spending time with and training them is paramount for a positive apartment living experience for you both.