Top 18 Best Indoor Dogs: Perfect Breeds for Apartment Living

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small, elegant toy breed known for its affectionate nature and friendly demeanor. Originating from the UK, these dogs have a silky, flowing coat and large, expressive eyes. They are excellent companions who thrive on human interaction and get along well with children and other pets. Due to their loving and gentle temperament, they make ideal family pets and therapy best indoor dogs . Regular grooming and moderate exercise are essential to keep them healthy and happy. However, they are prone to certain health issues like heart problems and ear infections, requiring attentive care.

• Size: Small (12-18 pounds)
• Coat: Long, silky, requires regular grooming
• Temperament: Affectionate, gentle, friendly, and good with children and other pets. They are known for their love of cuddling.
• Health Issues: Prone to heart issues, ear infections, and hip dysplasia.
• Exercise Needs: Moderate; enjoy daily walks and playtime.
• Lifespan: 12-15 years

Pug

The Pug is a small, sturdy dog with a distinctive wrinkled face and short, smooth coat. Known for their playful and charming personalities, Pugs are affectionate companions who love to be the center of attention. They originate from China and have a rich history as royal pets. Pugs are adaptable and do well in various living environments, making them suitable for apartment living. They enjoy short walks and playtime but also love lounging and cuddling. Due to their brachycephalic (short-nosed) structure, they are prone to respiratory issues and require a watchful eye on their health and weight.

• Size: Small (14-18 pounds)
• Coat: Short, smooth, and easy to groom.
• Temperament: Charming, mischievous, and loving. They are playful but also enjoy lounging around.
• Health Issues: Prone to respiratory problems, eye issues, and hip dysplasia due to their brachycephalic (short-nosed) structure.
• Exercise Needs: Low to moderate; short daily walks and play sessions.
• Lifespan: 13-15 years

Bulldog

The Bulldog, with its distinctive wrinkled face and muscular build, is a medium-sized best indoor dogs known for its calm and friendly nature. Originating from England, they were initially bred for bull-baiting but have since become beloved family pets. Bulldogs are loyal and courageous, often forming strong bonds with their families. Despite their tough appearance, they are gentle and good with children. They require minimal grooming but are prone to health issues like breathing problems and hip dysplasia due to their body structure. Regular, moderate exercise and a watchful eye on their health are essential for their well-being.

• Size: Medium (40-50 pounds)
• Coat: Short, smooth, requires minimal grooming.
• Temperament: Calm, courageous, and friendly. They are very loyal and good with children.
• Health Issues: Prone to breathing problems, skin infections, and hip dysplasia due to their body structure.
• Exercise Needs: Low to moderate; enjoy daily walks but avoid overexertion.
• Lifespan: 8-10 years

Greyhound

The Greyhound is a large, slender dog celebrated for its incredible speed and graceful appearance. Originating from ancient Egypt, these best indoor dogs have a rich history of hunting and racing. Greyhounds are known for their gentle and friendly nature, making them excellent companions. Despite their athleticism, they are surprisingly low-maintenance and enjoy lounging around the house. They require regular exercise to keep fit but also appreciate their downtime. Greyhounds are generally healthy but can be prone to bloat and joint issues. Their short coat is easy to care for, requiring minimal grooming.

• Size: Large (60-70 pounds)
• Coat: Short, smooth, requires minimal grooming.
• Temperament: Gentle, friendly, and calm. They are good with children and other pets.
• Health Issues: Prone to bloat, joint issues, and dental problems.
• Exercise Needs: High; enjoy running and daily routine but also love to relax.
• Lifespan: 10-14 years

Basset Hound

The Basset Hound is a medium-sized dog with a distinctive long body and short legs. Known for their excellent sense of smell, they were originally bred for hunting small game. Basset Hounds are friendly, loyal, and good with children and other pets, making them great family best indoor dogs . They have a calm demeanor but require regular exercise to prevent obesity. Their short coat is easy to maintain, but their long ears need regular cleaning to avoid infections. Basset Hounds are prone to certain health issues like hip dysplasia and ear problems, requiring attentive care.

• Size: Medium (40-65 pounds)
• Coat: Short, smooth, and easy to groom.
• Temperament: Friendly, loyal, and calm. They are good with children and other pets.
• Health Issues: Prone to ear infections, hip dysplasia, and obesity.
• Exercise Needs: Moderate; enjoy daily walks and playtime but avoid overexertion.
• Lifespan: 10-12 years

Bichon Frisé

The Bichon Frisé is a small, cheerful dog known for its fluffy white coat and playful personality. Originating from the Mediterranean, these best indoor dogs were popular companions of French nobility. Bichons are affectionate, friendly, and good with children and other pets, making them excellent family pets. They require regular grooming to maintain their coat and prevent matting. Bichons are generally healthy but can be prone to allergies and dental issues. They enjoy regular exercise and playtime but are also content to snuggle with their families.

• Size: Small (10-20 pounds)
• Coat: Curly, dense, and requires regular grooming.
• Temperament: Cheerful, playful, and affectionate. They are good with children and other pets.
• Health Issues: Prone to allergies, dental issues, and bladder problems.
• Exercise Needs: Moderate; enjoy daily walks and playtime.
• Lifespan: 12-15 years

Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is a tiny dog with a big personality, known for its alert and lively nature. Originating from Mexico, they are one of the smallest best indoor dogs breeds. Chihuahuas are loyal and affectionate, forming strong bonds with their owners. They can be wary of strangers and other animals, making them good watchdogs. Despite their small size, they require regular exercise and mental stimulation. Chihuahuas are prone to certain health issues like dental problems and heart disease. Their short or long coat is easy to care for with regular grooming.

• Size: Very small (2-6 pounds)
• Coat: Short or long, requires minimal grooming.
• Temperament: Alert, lively, and loyal. They can be wary of strangers.
• Health Issues: Prone to dental problems, heart disease, and patellar luxation.
• Exercise Needs: Low to moderate; enjoy short walks and playtime.
• Lifespan: 14-16 years

French Bulldog

The French Bulldog is a small, sturdy dog known for its distinctive bat-like ears and playful, affectionate nature. Originating from France, they were bred as companion best indoor dogs and have become popular pets. French Bulldogs are friendly, adaptable, and get along well with children and other pets. They require minimal grooming but need regular cleaning of their facial folds. Due to their brachycephalic (short-nosed) structure, they are prone to respiratory issues and require a watchful eye on their health. They enjoy short walks and playtime but also love lounging and cuddling with their families.

• Size: Small (16-28 pounds)
• Coat: Short, smooth, and easy to groom.
• Temperament: Playful, affectionate, and friendly. They are good with children and other pets.
• Health Issues: Prone to respiratory problems, hip dysplasia, and skin infections.
• Exercise Needs: Low to moderate; enjoy short walks and playtime.
• Lifespan: 10-12 years

Maltese

The Maltese is a small, elegant dog known for its long, silky white coat and affectionate nature. Originating from the Mediterranean, these dogs were favored by royalty and aristocrats. Maltese are lively, and playful, and form strong bonds with their owners. They are good with children and other pets but require regular grooming to maintain their coats and prevent matting. Maltese dogs are generally healthy but can be prone to dental issues and luxating patella. They enjoy regular exercise and playtime but are also content to snuggle with their families.

• Size: Small (4-7 pounds)
• Coat: Long, silky, requires regular grooming.
• Temperament: Lively, playful, and affectionate. They are good with children and other pets.
• Health Issues: Prone to dental problems, luxating patella, and tear staining.
• Exercise Needs: Moderate; enjoy daily walks and playtime.
• Lifespan: 12-15 years

Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier, or Yorkie, is a small, energetic best indoor dogs known for its long, silky coat and feisty personality. Originating from England, they were initially bred for catching rats in mills. Yorkies are affectionate and loyal, often forming strong bonds with their owners. They require regular grooming to maintain their coat and prevent matting. Yorkies are generally healthy but can be prone to dental issues and luxating patella. They enjoy regular exercise and playtime but are also content to snuggle with their families.

• Size: Small (4-7 pounds)
• Coat: Long, silky, requires regular grooming.
• Temperament: Energetic, affectionate, and loyal. They are good with children and other pets.
• Health Issues: Prone to dental problems, luxating patella, and tracheal collapse.
• Exercise Needs: Moderate; enjoy daily walks and playtime.
• Lifespan: 13-16 years

Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is a small, sturdy dog known for its long, flowing coat and affectionate nature. Originating from China, they were bred as companion best indoor dogs for royalty. Shih Tzus are friendly, playful, and good with children and other pets. They require regular grooming to maintain their coat and prevent matting. Shih Tzus are generally healthy but can be prone to respiratory issues and eye problems. They enjoy regular exercise and playtime but are also content to snuggle with their families.

• Size: Small (9-16 pounds)
• Coat: Long, flowing, requires regular grooming.
• Temperament: Affectionate, friendly, and playful. They are good with children and other pets.
• Health Issues: Prone to respiratory problems, eye issues, and hip dysplasia.
• Exercise Needs: Moderate; enjoy daily walks and playtime.
• Lifespan: 10-16 years

Bedlington Terrier

The Bedlington Terrier is a small to medium-sized best indoor dogs known for its distinctive lamb-like appearance and energetic nature. Originating from England, they were initially bred for hunting. Bedlington Terriers are affectionate, loyal, and good with children and other pets. They require regular grooming to maintain their coat and prevent matting. Bedlington Terriers are generally healthy but can be prone to liver disease and eye problems. They enjoy regular exercise and playtime but are also content to relax with their families.

• Size: Small to medium (17-23 pounds)
• Coat: Curly, dense, and requires regular grooming.
• Temperament: Energetic, affectionate, and loyal. They are good with children and other pets.
• Health Issues: Prone to liver disease, eye problems, and copper toxicosis.
• Exercise Needs: Moderate; enjoy daily walks and playtime.
• Lifespan: 12-14 years

Poodle

The Poodle is a highly intelligent and versatile best indoor dogs known for its curly coat and elegant appearance. Originating from Germany and standardized in France, Poodles come in three sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. Poodles are affectionate, trainable, and good with children and other pets. They require regular grooming to maintain their coat and prevent matting. Poodles are generally healthy but can be prone to hip dysplasia, eye problems, and Addison’s disease. They enjoy regular exercise and mental stimulation, excelling in various dog sports.

• Size: Varies (Standard: 45-70 pounds, Miniature: 12-20 pounds, Toy: 4-6 pounds)
• Coat: Curly, dense, and requires regular grooming.
• Temperament: Intelligent, trainable, and affectionate. They are good with children and other pets.
• Health Issues: Prone to hip dysplasia, eye problems, and Addison’s disease.
• Exercise Needs: High; enjoy daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation.
• Lifespan: 12-15 years

Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier is a small, sturdy dog known for its tuxedo-like markings and friendly nature. Originating from the United States, they were bred as companion best indoor dogs . Boston Terriers are affectionate, lively, and good with children and other pets. They require minimal grooming but need regular cleaning of their facial folds. Boston Terriers are generally healthy but can be prone to respiratory issues and eye problems due to their brachycephalic (short-nosed) structure. They enjoy regular exercise and playtime but are also content to snuggle with their families.

• Size: Small (10-25 pounds)
• Coat: Short, smooth, and easy to groom.
• Temperament: Friendly, lively, and affectionate. They are good with children and other pets.
• Health Issues: Prone to respiratory problems, eye issues, and allergies.
• Exercise Needs: Moderate; enjoy daily walks and playtime.
• Lifespan: 11-13 years

Beagle

The Beagle is a small to medium-sized best indoor dogs known for its excellent sense of smell and friendly nature. Originating from England, they were bred for hunting small game. Beagles are affectionate, loyal, and good with children and other pets. They require regular grooming to maintain their coat and prevent shedding. Beagles are generally healthy but can be prone to ear infections and hip dysplasia. They enjoy regular exercise and playtime, needing plenty of mental and physical stimulation.

• Size: Small to medium (20-30 pounds)
• Coat: Short, smooth, and easy to groom.
• Temperament: Friendly, loyal, and affectionate. They are good with children and other pets.
• Health Issues: Prone to ear infections, hip dysplasia, and obesity.
• Exercise Needs: High; enjoy daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation.
• Lifespan: 12-15 years

Havanese

The Havanese is a small, cheerful dog known for its silky coat and playful personality. Originating from Cuba, they were bred as companion best indoor dogs . Havanese are affectionate, friendly, and good with children and other pets, making them excellent family pets. They require regular grooming to maintain their coat and prevent matting. Havanese are generally healthy but can be prone to eye problems and patellar luxation. They enjoy regular exercise and playtime but are also content to snuggle with their families.

• Size: Small (7-13 pounds)
• Coat: Silky, long, and requires regular grooming.
• Temperament: Cheerful, playful, and affectionate. They are good with children and other pets.
• Health Issues: Prone to eye problems, patellar luxation, and deafness.
• Exercise Needs: Moderate; enjoy daily walks and playtime.
• Lifespan: 14-16 years

Affenpinscher

The Affenpinscher is a small, sturdy dog known for its monkey-like face and lively personality. Originating from Germany, they were bred to hunt small vermin. Affenpinschers are affectionate, loyal, and good with children and other pets. They require regular grooming to maintain their coat and prevent matting. Affenpinschers are generally healthy but can be prone to hip dysplasia and respiratory issues. They enjoy regular exercise and playtime but are also content to relax with their families.

• Size: Small (6-13 pounds)
• Coat: Rough, wiry, and requires regular grooming.
• Temperament: Lively, affectionate, and loyal. They are good with children and other pets.
• Health Issues: Prone to hip dysplasia, respiratory issues, and patellar luxation.
• Exercise Needs: Moderate; enjoy daily walks and playtime.
• Lifespan: 12-14 years

Dachshund

The Dachshund is a small dog known for its long body and short legs. Originating from Germany, they were bred for hunting small game. Dachshunds are loyal, playful, and good with children and other pets. They come in three coat types: smooth, longhaired, and wirehaired, each requiring different grooming needs. Dachshunds are generally healthy but can be prone to back problems due to their elongated spine. They enjoy regular exercise and playtime but need to avoid excessive jumping and climbing.

• Size: Small (16-32 pounds for standard, 8-11 pounds for miniature)
• Coat: Smooth, longhaired, or wirehaired, requiring different grooming needs.
• Temperament: Loyal, playful, and affectionate. They are good with children and other pets.
• Health Issues: Prone-to-back problems, obesity, and dental issues.
• Exercise Needs: Moderate; enjoy daily walks and playtime but avoid excessive jumping.
• Lifespan: 12-16 years

What is the best breed of dog for inside a house?

The best breed of dog for inside a house includes the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Pug, and French Bulldog, known for their friendly nature and adaptability to best indoor dogs living.

What is the best indoor dogs small dog?

The best indoor dogs small dog is the Chihuahua, which is tiny, loyal, and well-suited for apartment living due to its minimal exercise needs.

What is the easiest dog to take care of?

The Pug is considered one of the easiest dogs to take care of, requiring minimal grooming and moderate exercise, making them perfect for indoor living.

What is the cleanest house best indoor dogs ?

The Bichon Frisé is often regarded as the cleanest house dog due to its hypoallergenic coat, which sheds minimally and requires regular grooming to maintain.

25 Small Hypoallergenic Dogs Breeds