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The 15 Best Dog Breeds for Apartment Dwellers

Not all dogs are well-suited to apartment living. These adorable pups have what it takes to make the most of small spaces.

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Photo: Getty Images; mpikula

Chihuahua

Sassy and loyal Chihuahuas have lit up the big screen in films like Beverly Hills Chihuahua and Legally Blonde. These pint-sized pups prefer to be close to their owners and do well in small spaces, like apartments. They also don’t need a lot of exercise, but if you go out in the cold, keep him warm with a sweater. Chihuahuas can lose body heat quickly. Inside, you may find that this pup’s favorite spot is on your lap, settled in for a Netflix marathon.

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French Bulldog

French bulldogs are well-mannered and affectionate. They love to play and spend quality time with their humans, making them fantastic companion dogs. However, they also value their beauty sleep (Frenchies can sleep 12 to 14 hours a day). These pups are compact and don’t require a lot of activity. French bulldogs also don’t bark much - at least not for no reason - and have much love to give. No wonder Frenchies are the most-hashtagged dog breed on Instagram.

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Havanese

The lesser-known Havanese is the national dog of Cuba. This small, spunky pup is also the only dog breed native to this tropical island nation. Havanese doggos love to play, but always with a watchful eye, making sure their owner is near. This pup’s not clingy; he’s just loyal to his human. The Havanese does well in small spaces and doesn’t shed much, despite its thick coat of fur (a bonus for those with allergies).

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Lowchen

In German, Lowchen means "little lion dog," but this dog is more friendly than fierce. Once among the rarest dogs in the world, this toy pup’s numbers grew in the 1960s and 1970s. Today, he’s a popular companion dog, especially in Europe. This pup is smart, playful and one of the healthiest breeds, often living 15 years or more. The Lowchen is gentle and devoted without high exercise needs. He’s no couch potato, but he will make a good sofa pal in a small apartment.

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