The Office of National Statistics states within the UK, 21.7% of households live in a flat, maisonette or apartment, which is a large portion of the population. Many people love opting for a flat over a house for personal preference, or it is simply more convenient for city living. A common misconception is that flats may not be suitable for owning a dog due to space restrictions or not having a garden, however, you can still give them a great lifestyle.

Many factors come into play when owning a dog, so let’s see which dog breeds are best for a flat!

What Dog Characteristics Are Best For A Flat? 

Some dog breeds are not suitable to live in a flat. Large or energetic dogs need space and gardens to run off their energy. If your lifestyle cannot accommodate high-energy outdoor walks multiple times a day, then that dog breed won’t be for you. Instead, you should consider: 

  • Small Size: Smaller dogs that don’t grow a lot as they age are perfect for flats. This is because they naturally need less living space to move around freely. 
  • Low Energy: Some dogs like to be cosy and snuggle, with less need for the outdoors. These breeds will need daily walking but don’t need to be constantly running around. 
  • Less Vocal: When living in a flat, you are often surrounded by more neighbours directly next door or in your block. Dogs that are known to bark a lot, may annoy those around you. 
  • Temperament: Dog breeds with a more relaxed temperament will adapt easier to living in a flat. 
  • Age & Health Problems: An older dog is most likely to relax better in a flat, however, it may be a struggle for them to scale staircases to a top floor. This is where your building amenities are also a factor in how accessible your flat is. 

Best Dog Breeds For Flats 

Corgis 

Corgis are small and adaptable breeds, so won’t have any trouble settling into an apartment. Living near a park or green space will be important because they do require exercise (for their energy levels and weight management) but equally, they like to relax with their loving owner. These small and sociable dogs are a great choice.

Dachshunds 

Due to their small size, dachshunds will adapt to life in a flat quite nicely and don’t need as much space. One downside to Dachshunds is that some tend to bark a lot and sometimes have destructive behaviours, if not mentally stimulated. However, if you are at home more and dedicate efforts to dog training, a Dachshund is a good choice for living in a flat.

Chihuahua

Devoted and loving, a Chihuahua is happy in any accommodation as long as they are around their owner. Small in size and not as consistently energetic, they are happy to relax in any space. Minimal grooming requirements, a sociable breed and devotion to their owner are the perfect blend for a flat lifestyle.   

Maltese

Maltese dogs generally have a neutral temperament by being friendly but also very calm in their space. They thrive in safe spaces with their loving owner and don’t require high-energy exercise. Their small size adds to the characteristics that make a Maltese dog a popular choice for apartment living. 

Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers are fun-loving dogs that require a moderate amount of exercise. Short walks and play sessions are great for a Yorkshire Terrier and living in a flat. This intelligent breed will adapt nicely to their living surroundings. Training to stop barking will be a key task for owners to not disrupt any neighbours, and mental stimulation activities are necessary.  

Pug 

With an easy-going temperament, pugs can easily adapt to living in a flat. They shed minimal hair and don’t have the tendency to bark often. They are not high-energy but are one breed that requires weight monitoring and daily exercise to ensure they stay at a healthy weight. Loyal and intelligent, pugs have a nice blend of characteristics that are suitable for a flat or even smaller living spaces.

Considerations For Choosing A Dog Breed For A Flat

There is no one size fits approach when searching for a dog breed, particularly if you have certain criteria. While general advice is good to follow, you should also consider: 

  • Where has the dog lived before? 
  • What is the age of the dog? 
  • Have you got good amenities (eg lift) in your building? 
  • Have you got a local green space for exercise? 
  • What previous training has the dog had previously? 
  • Are you allowed dogs in the building? 
  • Is the dog sociable? 
  • What temperament does the dog have? 

Breeds are known for certain characteristics but a dog also needs to be treated on an individual basis before you take them home. This is because historical living situations, training and habits may not make them suitable for adapting to a flat. 

Dogs For Sale With A&T Trained Dogs 

Our experts here at A&T Trained Dogs can help you find the perfect companion, alongside providing specialist advice on dog breeds to suit your lifestyle. We have a selection of fully trained dogs who know basic obedience and have undergone our comprehensive vetting test. For further information, please contact us online or get in touch with our team on 01524 587315.