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Best Dogs for Apartment Living in Canada

Life with a Dog in the City

Whether you live in a downtown Toronto condo, a cozy Montreal apartment, or a Vancouver high-rise, having a dog is possible - and deeply rewarding. The key is choosing a breed that fits your space and lifestyle.

This guide highlights the best apartment-friendly dog breeds in Canada, focusing on dogs that are quiet, adaptable, and easy to manage in smaller homes

French Bulldog, Havanese, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel sitting calmly in a bright Canadian apartment living room, representing the best dogs for apartment living in Canada.
Published on
October 13, 2025

Toy and Companion Breeds

Toy breeds are famous for their affectionate nature and small size—perfect for compact living.

Top Picks:

  • Cavalier King Charles Spaniel — Gentle and quiet, perfect for families and first-time owners.
  • Havanese — Canada’s most popular condo companion; cheerful, low-shedding, and very trainable.
  • Maltese — Elegant and loving, thrives in calm homes.
  • French Bulldog — Low-energy and affectionate, great for city dwellers.
  • Shih-Tzu — Adaptable and calm with minimal barking when well trained.

Why They Work for Apartments:
✔️ Small and low-exercise needs
✔️ Easy to socialize with neighbours and other pets
✔️ Enjoy companionship and indoor play

🐕 Low-Energy Medium Breeds

If you prefer a slightly larger dog but still want peace and quiet, these breeds balance energy and relaxation beautifully.

Top Picks:

  • Cocker Spaniel — Gentle, affectionate, and adaptable to smaller spaces.
  • Basset Hound — Calm, friendly, and loves lounging indoors.
  • Whippet — Elegant and quiet, known as the “couch potato sprinter.”
  • Miniature Schnauzer — Smart, low-shedding, and suitable for condos.

Why They Work for Apartments:
✔️ Moderate exercise needs
✔️ Low barking tendencies
✔️ Strong bond with family mHybrid & Designer Mixes

Crossbreeds that combine low shedding and calm temperaments are rising in popularity among Canadian condo owners.

Top Picks:

  • Cavapoo — Small, affectionate, and adaptable.
  • Maltipoo — Playful yet gentle; thrives in apartments.
  • Labradoodle (Mini) — Friendly, smart, and low-shedding when from smaller lines.
  • Havapoo — A loving mix of Havanese and Poodle—great for urban families.

Why They Work for Apartments:
✔️ Low shedding (great for allergies)
✔️ Easygoing temperament
✔️ Fit comfortably in smaller spaces

Quiet & Well-Behaved Breeds

If you’re concerned about noise complaints, these breeds are naturally less vocal:

  • Basenji — The “barkless” African breed, alert and independent.
  • Greyhound — Surprisingly calm indoors, enjoys short daily walks.
  • Boston Terrier — Playful and polite with minimal barking.
  • Chow Chow — Stoic and quiet, suitable for experienced owners.

Tips for Apartment Dog Owners

  • Set a daily routine: Two short walks + mental stimulation keep dogs happy.
  • Create a potty plan: Use balcony turf or regular schedule walks.
  • Respect noise levels: Train with positive reinforcement early.
  • Use puzzle toys: Keeps dogs occupied and mentally sharp.
  • Leverage local spaces: Visit nearby off-leash dog parks for exercise and social time.

Breed Groups with Great Apartment Dogs

Adoption Tip

Many small and calm dogs await homes through rescues and local shelters. Search by temperament, not just breed—a calm adult dog often suits apartment life better than an energetic puppy.

Explore Canadian rescues like:

  • Toronto Humane Society
  • BC SPCA
  • Ottawa Dog Rescue
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