Condo Pet Parenting: Find the Best Breed for Small Spaces

Many condominium developments around the country market themselves as pet friendly. Some properties even offer open areas and lawns dedicated to homeowners’ pets. For this month’s article, we’re compiling a list of dog breeds that are best suited for condo living! 

Shih Tzu 

• Energy: Low. Dogs with high energy could be trickier in condo settings. To keep up with their exercise needs, pet parents would have to compensate with more walks, running, and time outside. Low-energy dogs like Shih Tzus may be a better fit for your lifestyle. 
• Barking: Low. Living in a condo means that you have to be considerate towards your neighbors too. With a constant flow of people, elevator encounters, and deliveries, it’s ideal to find a dog that’s on the quiet and less reactive side. 
• Bonus perk: Shih Tzus are bred to be companion dogs so they’re especially comfortable around people – a great plus for a condo dog! 

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 

• Energy: Low-moderate 
• Barking: Low-moderate 
• Bonus perk: Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known to go with the flow. Whether you want to spend the day watching movies or go out for a long walk, they’d be happy to keep you company. 

French Bulldog 

• Energy: Low 
• Barking: Low-moderate 
• Bonus perk: Frenchies are known to like cozy spaces. This trait can help them better adjust to a condo and also make them easier to transport in carriers for car rides too! 

Havanese 

• Energy: Moderate 
• Barking: Low-moderate 
• Bonus Perk: Havanese tend to shed less compared with other dogs. This could mean less time brushing off fur from furniture! 

Toy Poodle 

• Energy: Moderate-high 
• Barking: Moderate 
• Bonus perk: Poodles are some of the smartest dogs around. For a pet parent in a condo, you can train a toy poodle proper elevator manners, how to stay calm when guests arrive in the condo, not to bark at hallway noises.