Who says apartment dogs have to fit in a tote bag? Common sense says that if you live in an apartment, you can only have a small pet, but sometimes big dogs are the perfect fit for a small space.
What Makes a Big Dog Apartment-Friendly?
In a small apartment, you don't need a dog with constant zoomies. You want a gentle giant that makes the space feel complete. Sometimes large breeds are actually better for apartment living because they tend to be calmer and happy to just snuggle up on the couch with you.
When looking for the best big dog for your apartment, look for one that has:
Low indoor energy
Minimal barking
Low exercise requirements
Calm temperament
Friendly or indifferent to strangers
Best Big Dogs for Apartments
Finding the right large dog for your apartment is a bit like finding the perfect roommate. Do you want one who drags you out of bed for a morning hike? Or a roommate who understands the sacred art of the afternoon nap?
Calm & Low-Energy Large Breeds
These are the lazy pups who prioritize relaxation and horizontal living over activity.
Temperament: Gentle and affectionate, typically calm indoors.
Exercise: A few brisk walks daily; short bursts, low stamina.
Ideal owner: Calm, confident, enjoys moderate walks, and loves a cuddly giant.
Challenges: Size. Hallways, elevators, and fragile décor all fear that tail.
English Mastiff
Temperament: Calm, dignified, and a true indoor lounger.
Exercise: Very low; slow strolls around the block are plenty.
Ideal owner: Someone who enjoys quiet companionship and values routine.
Challenges: Legendary drool. Bring towels.
Greyhound
Temperament: Quiet, sensitive “45-mph couch potato.”
Exercise: Occasional fenced sprints, then long naps.
Ideal owner: Someone comfortable managing strong prey drive and enforcing leash rules.
Challenges: Needs soft beds and must stay leashed outdoors.
Moderate-Energy Large Dogs That Adapt Well
These dogs require a bit more legwork but are experts at flipping the off switch once they cross the threshold of your apartment.
Temperament: Friendly, adaptable, with a good indoor off switch.
Exercise: About an hour of daily activity.
Ideal owner: Someone social and playful who enjoys active engagement.
Challenges: The happy tail clears side tables.
Boxer
Temperament: Playful, devoted, and quiet indoors when exercised.
Exercise: High; needs training and active play.
Ideal owner: Someone engaged and structured, who invests time and energy every day.
Challenges: Enthusiastic greetings and a tendency to jump if not trained early.
Quiet & Neighbor-Friendly Large Breeds
If your walls are thin, these breeds are perfect for peaceful living thanks to their low-alert nature and gentle voices.
Temperament: Calm, affectionate, and rarely vocal.
Exercise: Moderate walks, happy to lounge afterward.
Ideal owner: Someone affectionate and gentle, who appreciates a sensitive, loyal companion.
Challenges: Heavy shedding in small spaces.
Newfoundland
Temperament: Sweet, patient, and very low-bark.
Exercise: Low to moderate, enjoys cool weather and water.
Ideal owner: Someone who enjoys outdoor water activities and values a protective, gentle giant.
Challenges: Heat sensitivity and drool management.
Living Successfully with Big Dogs in Apartments
Owning a giant breed in an apartment isn't about having a bigger home; it's about having a better plan.
Daily Routines That Make Apartment Living Work
Owning a giant breed isn’t about more space, it’s about planning. Start the day with a brisk walk to burn energy, and combine it with a mentally stimulating breakfast, like puzzle feeders, to keep your dog calm while you’re away. Stick to consistent bathroom breaks to prevent restlessness and accidents.
Training Tips for Small Spaces
Training is essential in small spaces. Use commands like "Place" and "Settle" to keep your dog in designated spots and transition quickly from walks to calm indoors. Practice impulse control at doors and before meals to prevent rushing through tight corridors.
Noise, Elevators, and Shared Spaces
Shared spaces require strategy. Position your dog in the back corner of elevators and use a fan or white noise to reduce hallway alert barking. Calm socialization in lobbies and corridors helps them stay indifferent to neighbors and other pets.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping mental stimulation. Your vet will tell you that mental stimulation is important for every dog, even low energy breeds. It boosts mental health and helps keep destructive behaviors at bay.
Neglecting socialization, making a large dog fearful or reactive.
Playing high-intensity indoor games, which can trigger zoomies and household damage.
Hidden Costs & Health Considerations of Big Dogs in Apartments
Owning a giant breed means everything from food to flea medication costs more. Proper budgeting is essential for managing the specialized needs and higher maintenance costs of a giant breed.
Common Health Conditions and Treatment Costs
Large dogs face unique skeletal and internal health risks that often require specialized veterinary care and higher surgical costs.
Health Condition | Typical Treatment/Management | Estimated Cost Range |
Bloat (GDV) | Emergency surgery to untwist the stomach. | $3,000 – $8,000+ |
Hip/Elbow Dysplasia | Physical therapy, pain meds, or joint replacement/surgery. | $1,500 – $7,000 per joint |
Heart Conditions (DCM) | Regular cardiac ultrasounds and daily medication. | $600 – $1,500 annually |
Cruciate Ligament Tears | Surgery and several months of rehab. | $3,500 – $6,000 per leg |
How Pet Insurance Supports Big Dogs in Apartments
Thankfully, having a puppy health insurance policy ensures that a sudden medical emergency doesn’t derail your monthly budget or savings goals.
When a major health challenge arises, insurance allows you to say yes to the care your dog needs. It removes the stress of a high-cost medical bill so you can focus on being there for your furry roommate.
Because things like vaccinations and preventatives are more expensive for larger animals, adding an optional puppy wellness plan helps you budget for those routine costs throughout the year.
Is a Giant Breed Right for Your Apartment?
Before you commit to a giant breed, you need to be honest about how your daily habits mesh with the needs of a massive dog. Answer these questions to see if your lifestyle is truly ready for a 100-pound roommate.
How do you feel about your furniture and décor?
I want everything to stay exactly where it is.
I’m fine sharing space with a big dog and a large dog bed.
What’s your plan if the elevator goes out?
I live high up and have no backup plan.
I’m strong enough or have help to manage the stairs if needed.
How committed are you to training?
I prefer a hands-off approach.
I’m ready to train for calm behavior in tight spaces.
How do you feel about bathroom routines?
I’d prefer a setup where a dog doesn’t need to go outside every time.
I’d prefer a setup where a dog doesn’t need to go outside every time.
Mostly A’s: A giant breed may feel stressful in your current space.
Mostly B’s: You have the mindset and routine for a giant breed companion.
Best Big Dogs for Apartments
Your dog does not need a massive house or a sprawling yard to be happy. They need a consistent routine, physical comfort, and a dedicated owner who is prepared for their specific needs. If you are willing to adjust your lifestyle to accommodate theirs, you will find that a big dog does not just take up space in your apartment. They become the very best part of it.