If you're lucky enough to live in an apartment with lax weight restrictions for dogs, we've got some of the best medium-sized dog breeds, all under or around seventy pounds, that make the best canine roommates for apartment living. These medium dogs for apartments offer the best of all sized-breeds when it comes to companionship, exercise partners, and sharing close quarters. And while these roomies may steal your food and hog your bed, they'll pay their share of the rent in love and devotion.
If you prefer a slightly smaller companion, explore our comprehensive guide on 38 Best Dog Breeds for Apartment Living, featuring some great pups around 25 pounds.
Greyhounds
60-70 pounds
Best for: Those with an active lifestyle, first-time dog owners, families with older children, multi-pet households
Don't let their professional reputation mislead you. Greyhounds are often called "gentle giants" for a reason. While a racing Greyhound can dash at speeds up to 45 mph, at home, most Greyhounds are content to sprawl out on your couch, preferably tucked in under a blankie. They're generally quiet, clean, and have relatively low exercise needs, typically requiring a couple of short walks per day. Greyhounds are often recommended for those with an active lifestyle due to their love of running, but their calm and gentle nature also makes them a great choice for first-time dog owners. They tend to get along well with other dogs and can be good with cats if properly introduced, making them a great addition to multi-pet households.
Shar Peis
45-60 pounds
Best for: Those who spend much of the day away from home, experienced dog owners, single-pet households
The Shar Pei is a loyal and devoted companion who forms a strong bond with their primary caregiver. They're typically quiet, clean, and don't demand a ton of exercise, making them ideal for those who have to leave their pup alone. However, their independent nature and potential for stubbornness means they may be better suited to experienced dog owners. Shar Peis can be aloof with strangers and may not always get along with other dogs, so they often do best as the only pet in the household.
Bulldogs
40-50 pounds
Best for: First-time dog owners, those who spend much of the day away from home, families with children, seniors
The classic Bulldog is a perfect medium-sized apartment dog, known for their laid-back, friendly personalities and distinctive "sourmug" facial features. Despite their oafish appearance, their devotion to their people makes them very trainable and obedient. They're affectionate without being needy, and likely to be social with other people and pets in your building. Bulldogs are excellent for first-time dog owners and those who spend much of the day away from home because of their easy-going temperament and low exercise needs.
Standard Poodles
40-70 pounds
Best for: Families, those with an active lifestyle, those with allergies, multi-pet households
Standard Poodles are considered one of the most intelligent breeds around, and their trainability and social nature make them ideal medium-sized apartment-friendly dogs. They are reliable when it comes to housebreaking and aren't usually big barkers. Poodles are also known for their hypoallergenic coats, which shed minimally and make them a good choice for people with allergies. Standard Poodles are perfect for families and those with an active lifestyle because of their playful, energetic nature and their ability to get along well with children and other dogs.
Rhodesian Ridgebacks
70-85 pounds
Best for: Those with an active lifestyle, those who work from home, experienced dog owners, single-pet households
The largest in our mid-sized category, the Rhodesian Ridgeback's temperament is extremely well suited to apartment life. Despite their muscular physique, they require less exercise than similarly built dogs. They love their families and don't require extensive grooming, so they're a low fuss pet all around. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are best for those with an active lifestyle and those who are often home because of their loyal, protective nature and their need for regular exercise and companionship.
Basset Hounds
50-65 pounds
Best for: First-time dog owners, those who spend much of the day away from home, families with children, multi-pet households
Basset Hounds are delightful companions with a playful streak, known for their endearing wrinkles, velvety ears, and soulful eyes. Their easygoing, adaptable nature makes them well-suited to apartment life, and their short stature means they don't require extensive exercise. While they can be a bit stubborn when it comes to training, their affectionate and loyal personalities more than make up for it.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
13-18 pounds
Best for: Families, elderly, those who work from home, first-time dog owners, multi-pet households
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are small, gentle dogs with a sweet, affectionate nature that makes them well-suited to apartment life and excellent companions for people of all ages. They require moderate exercise, typically a couple of short walks per day, and enjoy playing games and spending time with their owners. Cavaliers are ideal for families, seniors, and those who work from home because of their loving, adaptable nature and their ability to form strong bonds with their owners.
Protecting Your Medium Apartment Dog
When welcoming a medium-sized dog into your apartment, it's essential to consider their health and well-being. Even the most well-cared-for dogs can experience unexpected accidents or illnesses, such as broken bones from a fall, ingesting a foreign object, or developing a serious condition like cancer or diabetes. These medical situations can be emotionally taxing and financially devastating without proper planning.
Investing in a comprehensive dog insurance plan can provide peace of mind and ensure that your furry friend receives the best possible care when they need it most. Look for a plan that covers a wide range of accidents and illnesses, as well as an optional wellness plan to help budget for routine care like check-ups, vaccinations, and dental cleanings. With the right pet insurance plan in place, you can focus on enjoying your time with your beloved companion, knowing that you're prepared for whatever life may bring.
Welcome Home: Bringing a Medium-Sized Dog into Your Apartment
When you bring your medium-sized dog into your apartment, you quickly realize that the true essence of "home" isn't defined by square footage, but by the love and laughter that fills the space between the walls.
Sure, your furry companion may not be able to sign their name on the lease or contribute to the monthly rent. But the wealth of affection, companionship, and unwavering loyalty they offer every single day is a priceless form of payment that money can't buy.
As you and your canine roommate navigate the joys and challenges of apartment living together, remember that the bond you share is the most valuable asset of all – and it's one that will only grow stronger and more valuable with each passing year.