If you live in a small house or flat and want to get a pup, the good news is that the lack of space doesn’t have to get in your way. In fact, there are many dog breeds that make exceptionally good pets for people who live in a small home, and the ability of a dog to adapt to a smaller living space will depend on breed characteristics like their energy levels and amount of exercise that they need.
Dogs with a lot of energy might be happy to live in a small house or a flat, as long as you make sure that their fitness needs are fulfilled. This could mean long daily walks, daily visits to doggy daycare centres, and plenty of games at home to keep your four-legged friend mentally stimulated as well.
Dogs with lower energy often end up living in smaller living spaces. However, even though they require less activity compared to some high-energy breeds, they will still need exercise in order to keep them in optimal health. And, since smaller dog breeds take up less space, they are usually a firm favourite among pet owners who live in a small home. So, which dog breeds make the best pets for small homes?
Proper preparations before choosing a breed:
Before we explore the specific breeds that may suit your lifestyle and living situation, it’s important to remember that several practical tools can help create a harmonious living space with your new furry family member. One crucial tool is providing a comfortable spot for them to stay, while another key aspect is equipping yourself with tools to help your puppy settle in, such as the snuffle mat for dogs. This innovative solution keeps your pet mentally stimulated and promotes healthier eating habits. Adapting to a smaller living space with your pup goes beyond breed selection; it’s about creating a comfortable, engaging, and conducive environment for your pet’s overall well-being.
Bichon Frise:
This cute and fluffy dog with its baby-doll face and curly white hair is an appealing breed for any dog lover. Typically, this breed is very good-natured and loving, but of course, every dog is different, and their individual temperament will depend on a number of external factors alongside their breed. Even though they are often mistaken for Poodles, they are a different breed altogether, and since they are quite small in size, do not take up a lot of space in a small home. They do not moult a lot, but their thick curly coat will require regular care and grooming.
Boston Terrier:
Although Boston Terriers were originally bred to be fierce fighters, you’d never guess it if you met one today. This dog breed is naturally sweet and loving. Looks-wise they are quite similar in appearance to a French Bulldog with a cute little snout and pointy ears. They are a firm favourite among small home dwellers thanks to their small size, easy-going temperament, and low energy levels.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel:
With their long floppy ears, it’s hard to resist a cute Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. This breed of dog is known for it’s sweet and loving nature, and having one as a pet means you’ll never get tired of a wagging tail and plenty of face kisses. Dogs of this breed can be energetic when pups but will calm down as they grow and become used to your lifestyle, making them perfect companions dogs – they will still need daily walks. They often grow very attached to their humans and can be some of the most loyal and loving dogs out there.
Dachshund:
The Dachshund, or ‘sausage dog’, is a cute little breed of dog with a big personality. However, don’t let their short stature fool you; these dogs do tend to have a little more energy compared with other small breeds, so if you’re thinking of inviting one to come and live with you in your small home, you will need to make sure that you can provide them with enough mental and physical stimulation and exercise – they are tough enough to take on badgers.
Chihuahua:
Although they are renowned for being one of the world’s smallest breeds of dog, Chihuahuas come backed with massive personalities. And, don’t let their cute little faces fool you; Chihuahuas have been known to be a little snappy, and they can get very possessive over the things that they love, including you. Even though they don’t look like much of a deterrent, a Chihuahua might do their best to protect your small home from any intruders.
Papillon:
The Papillon, named after the French word for butterfly, is a gorgeous small dog breed that you won’t be able to resist creating an Instagram for and having portraits of them framed and hung around the house. Once known as the dwarf spaniel, they have changed somewhat in appearance over the years, but their loyalty and loving nature have not.
Pomeranian:
The Pomeranian is a cute, furry, and feisty dog breed that will reward your love and affection with fierce loyalty. They might be cute and cuddly, but they are also very independent and intelligent dog breeds, making a great choice for anybody who lives in a small home and wants a dog that they can teach tricks to. They have big personalities and are very curious, so if you want to bring a Pomeranian into your small home, be prepared with plenty of things to keep their mind occupied.
Pug:
The Pug is perhaps one of the most popular breeds for a small home since their small stature means that they really don’t take up a lot of space. And, their deep wrinkles, big, dark eyes, and flat round face can’t help but look like the cutest thing you’ve ever seen. Sadly, the Pug is more prone to health problems due to their flat face.
Shih Tzu:
Finally, the Shih Tzu has long been a firm favourite dog breed for those living in small homes. Small in size but with a big personality, a Shih Tzu will be your best friend until the end of time. With their cute faces and soft, long coats, you won’t be able to help yourself falling in love. With a moderate energy level, your Shih Tzu will need regular walking, but most are happy to chill out at home the rest of the time. You’ll also need to keep them well-groomed, too.
Are You Ready to Be a Pup Parent?
Once you have chosen your favourite breed, it’s time to get prepared. Pick up essentials such as a lead and collar, and think about arming yourself with pet insurance to help cover any vet bills you might face. Everypaw can help you find the right type of pet insurance for you and your beloved pup, with various levels of cover to choose from. Obtain a quote online, and choose from Time Limited, Max Benefit or Lifetime pet insurance.
Don’t let living in a small home put you off getting a dog – there are loads of small breeds that make the perfect companion.
