What are the best dog breeds to keep indoors?
Choosing a pooch from a thousand others isn’t exactly easy. Besides paying attention to which one is the cutest, or seems closest to your heart, it is also important to think about a few other details, like how big your indoor space is, who you live with, and if you have kids, pick a breed that is also friendly.
Furthermore, if this is the first time you’re going to be a dog parent, it is also important to remember that dogs, no matter the breed, require attention. Some of them don’t do well if they are left alone for longer periods because they can destroy your household, while others eat so much per day that you will end up spending a ton on food.
Learn about these dog breeds that thrive indoors before committing to a life with a dog, particularly if you work away from home full-time. Don’t worry, because I am sure you will find the perfect pooch for you and your family!
American Eskimo Dog
I started the list of dog breeds that thrive indoors with the cutie American Eskimo dog. It’s super sociable and affectionate, suitable for families with kids. The Eskie comes in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. So, don’t worry if your indoor space is limited; the toy size (9-12 inches) will fit and adapt to it in no time!
This breed loves to walk a lot, so you better not leave it alone all day long, especially during the first years of its life. Eskies are super clever, so you may succeed in training them very fast. Their life expectancy is up to 15 years, so enjoy their company to the fullest.
Barbet
When it comes to dog breeds that thrive indoors, the Barbet is one. This curly fella is a medium-sized, strong breed that loves walking and swimming from time to time. Oh, and food! Barbet loves treats and regular meals, which makes them the number one foodie of the entire top.
This breed is loyal and cheerful, always there to make their owners smile, even on the cloudiest days. They don’t grow very tall, around 19 to 24.5 inches, and weigh up to 65 pounds. The life expectancy of a barbet is around 14 years, but they may live longer.
Affenpinscher
Have you ever seen an Affenpinscher before? They’re so cute and tiny, you won’t believe they’re real. The Affenpinscher is adorable and incredibly curious; it resembles a toy more than a real dog because of its size, so if you live in a small apartment, this is an ideal dog for you.
In addition to its small size (it is unlikely to be taller than 11 inches and weighs only about 8 pounds), it also has a clean, wiry coat that sheds very little and requires little exercise.
Despite being small, they are devoted and confident dogs that have the skills to defend their owners in any situation. This breed can live up to 15 years if you provide them with a comfortable lifestyle.
Basenji
This cutie is a gracious dog breed suitable for indoor life. Why did I choose Basenji as one of the dog breeds that thrive indoors? Well, even though it’s bigger compared to the others mentioned above, it doesn’t bark that often, which makes it great for those folks living in an apartment complex.
The Basenji loves being cuddled on a cozy couch, but it also loves to walk and jump around until its batteries run low. So make sure you dedicate at least 45 minutes a day to walking around the neighborhood.
Being an independent dog breed, it won’t matter if you leave it alone most of the day. And since they’re usually chill, don’t worry, they’ll ruin the furniture! The life expectancy of these pooches is around 13-14 years.
Australian Terrier
Although it comes in a tiny package, the Australian terrier is a big dog. It will do well as an indoor dog if there are no other dogs to compete with it because it prefers to have you all to itself. Australian terriers are intelligent, cheerful, and incredibly devoted dogs that will love you until the day they die. As long as they receive enough walks during the day, they will be delighted to cuddle with you in the evening.
An Australian Terrier that is at least 20 pounds and 11 inches tall will fit right in, even if you live in a one- or two-room apartment. Expect to have it by your side for at least 11 years.
Basset Hound
Because they’re docile and very mannered, the Basset Hound is one of the dog breeds that thrive indoors. However, depending on the dog, this breed may be a little stubborn at times, but with professional training, it can be fixed, so don’t worry.
On its way to sleep after its daily run, because, same as other dogs from the list, they need physical activity too, those long, velvety ears beg to be caressed. It will be an ideal companion for people with small apartments because it won’t get larger than 15 inches and weighs 65 pounds. The average lifespan of this breed is 13 years.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
One single look in its adorable eyes is enough to want a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel in your apartment. This tiny one is one of the rare dog breeds that pairs with its owner’s lifestyle, whether it be high-activity or a lazy couch-potato, is the aristocratic Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
Besides wanting to scratch and smooch them all day long (and they will love it too!), King Charles is one of the easiest dogs to handle because it gets along well with kids and other dogs. The life expectancy for this breed is around 15-16 years.
Bulldog
Everybody loves bulldogs! There is no exception. And after all, what’s not to like about these friendly faces? The recognizable bulldog is a devoted, versatile furry companion that can thrive in a range of environments.
It requires regular, moderate exercise, but it also benefits from lots of time spent indoors, especially during hot, muggy weather when an air-conditioned room greatly relieves its short snout. Since it’s a kind and easygoing dog breed, it will probably end up being super loved by anyone in your neighborhood!
Cesky Terrier
One of the more laid-back terrier breeds, the Cesky terrier is the national dog of the Czech Republic and loves being a member of a human family, especially one with children. But that doesn’t mean you won’t find it in American households as well! Although it only needs moderate amounts of exercise, it is always eager to go for a walk.
Which one is your favorite?
You decided upon one of these dog breeds that thrive indoors, and now you’re looking for a fluffy, comfortable bed for them. Don’t bother browsing through millions of dog beds because I found the perfect one for both your dog and your budget! This machine-washable, fluffy, luxury, anti-slip, waterproof dog bed is available on Amazon for $15.99.
Related article to check out: The Best 8 Small Dogs for Seniors.
