8 best large dogs for apartments

If you live in an apartment and aren’t so keen on the smaller breeds, you’ll need to determine which are the best large dogs for apartments.

While it’s true that the size and weight of a large dog may not be ideal in an apartment, many large dog breeds can cope well in a smaller space. Of course, you’ll need to consider the temperament and characteristics of the breed you are thinking of to check that you can still meet their needs.

We must advise that it is critical that you are able to provide enough space and exercise that large dogs require for both their mental and physical health.

For example, many large breeds will need plenty of time to stretch their legs and exercise, and if you don’t have access to a backyard, this is something you’ll need to work around. Our expert vet, Dr Rebecca Macmillan, also shares some advice on what you need to consider when having a dog in an apartment.

If you decide that actually you can’t give a large dog what you need in the space you have available, you could consider a low-energy dog breed or one of the smaller dog breeds.

Best large dogs for apartments

1. Golden retriever

Considered one of the friendliest dog breeds, the golden retriever makes for a gentle and mellow companion in the home.

They generally love meeting new people, so your neighbors are likely to love him as much as you do. One of the best service dog breeds, golden retrievers are typically adaptable to whatever situation they find themselves in.

Their intellect makes it easy to train them, while their calming temperament is unlikely to cause much trouble around the apartment. Just make sure you work off their energy by taking them to the nearest green space.

2. Cane corso

Cane corsos can live happily in an apartment, providing you give them the right exercise and socialization they need.

A natural guard dog who'll protect family and home, a cane corso is calm, relaxed, and quiet inside an apartment, but they need lots of exercise and plenty of activities to keep them mentally stimulated, so be prepared to ensure your dog lives a full and enriched environment, inside and out.

3. English Bulldog

If you define size as weight rather than height, then the English Bulldog comes into the large dogs for apartments category.

These dogs can weigh up to 50lbs and are happy to spend their days sleeping and lounging around. They're not too big for apartment living, more of a medium size, which can be ideal for smaller spaces.

English Bulldogs have a relaxed temperament and will barely bark, despite their outward appearance of being a tad grumpy-looking.

4. English Mastiff

If you're looking for a gentle giant, then look no further than the English Mastiff. Although his large size may pose a problem when it comes to some landlord's requirements, his moderate activity level and gentle disposition make him a great companion for apartment living, providing you can give him space to stretch his legs.

Beware the English Mastiff puppy, however, as these little pups can be pretty destructive and are generally not suitable for apartments. As they grow older, though, you'll find their temperament will settle, and they'll become a much calmer canine.

5. Chinese Shar-Pei 

Top of the pack when it comes to the best large dogs for apartments is often the Chinese Shar-Pei and for good reason too.

This wrinkly dog breed is a sizeable canine that requires a low to moderate amount of exercise and doesn't require much space to roam around. An added bonus is the Shar-Pei's distinctive look meaning they are generally a low-shedding dog breed, although seasonal shedding does occur.

Their calm nature means they're not likely to bark continuously, though do expect a spot of grunting and singing!

6. Greyhound

Greyhounds are one of the fastest dog breeds, but you may actually be surprised by how mellow this breed can be.

They are incredibly loyal and obedient and love nothing more than stretching out on the sofa or dog bed with their paws sprawled out. He rarely barks and is both an intelligent and gentle companion to have around the apartment.

7. Basset Hound

With their lazy temperament and mellow character, the basset hound can be a great choice when it comes to considering the best large dogs for apartments.

They're not big enough to be overwhelming, but they're not so small and spunky either that you find them barking down the door.

Basset hounds have fairly low energy levels and an incredibly loyal to their owners. You may find them shedding a lot around the apartment is the main drawback to this wonderful pooch.

8. Keeshond

Keeshonds typically have a sweet temperament and don't require a whole lot of room to be happy.

These adaptable pups are people-lovers who like being by their owner's side, but they do have a tendency to bark, which could pose a problem for any surrounding neighbors.

As long as you ensure that you don't leave them alone for too long, the Keeshond love a cheerful apartment companion.

What to consider when having a dog in an apartment

Dr. Rebecca MacMillan says: “All dogs need to toilet outside, so if you want to have a dog in an apartment, large or otherwise, you need to be prepared to take them out at regular intervals.”

She also recommends an apartment that has an elevator, as young dogs can easily go up and down stairs, but an older dog with joint issues may not be able to.

You will also need to ensure that you have enough floor space for them inside the apartment to stretch their legs in.

Dr. MacMillan also says, "A high-energy breed would not be suitable, you will need to pick one with more moderate exercise needs. You must only get a big dog if you have access to a close by outdoor green space as they will need the opportunity for proper exercise. A busy inner-city area is not appropriate for most large breed dogs."

Read next: Best cats for apartments

Edited by Georgia Guerin.