Dog Breeds That Thrive Indoors

Choosing a dog breed is no easy task. You have to take into account how you live, where you live and who you live with. Some breeds get along great with kids, while others are best suited to older companions. Some don’t cope well with long periods of separation, while others can be left alone most of the day without feeling neglected (or destroying your home).  And while certain breeds need lots of wide-open spaces and crave the outdoors at all hours, others are more than happy to curl up beside you on the sofa — morning, noon and night.

Before you commit to life with a canine companion, especially if you work full-time away from your home, get familiar with these dog breeds that are perfectly happy indoors. Whatever your lifestyle, there’s something here for everyone.  

Small, cute and ever-so-curious, the Affenpinscher looks more like a toy than a real dog. This is perfect if you live in a small apartment.

Not only does it take up very little room (it’s unlikely to be taller than 11 inches and weighs only around 8 pounds), it has a neat, wiry coat with minimal shedding, and doesn’t need a lot of exercise. 

Temperament: Confident, Funny, Fearless

Height: 9-11.5 inches

Weight: 7-10 pounds

Life Expectancy: 12-15 years

Most content when with human family, the highly sociable American Eskimo dog (affectionately known as the Eskie) comes in three sizes: standard, miniature and toy — and all are a good fit for indoor life. 

This breed needs a lot of exercise and mental stimulation, but it definitely won’t enjoy being left out in the yard all day. When the Eskie reaches middle age, it typically becomes even more of a stay-at-home type. 

Temperament: Alert, Clever, Sociable

Height: 9-12 inches (toy), 12-15 inches (miniature), 15-19 inches (standard)

Weight: 6-10 pounds (toy), 10-20 pounds (miniature), 25-35 pounds (standard)

Life Expectancy: 13-15 years