Dog Breeds That Love Indoor Life
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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.
Affenpinscher
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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.
Affenpinscher Summary
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Temperament: Confident, Funny, Fearless
Height: 9-11.5 inches
Weight: 7-10 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
American Eskimo Dog
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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.
American Eskimo Dog Summary
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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
Australian Terrier
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The Australian terrier is a whole lot of dog in a very small package. If there are no other dogs to compete with — it likes to have you all to itself — it will fare well as an indoor dog.
Provided it gets plenty of exercise during the day, it will be more than happy to snuggle up with you in the evening.
Australian Terrier Summary
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Temperament: Plucky, Spirited, Smart
Height: 10-11 inches
Weight: 15-20 pounds
Life Expectancy: 11-15 years
Barbet
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The Barbet, a type of French water dog, is a medium-sized, strong breed with a dense, curly coat.
As long as its exercise needs are met (it has webbed paws, so swimming will go down a treat in addition to lots of long walks), it will enjoy indoor down-time.
Barbet Summary
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Temperament: Cheerful, Loyal, Good-Natured
Height: 19-24.5 inches
Weight: 35-65 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Basenji
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The Basenji, with its graceful form and fastidious grooming habits, may have more in common with a cat than other dog breeds. It’s known as Africa’s “barkless dog,” which makes it the perfect pet if noise is an issue like, say, in an apartment complex.
However, it still needs lots of exercise and varied activities to satisfy its inquisitive nature.
Basenji Summary
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Temperament: Independent, Composed, Inquisitive
Height: 17 inches (male), 16 inches (female)
Weight: 24 pounds (male), 22 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 13-14 years
Basset Hound
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The charming basset hound has strength and stamina that belies its small stature. Although it can be stubborn on a trail (its scenting ability is said to be second only to the bloodhound), at home, it’s gentle and mild-mannered.
Those long, velvety ears are just begging to be stroked while its sleeping off its daily run.
Basset Hound Summary
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Temperament: Charismatic, Patient, Stubborn
Height: Up to 15 inches
Weight: 40-65 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-13 years
Bulldog
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The unmistakable bulldog is an adaptable, loyal companion that can live happily in a variety of environments.
It needs regular, moderate exercise, but also benefits from plenty of indoor downtime, particularly in hot, humid weather when an air-conditioned room can provide much-needed relief for its short snout.
Bulldog Summary
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Temperament: Kind, Courageous, Easygoing
Height: 14-15 inches
Weight: 50 pounds (male), 40 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 8-10 years
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
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The aristocratic Cavalier King Charles spaniel is one of those rare dog breeds that fits in with its owner’s lifestyle, whether it’s high-activity or strictly box sets on the sofa.
The King Charles is also great with children (and other dogs), making it one of the most user-friendly dogs out there.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Summary
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Temperament: Affectionate, Adaptable, Placid
Height: 12-13 inches
Weight: 13-18 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Cesky Terrier
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The national dog of the Czech Republic, the Cesky terrier is one of the more laidback terrier breeds and thrives on being part of a human family, particularly one with kids.
It’s always keen to go for a walk but requires only moderate levels of exercise.
Cesky Terrier Summary
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Temperament: Smart, Outgoing, Family-Oriented
Height: 10-13 inches
Weight: 14-24 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Chihuahua
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If you only have the space for a tiny dog, the Chihuahua won’t disappoint. Weighing no more than 6 pounds, it gives a whole new meaning to “toy” dog.
However, its big personality more than makes up for what it lacks in stature. The Chihuahua makes a great addition to a city apartment, but care must be taken if you have children, as they can be a bit feisty.
Chihuahua Summary
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Temperament: Charming, Graceful, Sassy
Height: 5-8 inches
Weight: Maximum 6 pounds
Life Expectancy: 14-16 years
Greyhound
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The majestic greyhound might not seem like a natural fit for indoor life, but it needs less exercise than you might think.
As long as you give it the chance to run full-out (i.e., on a beach or another large, quiet stretch of land), it’s quite content to spend the rest of the day lounging indoors.
Greyhound Summary
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Temperament: Gentle, Independent, Sweet-Tempered
Height: 28-30 inches (male), 27-28 inches (female)
Weight: 65-70 pounds (male), 60-65 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 10-13 years
Havanese
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Cuba’s only native dog breed, the Havanese is happy and sociable, equally at home in the city and the country.
The only requirement is that it gets plenty of attention (from as many people as possible). It’s an excellent watchdog, but not an excessive barker.
Havanese Summary
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Temperament: Comical, Cheerful, Smart
Height: 8.5-11.5 inches
Weight: 7-13 pounds
Life Expectancy: 14-16 years
Japanese Spitz
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The Japanese Spitz could be described as the comedian of the dog world. This, together with its insatiable sense of adventure, unwavering loyalty and people-pleasing nature, makes it a delightful addition to the family.
It fares well in environments with lots of outside space, but is equally content to live in a small apartment, as long as it gets regular exercise.
Japanese Spitz Summary
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Temperament: Funny, Loyal, Adventurous
Height: 12-15 inches
Weight: 10-25 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Keeshond
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The Keeshond, a medium-sized spitz dog originally from Holland, is an adaptable breed that needs regular exercise, but more than anything just wants to spend time with its human family.
So, a decent daily walk or run will be more than enough, and then it will be content to join you on the sofa for the rest of the day.
Keeshond Summary
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Temperament: Happy, Friendly, Outgoing
Height: 18 inches (male), 17 inches (female)
Weight: 35-45 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Maltese
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The tiny Maltese is an adaptable canine companion and always keen to make new friends, making it an ideal addition to a busy household.
Although its coat is long, it’s a minimal shedder, and despite being full of energy, it doesn’t need a lot of exercise.
Maltese Summary
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Temperament: Affectionate, Playful, Pleasing
Height: 7-9 inches
Weight: Less than 7 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Pug
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It’s impossible not to adore the charming pug, with its wide range of comical expressions and zest for life. A small yet solid breed, it is considered by many to be the ideal house pet, adapting quickly to whatever type of life its owner has.
It’s also a willing couch potato — but needs exercise to avoid excessive weight gain.
Pug Summary
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Temperament: Playful, Affectionate, Engaging
Height: 10-13 inches
Weight: 14-18 pounds
Life Expectancy: 13-15 years
Russian Toy
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Give the aristocratic Russian toy human companionship, and it will lead a happy life. Even with its larger-than-life character, it loves nothing more than curling up on its owner’s lap.
Regular exercise in a yard or a long run is more than enough activity for this pup.
Russian Toy Summary
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Temperament: Cheerful, Loyal, Elegant
Height: 8-11 inches
Weight: Up to 6.5 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Shih Tzu
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The Shih Tzu, a.k.a. The “Lion Dog,” guarantees a life of fun and is particularly fond of getting up to mischief with young children. This makes it a great family pet, whether you live somewhere with lots of land or in a much smaller space.
As a small dog bred to spend most of its time inside royal palaces, it's more than happy sitting on your lap, distracting you from the television or your book with its cuteness.
Shih Tzu Summary
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Temperament: Mischievous, Outgoing, Affectionate
Height: 9-10.5 inches
Weight: 9-16 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10-18 years
Whippet
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One of the most graceful breeds, the whippet is a little like a small version of the greyhound and is even more low-maintenance. It rarely barks — a big plus for apartment dwellers — and enjoys relaxing for hours on end, as long as it is exercised properly.
A healthy balance between regular retrieving sessions with a ball or flying disc and downtime by its owner’s side is all the whippet needs to be content.
Whippet Summary
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Temperament: Affectionate, Dignified, Calm
Height: 19-22 inches (male), 18-21 inches (female)
Weight: 25-40 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Yorkshire Terrier
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Don’t be fooled by the Yorkshire terrier’s dainty appearance. Beneath that long glossy coat is a feisty breed with a big attitude.
Its size and personality make it a top choice for urban dog owners the world over.
Yorkshire Terrier Summary
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Temperament: Tenacious, Bossy, Loving
Height: 7-8 inches
Weight: 7 pounds
Life Expectancy: 11-15 years
Beagle
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Because of its experience in a pack, the friendly beagle especially loves the company of other dogs and people.
Exercise for this breed depends on the individual dog, but it is perfectly happy laying on the couch with its owner. Just don’t leave it alone for too long at home, as it may get restless without socialization. Beagles are also known to bark, so beware of that when thinking about your neighbors.
Beagle Summary
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Temperament: Friendly, Curious, Merry
Height: 13 inches and under, 13-15 inches
Weight: Under 20 pounds (13 inches and under), 20-30 pounds (13-15 inches)
Life Expectancy: 10-15 years
Bichon Frise
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This dog’s white, hypoallergenic coat is ideal for indoor living. It doesn’t shed, but it does need proper grooming to prevent its hair from matting.
Plus, its friendly, loyal nature makes it easy to train.
Bichon Frise Summary
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Temperament: Playful, Curious, Peppy
Height: 9.5-11.5 inches
Weight: 12-18 pounds
Life Expectancy: 14-15 years
Brussels Griffon
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While this dog needs a daily walk, it is very comfortable indoors as a watchdog.
Its small size and short coat make it especially easy for apartment living.
Brussels Griffon Summary
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Temperament: Loyal, Alert, Curious
Height: 7-10 inches
Weight: 8-10 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Boston Terrier
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The Boston terrier is a known entertainer — not just because its coat resembles a tuxedo, but because its expressions are equally hilarious.
While this dog is prone to boredom when left alone for too long, a quick game of fetch or walk will satisfy them.
Boston Terrier Summary
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Temperament: Friendly, Bright, Amusing
Height: 15-17 inches
Weight: 12-25 pounds
Life Expectancy: 11-13 years
Coton de Tulear
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Known as the “royal dog of Madagascar,” this breed was bred to accompany native Malagasy and Merina tribal nobles.
Its small size and happy personality make it easy-going in any setting. Just remember: It’s luscious, white coat needs to be brushed several times a week.
Coton de Tulear Summary
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Temperament: Charming, Bright, Happy-Go-Lucky
Height: 10-11 inches (male), 9-10 inches (female)
Weight: 9-15 pounds (male), 8-13 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 15-19 years
Welsh Corgi
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Another dog breed with a royal history — Queen Elizabeth II has bred several throughout her reign — the corgi is known for being quite adaptable to its environment.
As long as it’s provided daily exercise, the corgi’s biggest job is to be your companion.
Welsh Corgi Summary
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Temperament: Affectionate, Smart, Alert
Height: 10-12 inches
Weight: Up to 30 pounds (male), up to 28 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 12-13 years
French Bulldog
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Considered one of the most popular small dog breeds in the world, the French bulldog gets along with just about anyone.
Perfect for families and singles alike, this breed doesn’t require a lot of exercise and will be perfectly happy giving you and your clan affection.
French Bulldog Summary
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Temperament: Adaptable, Playful, Smart
Height: 11-13 inches
Weight: Up to 28 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Papillon
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Those butterfly ears give this breed its name. After all, “papillon” means butterfly in French.
This toy dog is affectionate and playful, making a great companion in both urban and rural homes. It’s important to note, however, that its long coat requires regular grooming.
Papillon Summary
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Temperament: Friendly, Alert, Happy
Height: 8-11 inches
Weight: 5-10 pounds
Life Expectancy: 14-16 years
Pekingese
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While the Pekingese also requires regular grooming, its long coat prevents it from being too active.
In fact, this low-energy breed makes it the perfect lap dog, which is exactly what it was bred for during the Tang Dynasty in eighth-century China.
Pekingnese Summary
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Temperament: Affectionate, Loyal, Regal in Manner
Height: 6-9 inches
Weight: Up to 14 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Pomeranian
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This lively dog has the same, tiny-but-mighty demeanor as the Chihuahua.
A popular toy dog, the Pomeranian is perfectly happy with taking short walks or simply playing inside. And it also makes a wonderful therapy dog.
Pomeranian Summary
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Temperament: Inquisitive, Bold, Lively
Height: 6-7 inches
Weight: 3-7 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-16 years
Border Terrier
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This breed was bred to protect farm animals located along the border of Scotland and England. A more active dog on this list, the border terrier does respond better when well-exercised.
However, its small stature and obedient demeanor make it a wonderful companion that’s equally happy at home.
Border Terrier Summary
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Temperament: Affectionate, Happy, Plucky
Height: 12-15 inches
Weight: 13-15.5 pounds (male), 11.5-14 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Spanish Water Dog
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One of the more medium-sized dogs on this list, the Spanish water dog makes an excellent hunting companion, as it was originally bred to herd goats, sheep and cattle.
Its affectionate personality works well with adults and children alike. Plus, its coat is easy to maintain.
Spanish Water Dog Summary
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Temperament: Playful, Work-Oriented, Upbeat
Height: 17.5-19.75 inches (male), 15.75-18 inches (female)
Weight: 40-49 pounds (male), 31-40 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
Lowchen
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The Lowchen loves daily walks, but its small stature means it doesn’t have to go far.
And, despite its size, the playful Lowchen also makes an excellent watchdog.
Lowchen Summary
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Temperament: Affectionate, Outgoing, Positive
Height: 12-14 inches
Weight: 15 pounds
Life Expectancy: 13-15 years
Dachshund
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The Dachshund or “wiener dog” is known for its long body and short legs. Because of this, it doesn't always move very quickly, making it a wonderful house dog. Plus, it gets along well with other pets.
However, the Dachshund can be quite stubborn and does become bored easily, making it challenging to train.
Dachshund Summary
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Temperament: Friendly, Curious, Spunky
Height: 8-9 inches
Weight: 16-32 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-16 years
Chinese Crested
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This toy dog breed has two kinds of coats — hairless or powderpuff — but both shed very little or no hair.
It was bred to accompany Chinese sailors on their voyages, making it quite a social dog.
Chinese Crested Summary
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Temperament: Affectionate, Alert, Lively
Height: 11-13 inches
Weight: 8-12 pounds
Life Expectancy: 13-18 years
Chow Chow
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With its lion’s-mane ruff and thick coat, the Chow Chow is most comfortable indoors. This breed gets hot easily and prefers minimal activity, so having no private outdoor space definitely isn’t a dealbreaker.
And when it comes to walks, it’s more than happy with short, regular outings at a moderate pace, provided you avoid the hottest times of the day.
Chow Chow Summary
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Temperament: Dignified, Serene, Aloof
Height: 17-20 inches
Weight: 45-70 pounds
Life Expectancy: 8-12 years
Bolognese
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As a true companion dog, the ever-loyal Bolognese adapts well to indoor living, enjoying nothing more than keeping its human company. In fact, you’ll struggle to find a friendlier dog.
This small breed doesn’t need a lot of exercise, so it’s perfect for someone who’s a little less mobile.
Bolognese Summary
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Temperament: Easy-going, Faithful, Fun
Height: 10-12 inches
Weight: 5.5-9 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years
English Bulldog
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One dog breed that is unlikely to beg you for a walk is the English bulldog. This low-key breed prefers to take life at a slow pace (and will likely want regular breaks during a walk more than you will).
Another big plus for the English bulldog is that it’s good with kids and rarely agitated by other dogs.
English Bulldog Summary
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Temperament: Docile, Brave, Tenacious
Height: 14-15 inches
Weight: 50 pounds (male), 40 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 8-10 years
Great Dane
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The Great Dane is all the proof you need that a large dog can be an option for an indoor lifestyle. Although it will certainly take up a lot of space in the home — it towers over most other dogs and is taller than most people when standing on its hind legs — it loves to lounge around.
Compared to other large breeds like the Vizsla and the Weimaraner, the Great Dane needs only a moderate amount of exercise — a brisk walk two or three times a day.
Great Dane Summary
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Temperament: Alert, Sweet, Patient
Height: 30-32 inches (male), 28-30 inches (female)
Weight: 140-175 pounds (male), 110-140 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 7-10 years
Japanese Chin
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The calm, well-mannered Japanese Chin loves to spend time with its favorite humans, and while it still needs regular daily walks, it doesn’t need a lot more physical activity.
In other words, if you like to stay home and snuggle, the Japanese Chin will be more than happy to keep you company.
Japanese Chin Summary
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Temperament: Bright, Amusing, Loving
Height: 8-11 inches
Weight: 7-11 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Mastiff
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Not all mastiff breeds make good indoor pets, but the bullmastiff, American mastiff and English mastiff can adapt well to apartment life, provided you have enough space for it to move around.
This dog is so heavy, it gets exercise simply walking from room to room and walking up and down stairs. If it gets worn out during a walk or outdoor play session, you can expect it to simply lie down and take a break. So, you might not want to venture too far, in case you have to carry it home.
Mastiff Summary
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Temperament: Courageous, Docile, Dignified
Height: 30 inches & up (male), 27.5 inches & up (female)
Weight: 160-230 pounds (male), 120-170 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 6-10 years
Miniature Schnauzer
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When it comes to suitability for indoor life, the miniature schnauzer has everything going for it. It’s virtually non-shedding, the right size for small spaces and gets on well with kids and other animals.
As long as you keep it on a leash during walks to keep its strong prey drive in check, the miniature schnauzer can get its daily exercise in the city. At the same time, it will relish the chance to run loose in acres of countryside if you get the chance.
Miniature Schnauzer Summary
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Temperament: Outgoing, Intelligent, Obedient
Height: 12-14 inches
Weight: 11-20 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
Toy Poodle
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New dog owners are often attracted to the toy poodle because it has a reputation for minimal shedding (this makes it a good choice for people with allergies). Like the larger standard poodle, the toy poodle is an active breed with high energy levels, but as long as it gets daily exercise it’s perfectly content to spend a lot of time indoors.
Grooming is perhaps the biggest commitment when you have a toy poodle. Its coat will need to be brushed daily to prevent matting.
Toy Poodle Summary
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Temperament: Eager, Smart, Self-assured
Height: No more than 10 inches
Weight: 4-6 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10-18 years
Xoloitzcuintli
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Whether you can pronounce it or not, the Xoloitzcuintli (also known as the Mexican hairless dog) is a fairly uncommon breed, but it has all the potential to grow in popularity.
Xolos like long walks and have plenty of energy for high-impact play sessions, but they’re equally happy to relax around the house. If you can strike a balance, you’ll find this breed a content indoor companion.
Xoloitzcuintli Summary
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Temperament: Alert, Loyal, Serene
Height: 10-14 inches (toy), 14-18 inches (miniature), 18-23 inches (standard)
Weight: 10-15 pounds (toy), 15-30 pounds (miniature), 30-55 pounds (standard)
Life Expectancy: 13-18 years