The world of our paw-some friends is versatile. Some canine friends love to stay indoors and play throughout the day, while some furry friends love to run miles and do intense exercise. Well, this variation of choice does not impact on their health.
Indoor-loving friends are small in stature and have a lower energy level—a short walk or 10 minutes of play is enough to keep them healthy. The rest of the day, they love to chill on the couch and cuddle with their owner, which has bestowed them, the title of 'indoor dogs.'
Data shows that more than 44% of US households prefer indoor pups. These pups have more minor appearances and require smaller spaces, making them ideal for apartment dwellers.
Hold on for a minute if you plan to bring a small puppy to your home. Read today's comprehensive blog to know the 14 best indoor dog breeds and their specific features so you can choose the right companion for your life.
Let's start!
14 Best Indoor Dog Breeds
Before bringing an indoor pup, you must know they are smaller, but that doesn't mean they are low-maintenance or calm. They indeed have lower energy than the larger ones. However, that does not restrict them from thriving at home.
Additionally, they need some outside playtime and socialization for their mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
1. Poodle
Poodles almost always top the best indoor dog breeds list in the world. They are gentle, calm, barely bark without a good reason, happy-to-go, and kid-friendly pups. They love to play outside, but only for one or two hours. The rest of the time, they love to be at home and in their cozy place.
However, you must spend time with them or provide interactive toys to keep them hooked. They are also good with strangers if they get the proper training.
- Size: 18-24 inches at shoulders
- Height: 18 and 24 inches (male) and 18 and 24 inches (female)
- Weight: 20.4-31.8 kg (male) and 20.4-27.2 kg (female)
- Temperament: Intelligent, alert, active, instinctual, faithful, and trainable
- Characteristics: They are fun-loving and playful. However, without training, they can develop bad habits such as biting and constant barking.
- Lifespan: 12 to 15 years
- Color: White, fawn, brown, grey, black, brindle, black and fawn, brow and fawn, bicolor and tricolor
2. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frise secures the second position on this list because of their gentle and calm nature. They love to spend most of their time on their cozy couch.
Also, they are quite social dogs. They love to go for walks and play with other dogs, but only for a short time.
Related: Why Do Dogs Like Walks?
Bichon Frises are kid-friendly and do not shed much fur. They are also hypoallergic dogs, which makes them ideal for any home. This little companion pooch is highly trainable, too.
- Size: 9 to 12 inches at the shoulder
- Height: 9.5 to 11.5 inches (both)
- Weight: 7 kg (male) and 5 kg (female)
- Temperament: Playful, affectionate, cheerful, sensitive, and gentle
- Characteristics: Perfect lap dog and does not like to bark at all
- Lifespan: 14-15 years
- Color: White, white and cream, white and apricot, white and buff
3. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are among the best lap dogs. In ancient times, they were the lapdogs of Chinese Emperors. Currently, they are popular as companions and watchdogs.
As they are excellent watchdogs, they bark to alert their owner whenever they feel something is wrong.
Usually, Shih Tzus are lazy and can spend their whole day sleeping on the couch. However, as an owner, you must consider this an alarming sign. It can lead to various health issues. Therefore, you must take them for exercise.
Often, owners give them bribes of food for this. They are friendly, docile, and social.
- Size: 9 to 10.5 inches at the shoulder
- Height: 9.11 inches (male) and 7.9-11 inches (female)
- Weight: 5.4-8 kg (male) and 5.2-8 kg (female)
- Temperament: Playful, lively, independent, gentle, spunky, and calm
- Characteristics: Loves to stay indoors, good with kids and other pets. However, they don't like rough play
- Lifespan: 10-16 years
- Color: Black, white, brindle, liver and white, liver, light brown, dark brown, black and white, gold, blue.
4. Boston Terrier
Historically, Boston terriers were bred for fighting. They have a muscled body, but they are known for their lazy character. Boston terriers can spend a whole day sleeping and playing, but at least one hour of exercise is mandatory for their well-being.
Well, it is not easy because of their laziness. Hence, if you plan to own a Boston Terrier, be ready for endless negotiations.
It is important to mention that they shed moderate fur, which can lead to allergies. Besides, be careful when they interact with kids. Often, they have no idea about their strength.
- Size: 12 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder
- Height: 15–17 inches (male) and 15-17 inches (female)
- Weight: 8-12 kg (male) and 6-8 kg (female)
- Temperament: Lively, happy, playful, and intelligent. However, sometimes they are determined and strong-willed.
- Characteristics: Typically, they are obedient and calm. However, sometimes, they develop anxiety, which leads to a barking habit.
- Lifespan: 11-12 years
- Color: Seal and white, brindle and white, black and white
5. Dachshund
Dachshunds, or Weiner Dogs, are small yet high-energy dogs. They can play for hours and need intense exercise to stay physically and mentally active.
Experts say they have dual-energy doors. If owners neglect them, they become lazy and put on weight, which can lead to several health issues.
Dachshunds are loyal, lovable, and primarily playful. They are excellent with kids. However, sometimes they can be stubborn. Owners should provide ample interactive toys to keep them happy and engaged.
- Size: 8-9 inches long at the shoulder
- Height: Standard- 8-9 inches (male and female); Miniature- 5-6 inches (male and female)
- Weight: Standard dachshunds 7.5-14.5 kg (male) and 7.3-14.5 kg (female); Miniature- less than 5 kg (male and female)
- Temperament: Clever, playful, lively, stubborn, devoted, active, independent, and courageous
- Characteristics: They are even-tempered and affectionate. However, they don't like harsh behavior.
- Lifespan: 12-16 years
- Color: Black, black and tan, blue and tan, chocolate and tan, chocolate and cream, cream, tan and red
6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
To justify the name, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels historically connected with royal families and were hunting dogs. However, they are currently known as companion dogs.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are among the most adaptive dogs ever. They can easily adapt to different lifestyles and love spending time indoors with their family, especially with kids.
For care, experts suggest brushing them regularly to avoid knots and tangles in the fur. This habit also reduces shedding and helps with grooming.
- Size: 12-13 inches at the shoulder
- Weight: 5.4-8.2 kg (male and female)
- Height: 12-13 inches (male and female)
- Characteristics: Calm, gentle, and affectionate. They need a lot of physical attention, like belly rubbing and cuddling.
- Temperament: Affectionate, playful, fearless, gentle, patient, adaptable, and graceful
- Lifespan: 10-13 years
- Color: Blenheim, black-and-tan, ruby or tri-color
7. Chihuahua
Chihuahua is one of the most popular indoor dog breeds across the globe. It is because of their size (perfect lap dog) and their habit of remaining indoors happily.
However, most people complain about their lousy temperament, sassy attitude, and persistent barking. It happens due to a lack of training. On this, experts say that they are a little powerhouse with never-ending energy and behavioral issues.
Through this, they can rule the whole house. Hence, as an owner, you must show who rules the house.
However, don't be harsh. Take time, and train them.
- Size: 5-8 inches at the shoulder
- Height: 20 cm (male) and 15 cm (female)
- Weight: 2.7 kg (male) and 1.8 kg (female)
- Temperament: Lively, aggressive, alert, quick, devoted, and courageous
- Characteristics: Friendly and feisty. Sometimes, they are aggressive and can attack larger dogs
- Lifespan: 12-20 years
- Color: Black, white, fawn, chocolate, cream, gold
8. Yorkshire terrier
The majority of owners call the Yorkshire terrier cuddle monsters. If you bring home a Yorkshire terrier, bid farewell to your personal space. They are lovable, clingy, and affectionate.
They have a high prey drive. However, due to their smaller appearance, they can't run very far.
Experts noted that they are overly possessive and protective dogs. Hence, they tend to bark at strangers. However, with the right training, this can be controlled.
Before bringing them, please note that they shed a certain amount of fur and are not fully hypoallergenic. Moreover, they produce dander and saliva.
- Size: 7-8 inch shoulder
- Height: 18-20.5 cm (male and female)
- Weight: 1.8-3.2 kg (male and female)
- Temperament: Lively, intelligent, bold, affectionate, confident, curious, active, independent, playful, and courageous
- Characteristics: They are pretty good with kids. However, kids must learn how to interact with them. They can't tolerate harsh behavior
- Lifespan: 13-16 years
- Color: Blue and tan, blue and gold, black and tan, black and gold
9. Maltese
Maltese is one of the best indoor dog breeds for families because of their small appearance and loving nature.
Related: Explore the best small dog breeds to keep in every home.
The little canine friend weighs up to 7 pounds, making handling them easy. Due to their small body, they produce a smaller amount of pee, which can be managed through an indoor pee pad. Therefore, if you have a smaller apartment and want a low-maintenance canine pal, Maltese is ideal.
However, please note that they are not suitable for extreme hot and cold weather and require constant attention.
- Size: 20-25 cm at the shoulder
- Height: 8-10 inches (male) and 8-9 inches (female)
- Weight: 1.8-3.2 kg (male and female)
- Temperament: Playful, affectionate, intelligent, docile, lively, sweet-tempered, easygoing, responsive, fearless, active, and gentle
- Characteristics: They are affectionate and gentle dogs. They are typically good with other pets and love to learn tricks.
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
- Color: White
10. Papillon
Papillons are one of the best dogs for living inside. Although they commonly serve as service dogs, they love to be indoors. They usually love to sit on laps, but sometimes, they keep running throughout the home.
According to experts, they do not need much exercise. Moderate walking is enough to keep them healthy and fit. To train them, make a schedule for a walk and follow it religiously.
Like most indoor dogs, papillons are kid-friendly. Moreover, They do not bark much and can socialize with cats and other dogs.
- Size: 8-11 inches at the shoulder
- Height: 20-28 cm (male and female)
- Weight: 3.6 -4.5 kg (male) and 3.2-4.1 kg (female)
- Temperament: Intelligent, friendly, alert, energetic, and happy
- Characteristics: Love to be with people and other pets. They have separation anxiety and need constant attention.
- Lifespan: 13-15 years
- Color: White, red and white, white and chocolate, fawn and white, black and white, and sable.
11. Bolognese
Originally, Bolognese was a gift for Spanish nobles. However, they are now known as lap dogs and the best dog breed for inside houses.
Bolognese dogs belong to the Bichon family and have a sturdy, square body. Unlike many indoor dogs, they are quite serious. They are intelligent and witty enough to be trainable. Plus, Bolognese is not a high-energy dog, so it is ideal for smaller houses.
If you plan to have a Bolognese, note that they do not do well alone. They need constant human attention and care.
- Size: 10-12 inch shoulder
- Weight: 2.5-4 kg (male and female)
- Height: 27-30 cm (male) and 25-28 cm (female)
- Temperament: Docile, loyal, reserved, enterprising, and serious
- Characteristics: Loyal and companion dog. However, separation can cause anxiety and lead to ill physical health
- Lifespan: 10-14 years
- Color: White
12. Havanese
Havanese is the 12th dog breed on our list, and they are one of the most popular indoor dog breeds. Although they are indoor dogs, they also love social interactions, like playing with other pets and meeting strangers.
Havanese is originally from Cuba but is especially popular among American city dwellers. Their social nature, fast adaptability, and sturdy body are the reasons behind this popularity.
Before adopting a Havanese, you must know that they are not hypoallergenic. They shed fur just like other breeds. However, experts say it can be handled through regular grooming.
- Size: 8.5-11.5 inches at the shoulder
- Height: 8.5-11.5 (male and female)
- Weight: 3.2-5.9 kg (male and female)
- Temperament: Affectionate, playful, intelligent, responsive, gentle, and companionate
- Characteristics: They love to stay indoors and play games. They also love to learn tricks and tend to apply them.
- Lifespan: 14-16 years
- Color: White, black, fawn, mahogany, Havana brown and tobacco
13. Pug
Pugs are one of the most popular apartment dogs. They can adapt to the environment of any place faster. Also, they are affectionate and playful. Thus, pugs are the best option if you have a kid or senior citizen at home. Pugs feel the best when they get their favorite food and human.
However, pugs are not suitable for too hot or too cold weather. If the weather gets too hot, they need an air conditioner room to keep them healthy. Experts suggest providing them with moderate exercise to make them live longer.
- Size: 10-14 inches at the shoulder
- Height: 10-13 inches (male and female)
- Weight: 6.3-8.1 kg (male and female)
- Temperament: Charming, clever, playful, docile, mischievous, stubborn, affectionate, and calm
- Characteristics: Pugs are incredibly calm. They are ideal for kids and senior people.
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
- Color: Black, fawn, silver fawn and apricot
14. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are another lazy and the best dog breed for inside the house. Although they are known to spend their time as couch potatoes, they need to exercise regularly to stay fit. Hence, experts suggest that owners must take them to walk religiously.
Historically, hunting dogs have been used. Hence, they can protect the house. Simultaneously, they are kid-friendly and playful, making them a perfect home companion.
Experts say they are not good at showing love but incredibly loyal.
- Size: 14 inches at the shoulder
- Height: 12-15 inches (male) and 11-14 inches (female)
- Weight: 25-34 kg (male) and 20-29 kg (female)
- Temperament: Tenacious, sweet-tempered, friendly, affectionate, devoted, and gentle
- Characteristics: They love to live with children. However, keeping an eye is essential for safety because they tend to knock over children.
- Lifespan: 10-12 years
- Color: Black, white, and tan
These dogs love to spend maximum time with their family by playing or cuddling. Hence, it is important to give them the right attention. Some dogs, such as Bolognese or Poodle, do have separation anxiety.
Therefore, spending time with them is crucial if you want their emotional well-being.
Additionally, taking them for regular walks and exercise is essential to keep them fit. However, the amount of exercise depends on the breed. Hence, have a word with an expert on this.
What Makes a Dog Breed Suitable for Indoor Living?
An indoor dog is best for a calm and quiet lifestyle. They mostly spend their time cuddling their owner and lying on the couch. They bring warmth, love, and companionship at home. Here, one might ask what features make a dog breed ideal for indoor living. Let's shed light on that:
1. Lower Amount of Barking
Indoor dogs are primarily meant for apartment leaving. Persistent barking can cause chaos in an apartment, and people can object. Therefore, dogs like Huskies are not suitable for apartment living for this. Indoor pups like Poodle do not bark without a good reason and are ideal for calm living.
2. Low Shedding Coat
Too much shedding can be an issue for owners. Most indoor breeds have either low- or no-shedding coats. This helps with easy cleaning and managing in a smaller space. Hence, they are the best dogs for indoor environments.
3. Lower Energy Level
People with kids at home or senior people mostly prefer indoor dogs. They can't handle overly energetic dogs, like Husky, so indoor dogs are best for them. Indoor dogs cuddle for hours and can spend the whole day playing, which gives them the feeling of companionship.
Common Challenges for Indoor Dog Breeds
You will be surprised that smaller dogs face more health issues than their larger counterparts. Due to their smaller appearance, they used to have lower immunity power, which makes them vulnerable to many health issues.
Apart from that, genetics, lifestyle, and other external factors raise various challenges for them. Here are some of them:
• Health Issues
Indoor breeds have become the target of many health issues, such as dental, Patellar luxation, Cryptorchidism, and many more. Hence, they need regular check-ups and close attention.
• Bad Temperament
Breeds like Chihuahua and Poodle often have behavioral issues. People tend to ignore these all due to their smaller size and zero capability of harming others. However, with time, it can be irritating. To avoid this, opt for the proper training.
• Birthing Issues
Due to their more petite figure, they face gestation and whelping difficulties. Their smaller pelvis makes birthing a life-threatening incident. Many times, they even need Cesarean sections.
Knowledge is one of the best tools for taking care of a furry friend. Do adequate research to learn about the conditions that affect the pup and seek help from a veterinarian. Remember, your proactive approach can ensure a healthy life for your little friend.
Tips to Adopt Your Dog Indoors
Pet parenting is not an easy endeavor. It is a 24/7 job and a lifetime commitment. It starts with developing a deep bond based on trust, respect, and understanding. This bond ensures joyful days with your furry friend.
Follow some tips before adopting them to ensure joyful days and endless cuddles. Here are the tips for you:
1. Arrange the Place First
The pup can be excited or anxious after coming into a new home, which can lead to some 'unwanted' incidents at home. Hence, it is important to choose a comfortable and easy-to-clean place.
Additionally, make this place cozy enough with a bed, food, and toys to reduce any fear of anxiety if they have.
2. Prepare Your Home
A healthy puppy is highly energetic. They tend to play with everything they see. It can lead to the destruction of your things and absolute chaos. Hence, keep shoes, dirty clothes, and makeup or personal care products far from your dog's reach.
3. Get the Necessary Accessories:
Right after entering the house, your pup will require many things. In addition to a cozy bed, food, and water, you should get your hands on a pet carrier, dedicated bowls, and a collar and identity tag.
The pet carrier is crucial for traveling with your pup, while a collar ensures safety on regular walks.
According to experts, owners always buy no-pull collars to ensure the highest comfort of their furry companion. Even if your pup suddenly jumps or starts running, this type of collar will not make any issue.
Enjoy the Best Moments with your Indoor Pup with Doodle Couture Accessories
These little pooches are a bundle of joy. They fill their owner’s life with unconditional love and unlimited memories. With them, every moment is playful and enjoyable.
To make these moments more enjoyable, gift them cute accessories from Doodle Couture. They have a wide range of accessories such as waterproof blanket to bandana, they have everything which can bring smile to little pooch.
Cherry on the top is they provide a whole look idea for your little best friend. It means, you can choose right harness, and then end the look with matching bandana. Then, what are you waiting for? Check out the site now!
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