Worst Dog Breeds for Apartments 

Everybody knows what positive effect dogs have on most people. Many people have or want dogs in the future. They simply make life better. However, dogs need space and exercise; sometimes, keeping them cooped up in a tiny apartment is not fair. Some breeds, more than others, are not made for apartment living, and we will explore the worst dog breeds for apartments further.

1. German Shepherds

Just like huskies, these dogs were made for cold conditions and can grow quite large as adults. Therefore, they need lots of space and exercise and will most likely drive their owners crazy if they are stuck in an apartment most of the day. This dog breed loves to run and will benefit from having lots of space. It is unfair for them not having enough space to release their pent-up energy. Also, German Shepherds shed a lot and will need some garden space to roll around and remove their loose fur so the furniture doesn’t get covered in hair. So, while they are obedient, German shepherds are one of the worst dog breeds for apartments.

2. Border Collies

This dog breed is on the smaller side compared to some of the others. However, they are known to be high-energy dogs and are very active. They were bred to herd sheep for farmers and needed loads of physical and mental stimulation. Therefore, border collies are one of the worst dogs for apartments. This breed needs to be somewhere with lots of space to run around, such as a farm or field. Also, they would benefit from having some grass to play on. If this dog is kept in an apartment, it becomes depressed as there is insufficient space to keep it stimulated.  

3. Huskies

These talkative and brilliant dogs come from colder European countries and are known to be extremely active. Therefore, Huskies are really not suitable for apartment living. Also, they will need constant physical and mental exercise as they are very intelligent and must be stimulated. Additionally, they can grow to be quite large, and when they play, they won’t let anything or anyone get in their way. Unfortunately, this could lead to broken or damaged items in an apartment.

4. St. Bernards

As it is well-known, these dogs can grow to be huge. The movie Beethoven showed how much mischief these dogs can get up to. In addition, they are one of the biggest dog breeds in the world. Also, they need a lot of space as they tend to be clumsy, especially when they wag their enormous tails. Therefore, these massive dogs are one of the worst dog breeds for apartments. St. Bernards are the sweetest-natured dogs and require lots of love and affection. However, they also need a lot of outdoor time and exercise. Many people steer well clear of this breed because of their size.

5. Greyhounds

Again, this breed is not one of the biggest. However, they are very active. They are often used for racing, and therefore it is in their nature to run and be physically active. If this dog is kept in an apartment and manages to get out, it will bolt and be very difficult to catch as it can run quite fast. Ideally, Greyhounds should be walked at least twice a day. Also, they need an outdoor space to play and get rid of some of their energy.

6. Alaskan Malamutes

This breed is similar to huskies and sometimes confused with their European counterparts. They are also very talkative and need an outdoor space to make as much noise as possible. As a result, they are one of the worst dog breeds for apartments. Also, they do tend to shed a lot. Therefore, keeping them in an apartment could be unpleasant for them and you. Lastly, Alaskan Malamutes are rather large and have quite a bit of energy. Therefore, they would thrive in an environment with space to run and stretch their legs.

7. Borzois

These dogs were first bred in Russia and can grow quite big. Also, they have long shaggy hair and long legs. They are also high-energy and need all the space that they can get. Furthermore, Borzois love to run and play in the fresh air outdoors. They are a great breed but, unfortunately, not suited for apartment life.

8. Beagles

Beagles were originally bred to be hunting dogs, and they love to run and sniff around outdoors. They are very active, and it would be very unfair to them to keep them indoors all day when they could be exploring a backyard. As a result, beagles are one of the worst dog breeds for apartments. Also, they are very loud dogs, and a yard would be more suitable for them to run around barking and getting rid of their energy.

9. Great Danes

Like St. Bernard’s, these dogs are very large and take up a lot of room. Simply put, they are way too big for apartment living. Because of their size and long legs, they can walk long distances and therefore need a fair amount of exercise. Great Danes will be more comfortable in a big yard with lots of space to run and play, as they dislike being locked inside for too long. Even if they have a big yard to explore, Great Danes will still need daily exercise.

10. Boxers

These dogs are medium-sized, but they are long and slender. Also, they have a lot of energy and must receive regular exercise. They may cause chaos if locked in an apartment all day. Also, Boxers need stimulation and varied scenery; even if taken on walks, they need to be exposed to different environments.

11. Golden Retrievers

This is another dog breed that sheds a fair amount of hair. However, they are often used to help people with disabilities such as blindness. Additionally, they can adapt well to different environments. However, Golden Retrievers shouldn’t be forced to be indoors all day as they need the freedom to explore and play outdoors. Therefore, they are one of the worst dog breeds for apartments.

12. Samoyeds

These are one of the most photogenic dogs. Also, these fluffy pups are energetic, cute, and love to be around people. However, their thick coats make them look bigger than they are. They are not large dogs but still need more space than an apartment can offer. Samoyeds have lots of energy and love to run and play. 

13. Rough Collies

These intelligent dogs pride themselves on being show dogs, where they use their abilities and skills to enter competitions and perform tricks. Also, they are very social and require other dogs in their environment to have fun. Collies need space, such as a yard, to practice their skills and play, which gets rid of their energy. They would not do well in an apartment at all.

14. Labradors

Just like Golden Retrievers, this breed needs its own space. They grow to be big dogs and shed a lot. Also, Labradors need a fair amount of physical and mental stimulation, which they cannot get in an apartment.

15. Weimaraner’s

These dogs originated from Germany and were bred as hunting dogs. Therefore, they naturally have a ton of energy and will look for something to do if they are bored. Owners of Weimaraners need to match their energy because these dogs need regular exercise. As a result, they are one of the worst dog breeds for apartments.

16. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels or Blenheim’s

Both breeds originated in Europe many years ago. Much like springer spaniels, these dogs are not suited for apartment life because of their energy and not their size. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels will run for miles and play every minute of the day.

17. Briards

This breed is known to be cuddly and loveable. Because of this and their sheer size, they are not suitable for being kept in an apartment. Additionally, Briards tend to shed a lot, and their hair sticks to everything. 

18. Springer Spaniel

Spaniels, in general, need their space. Springer Spaniels are high-energy dogs and can even be hyperactive. Even though they are relatively small, they need a lot of room to explore and run around. This breed would not do well living in an apartment.

19. Dalmatians

Anyone who knows anything about dogs knows that Dalmatians are high-energy and need a lot of exercise. They may even become destructive in a yard if they are bored. Therefore, they will not be happy in an apartment.

20. Australian Cattle Dog

These dogs were bred by Australian settlers to care for their cattle. They are working dogs and have a lot of energy. Also, Australian Cattle dogs have a natural herding instinct and may become prone to destruction and biting if bored. Therefore, they are definitely not ideal for apartment living.

Summary of Worst Dog Breeds for Apartments

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Jose Arcos Aguilar/Shutterstock.com