French Bulldog
Can't decide between a Boston terrier and an English bulldog? Why not combine the best of both worlds and bring home a French bulldog? Frenchies boast almost all the traits of English bulldogs (quiet, patient, loyal and happy just to relax with you) and the smaller size of the Boston terrier. In fact, they are so similar in appearance to Boston terriers that many people have difficulty telling the breeds apart. Frenchies may not be quite as lazy as their English cousins, but they make up for it with their small size and lighter weight.
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Chihuahua
Years of being toted around in starlets' purses may have given this breed something of a privileged diva reputation, but they're actually quite gentle and low-maintenance. After all, how many other breeds are patient enough to tolerate being kept in a purse in the first place? Their tiny size means they can make it in even the most closet-y of New York studio apartments, and even longhaired chihuahuas require only moderate grooming. Keep in mind, though, that Chihuahuas can be a bit loud, so think twice if your pad has thin walls.
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Dachshund
Dachshunds make wonderful family dogs due to their playful nature and how good they are with kids. They're also small and adaptable to just about any living space and lifestyle, including small apartments. Dachshunds don't require a ton of exercise, but be careful, because the breed is prone to obesity. Also, like Chihuahuas, this is a barky breed, so get ready to have a guard dog around.
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Greyhound
Like the Great Dane, a greyhound at first glance is a surprising choice for an apartment dog. Surely a racing dog needs a huge yard in which to run huge laps all day long, right? Actually, the opposite is true. Greyhounds tend to be calm and relaxed. Even if you've got a former racer, remember: that dog is retired. Its running days are over. Now it just wants to curl up with you and hang out, go for the occasional walk, no big whoop. Bonus: their short hair makes for very low-maintenance grooming, and won't fill your tiny apartment with sheddings.
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Great Dane
On first thought, a Great Dane may seem like the very last dog breed you'd pick to live with you in your tiny apartment, but looks can be deceiving. These infamously enormous dogs are actually quite gentle giants. Like English bulldogs, they're content to loaf around all day, and will probably spend most of their time curled up on your couch, relaxing. Great Danes are also perfectly quiet; you'll hardly even know they're there! And since they're easily trainable, you'll be able to work through any behavioral problems you might encounter. Apartment life with one of these sweet dogs should be pretty smooth sailing.
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Pug
Pugs are hugely popular dogs among city dwellers, and it's not just because of their peppy demeanors and adorably smushed faces (although that has a lot to do with it). Pugs are highly affectionate dogs. They want to be wherever you are, and will loyally follow you around your apartment all day long. They have energy, and will gladly join you for walks, but they're also content to nap. The breed does require some grooming, because all those folds in its mug needs to be cleaned and maintained regularly. Also, pug's breathing issues mean that air conditioning is a must during warmer months. Plus, get used to the dog's snoring.
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