Living in an apartment doesn’t have to spell bad news for all you dog lovers out there. You can still enjoy the delights of life with a canine, especially if you choose the right one.

Though the assumption is that smaller dogs are better for apartment life, that isn’t necessarily true, according to the American Kennel Club. Some small dogs are extremely energetic or can be very persistent barkers – two things you want to avoid in small spaces and communal living.

So which dogs are the best bet for life in an apartment? Here are a few to check out.

Pug

Could anything be cuter than these sweet pups? Most people can’t help but melt when looking at a sweet, wrinkly pug face. These dogs are a great match for apartment living. They are small, relatively quiet, and are happy to just lounge around and be loved on. Just note that they have a hard time in extreme weather conditions and that with their tendency toward inactivity, they can struggle with obesity if you’re not mindful of their diet.

Shih Tzu

These fluffy canines are the ultimate cuddle buddies. Who wouldn’t want to come home to such a lovable creature? Shih Tzus are notoriously friendly and gentle, which makes them well-suited for apartment dwellers.

Chihuahua

These teeny-tiny dogs come with huge personalities. You’ll never have space issues, what with their petite frame, but it’s important to make sure you’re willing to invest time into their training – otherwise, you’ll find that your tiny pup has become the alpha in your home!

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

This breed was made famous by the HBO hit Sex & the City, when Charlotte became a fur parent to one of these soft, cuddly dogs. They are well-known for their friendliness, diminutive size, and incredibly silky hair. It’s the perfect companion to strut out at the dog park.

Greyhound

That’s right – even this larger, fast breed is a fine bet for apartment living. They burn so much energy when playing that they tend to enjoy a lot of lounging during the day, which means you can show them off at the dog park with a wicked workout or two with the confidence that they’ll enjoy their downtime afterward.

Keep up with the Carrington Oaks blog for more tips on apartment living.