13 Big Dog Breeds Suitable for Apartment Living

Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you’re limited to small dogs. In fact, some large breeds are surprisingly well-suited for apartment life — especially the ones who are calm, quiet, and low-energy once they mature. Over the years, we’ve met plenty of big dogs who were total couch potatoes and perfectly happy in smaller spaces.

That said, size isn’t everything. What really matters is temperament, energy level, and how much barking they’re likely to do (your neighbors will thank you). Here are some large breeds we’ve found to be great apartment companions — as long as you meet their basic needs for mental stimulation, exercise, and love.

Big Dogs That Do Surprisingly Well in Apartments

1. Great Dane
These gentle giants are famously mellow. Despite their huge size, most Danes are incredibly laid-back and love lounging around. They do need daily walks, but they’re not hyper or demanding indoors. Just make sure you’ve got space for them to stretch out—these dogs think they’re lapdogs!

2. Bullmastiff
Quiet, loyal, and super low-energy, Bullmastiffs were bred to guard estates, not run marathons. They’re protective but not aggressive, and they rarely bark. Their stoic nature makes them excellent apartment dogs, but they do best with consistent structure.

3. English Mastiff
Even bigger than the Bullmastiff, but just as chill. These dogs are surprisingly gentle and affectionate. The only real challenge? Their sheer size — navigating tight hallways and small elevators can get interesting.

4. Saint Bernard
Sweet and goofy, Saint Bernards are calm indoors and typically great with kids. They don’t need tons of exercise, but they do need space to lie down and cool off (they run hot with all that fur). And yes, be ready for some drool.

5. Newfoundland
Affectionate and gentle, Newfies are basically giant teddy bears. They’re not barkers, and they love lounging around. Just be prepared for some serious grooming and a lot of hair during shedding season.

6. Irish Wolfhound
Tall but not rowdy, Irish Wolfhounds are surprisingly low-key. They might look like they belong in the wilderness, but they’re calm, gentle, and very affectionate. Just keep in mind their shorter lifespan — it’s something to emotionally prepare for.

7. Afghan Hound
Independent and elegant, Afghan Hounds tend to be quiet and aloof. They enjoy lounging and aren’t overly needy, which can work well in apartment settings. That coat, though — it needs regular upkeep.

8. Bernese Mountain Dog
Calm, loyal, and good-natured, Berners can be happy in apartments if they get regular walks. They’re not barky, but they do shed… a lot. Daily brushing helps keep the fur tumbleweeds under control.

9. Dogue de Bordeaux
These stocky French mastiffs are affectionate and surprisingly chill. They love their people but don’t demand constant attention. Just know they have a shorter lifespan and can be prone to joint issues — a ground-floor apartment or elevator access is ideal.

10. Cane Corso
Strong and protective but very attached to their family, Cane Corsos can be great apartment dogs with the right training. They need confident owners and clear boundaries but aren’t hyper or noisy.

11. Rhodesian Ridgeback
I’ve got a soft spot for this one — my first dog was a Ridgeback. They’re athletic but not hyper indoors. As long as they get solid daily exercise, they’re calm and affectionate companions. Mine loved curling up after a long walk and barely made a peep.

12. Boxer
Boxers are playful and full of personality, but they adapt well to smaller spaces if you give them enough activity. They’re kind of like toddlers — high-energy spurts followed by long naps. Daily playtime is key.

13. Standard Poodle
Often overlooked as a large breed, Standard Poodles are smart, active, and very trainable. They’re great for apartments if you keep them mentally stimulated. Bonus: their curly coat doesn’t shed much, which is a huge plus in tight spaces.

A Few Real-World Tips

• Stairs are tough on big dogs, especially as they age. If your building doesn’t have an elevator and you're not on the ground floor, think twice.
• Daily walks are non-negotiable. Even chill dogs need a chance to stretch their legs and sniff the world. Skipping this can lead to boredom and behavior issues.
• Noise matters. Breeds that bark less (like Bullmastiffs, Newfies, and Saint Bernards) are a better fit for close living quarters.
• Floor space beats yard space. Most of these dogs are happy with a comfy bed, some toys, and your company — they don’t need a backyard if you walk them regularly.

At the end of the day, it’s not just about the breed — it’s about the match between your lifestyle and your dog’s needs. If you’re willing to put in the time and love, even the biggest dogs can thrive in an apartment.