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When people think of apartment-friendly dogs, they usually imagine small, compact breeds like French Bulldogs or Chihuahuas. But what about the big dogs? Surprisingly, many large breeds can thrive in apartment living—often better than their high-energy, yappy small dog counterparts. Many big dogs are gentle giants who prefer lounging over running laps, and as long as they get daily exercise, they’re perfectly happy in a cozy space. Some of them are incredibly low-energy, while others just love snuggling up to their humans, no matter how small the couch may be.
Great Dane
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Yes, Great Danes are enormous, but their personality is pure couch potato. Nicknamed the “Apollo of Dogs,” these gentle giants are surprisingly well-suited for apartment living. They have relatively low energy levels and are perfectly content lounging around all day like overgrown lap dogs. While they do need regular walks to stay healthy, they don’t require constant activity like some smaller, high-energy breeds. Great Danes are also known for being quiet and well-mannered—no excessive barking or bouncing off the walls. The only downside? You may have to rearrange your furniture to accommodate their epic lounging sessions.
Greyhound
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People often assume Greyhounds need tons of space because they’re built for speed, but in reality, they’re professional nappers. These sleek, elegant dogs are known as “40-mph couch potatoes” because they love a good sprint but are equally happy snoozing for hours. Greyhounds are one of the most laid-back large breeds, making them perfect for apartment living. They are also quiet, gentle, and have a naturally clean, low-odor coat. As long as they get a daily walk (and maybe a quick burst of zoomies at the dog park), they’re content curling up in a cozy corner of your apartment.
Mastiff
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Mastiffs are giant dogs, but they are also lazy giant dogs. These gentle giants would much rather lounge on the floor (or your bed, if you let them) than run marathons. They are known for their calm demeanor, making them one of the best large breeds for apartment life. Mastiffs are also surprisingly quiet, preferring to communicate with soulful stares rather than excessive barking. They do need space to stretch out, but as long as they get a couple of short walks a day, they’ll happily snooze the rest of the time. Just be prepared for some drool—because when a Mastiff decides to shake their head, everything in your apartment is getting a free slime coating.
Saint Bernard
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Saint Bernards may be massive, but their temperament is more “giant teddy bear” than “high-energy powerhouse.” These lovable dogs are incredibly patient, relaxed, and content to just be near their humans. While they do require regular exercise, they aren’t the type to bounce off the walls, making them a great fit for apartments. One important thing to keep in mind is their sheer size—Saint Bernards take up a lot of floor space, so you might have to get creative with your furniture layout. Also, if you’re not a fan of dog hair, this might not be the breed for you. But if you’re looking for a giant cuddle buddy who’s happy to snooze in a small space, a Saint Bernard could be your perfect match.
Newfoundland
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The Newfoundland is another huge dog with a surprisingly low energy level. These gentle giants are famous for their sweet, affectionate nature and their tendency to be absolute couch dwellers. While they love water and outdoor adventures, they don’t require constant activity to stay happy. A couple of walks a day and some playtime will keep them perfectly content in an apartment setting. One thing to note: Newfoundlands shed a lot, and they have a tendency to drool, so if you’re a neat freak, this might not be the breed for you. But if you don’t mind a little extra fluff in your life, a Newfoundland will fill your apartment with love (and fur).
Irish Wolfhound
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Irish Wolfhounds may be one of the tallest dog breeds, but they are also some of the most chill dogs you’ll ever meet. These towering giants are surprisingly gentle and easygoing, making them ideal for apartment life. They don’t have high energy needs and are happy with daily walks and a comfy spot to nap. Their calm demeanor means they won’t be bouncing off the walls or barking at every little noise. The biggest challenge? Finding a dog bed big enough for them—though let’s be real, they’ll probably just steal your couch.
Bernese Mountain Dog
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Bernese Mountain Dogs are big, fluffy, and ridiculously lovable. Despite their size, they are very relaxed indoors and don’t require a ton of space to be happy. As long as they get regular walks, they are perfectly content lounging around and being close to their humans. Berners are also known for being quiet, which is a huge plus for apartment living. However, they do shed—a lot—so if you’re considering bringing one into your apartment, invest in a good vacuum. If you’re willing to deal with some extra fur, a Bernese Mountain Dog will reward you with endless love and snuggles.
Leonberger
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If you’ve ever wanted a dog that looks like a majestic lion but acts like a lovable goofball, meet the Leonberger. These giant fluffballs are incredibly gentle and affectionate, making them great apartment companions. They are calm indoors and are surprisingly adaptable to smaller spaces, as long as they get regular outdoor exercise. Leonbergers also tend to be quiet and well-mannered, which makes them ideal for apartment living. Just be prepared for some serious shedding—these dogs have a thick double coat that requires regular grooming. But if you don’t mind a little extra fluff in your life, the Leonberger is one of the best big dogs for cozy living.
Great Pyrenees
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The Great Pyrenees is a massive, fluffy guardian dog with a calm, easygoing personality. They were originally bred to guard livestock in the mountains, but these days, they’re just as happy protecting a tiny apartment (and all its snacks). While they do need daily walks, they are generally low-energy dogs who prefer lounging to running laps. One thing to consider: Great Pyrenees can be a little stubborn, so training and socialization are essential. Also, they shed like it’s their job, so be prepared for a constant layer of white fur on everything you own.
Clumber Spaniel
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Okay, so Clumber Spaniels aren’t huge, but they are technically a large breed—and they fit apartment life perfectly. These stocky, droopy-faced dogs are known for their relaxed, easygoing nature. They don’t need tons of exercise, and they are happy to spend most of the day lounging around. Clumber Spaniels are also relatively quiet and well-mannered, making them great for shared living spaces. If you want a big dog that won’t take up too much room mentally (because let’s be honest, some dogs act like they own the apartment), the Clumber Spaniel is a great choice.
Borzoi
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The Borzoi, also known as the Russian Wolfhound, is the definition of elegance wrapped in fur. With their long, slender bodies and silky coats, they look like they belong in a royal palace rather than a small apartment—but don’t be fooled by their size! These graceful giants are surprisingly well-suited for apartment life because they are incredibly laid-back. While they do enjoy a good sprint now and then, they are mostly couch potatoes who love lounging around. Borzois are also naturally quiet and reserved, making them excellent neighbors in apartment buildings. The only real challenge? Their long legs mean they’ll probably take up your entire couch, so get used to sharing your space (or just accept that you’re sitting on the floor now).
Big Dogs, Small Spaces, No Problem!
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Size isn’t the biggest factor when it comes to apartment-friendly dogs—it’s temperament. While some large breeds have boundless energy and need a yard to run, these gentle giants are perfectly content with a comfy bed, a few good walks, and lots of love. Sure, they might take up half your couch and yes, you’ll probably be vacuuming fur forever, but living with a big dog in a small space is possible. Just be ready for the occasional judgmental look when they realize your apartment doesn’t have a backyard.
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