5 Miniature Dogs Great for Apartment Life

If you love dogs but live in an apartment, you might be reluctant about getting one. That's a big mistake; certain dogs are naturally geared towards apartment life and can thrive in small spaces. You just need to know which ones to bring home. So, if you're interested, here are 5 miniature breeds that you'll want to check out.

English Toy Spaniel. These dogs stand about 10 inches tall and weigh between 9 and 12 pounds. They are marked by the traditional long, feathered, Spaniel ears, pug nose and large, soft eyes. Their demeanor is happy, playful and sweet. English Toy Spaniels are excellent companion dogs for older children and adults. Although relatively inactive, expect to walk them daily. Also, be careful to keep them in mild temperatures that will not aggravate their respiratory system. Life span? 10 to 12 years.

French Bulldog. This breed of bulldog is pear-shaped with a pug nose, powerful muzzle and bat-like ears. They are smaller than the traditional bulldog standing only 12 inches heigh and weighing up to 28 pounds. They have friendly, playful, comical temperaments and are great companions for older, mild-mannered children and adults. Some slobber and hunt mice. They are also very active, but don't require a yard. Be sure to walk them daily. Expect this breed to be friendly to strangers and other dogs. Watch out for eye and respiratory issues. Also, these dogs suffer in the heat, so keep them cool and in mild temperatures. Life span? 10 to 12 years.

Australian Terrier. The Australian Terrier is the smallest of the Terrier-breed. These dogs are sturdy, short-legged and hairy with piercing, small eyes. In size, they stand from 9 to 11 inches heigh and weigh between 9 and 14 pounds. This spirited dog is curious, brave and loyal. Terriers do well with children (as long as they are not teased) and adults. They are friendly with strangers and other dogs. They are also healthy. So, don't expect a high vet bill. Life span? 15 or more years.

Italian Greyhound. These Greyhounds are svelte with long necks, dark noses and a thin head. Italian Greyhounds grow at max to 15 inches in height and 10 pounds in weight. They have pliable, gentle personalities and thrive with children with the similar demeanor. If you have a stress-filled household, these dogs are not for you. Prepare to walk them daily. These Greyhounds don't enjoy the cold. They thrive in mild weather. Health-wise, they are hardy except in the area of the bone. They tend to break them easily. Life span? 12 to 15 years.

Kyi-Leo. This dog is my favorite. Kyi-leo's are furry, with large heads, soft dark eyes, short legs and sturdy mid-sections. They stand up to 12 inches high and weigh up to 14 pounds. In general, Kyi-Leo's have warm, playful temperaments. Although family-friendly, these dogs may not warm up to strangers. So, you will want to introduce them to a variety of sounds and social situations early. It is also believed by some that they are prone to slipped Patellas which require surgery. However, this is a debatable subject. Walk them daily and also groom them regularly since their fur is apt to matt. Life span? 12 to 14 years.

Figure out which dog you want yet? Pick your dog wisely. Whichever one you choose will live with you for a long time and even move along from apartment to apartment or apartment to home. For more information on dog breeds that live well in apartments, go to www.dogbreedinfo.com.