When most people think of dogs for small homes or apartments, they immediately picture tiny lap dogs. But surprisingly, some large dog breeds can be perfectly content in smaller living spaces—if their temperament, energy level, and needs align with your lifestyle. Not all big dogs are high-strung or hyperactive. In fact, many large breeds are calm, quiet, and prefer lounging to zooming.
Here’s a look at some of the best large dog breeds that can adapt well to smaller homes:
1. Great Dane
Yes, it sounds unlikely—but Great Danes are known as “gentle giants” for a reason. Despite their towering size, they are famously laid-back and couch-loving. They don’t require as much exercise as you might expect—usually a couple of walks a day and some moderate playtime are enough. They’re also generally quiet dogs who don’t bark excessively, which is helpful if you have close neighbors.
One thing to note: they do need space to stretch out, so make sure you have enough room for a very large dog bed!
2. Greyhound
Known for their racing speed, Greyhounds are surprisingly calm and low-maintenance indoors. Once off the track, they tend to be quiet, gentle, and love nothing more than lounging on the sofa for hours. They’re often called “45-mile-per-hour couch potatoes” because they enjoy a good sprint at the dog park but then happily nap for the rest of the day.
Their slim build and polite nature make them surprisingly well-suited to apartment or small home living.
3. Bernese Mountain Dog
While they do have a thick coat and require grooming, Bernese Mountain Dogs are typically calm, affectionate, and gentle. They’re great with families and usually don’t need excessive exercise, though they do enjoy walks and time outdoors. If you live in a smaller home but have access to outdoor spaces like a park or trail, this breed could be a good fit.
Keep in mind they do shed and prefer cooler environments.
4. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a big, fluffy teddy bear of a dog. They’re calm, kind, and patient—often referred to as “nanny dogs” because of how well they get along with children. While they are large and require regular grooming, they’re not overly active. A daily walk and a bit of affection are often enough to keep a Newfoundland happy.
They’re also typically quiet, which makes them better neighbors in close-quarters living.
5. Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds are among the tallest dog breeds, but they are surprisingly calm and adaptable indoors. They are gentle, easygoing, and friendly, with low indoor activity levels. A secure outdoor space or daily walk is ideal, but they don’t demand constant stimulation like some smaller, high-energy breeds.
Their size means you’ll need to manage space wisely, but temperament-wise, they’re often better suited to small homes than you’d think.
Final Thoughts
If you’re drawn to big dogs but live in a smaller home, don’t worry—it’s not about square footage alone. Many large breeds are calm, quiet, and adaptable, making them excellent companions even in cozy spaces. With daily walks, affection, and thoughtful setup, these gentle giants can thrive right alongside you, no matter the size of your home.
