If you currently live in major city you are probably already aware of the many unique challenges of urban living.

It is these very challenges that make it difficult to select the right pet to keep you company in that lovely downtown condo or apartment. This is especially true for dog lovers as certain breeds of dog are not as adaptable to city life as others. While dogs may be our best friends they are still animals, and that means the city is probably a bit out of their comfort zone. Here are ten dogs that are happy living in the city, and that make great companions for urban dwellers.

10. Dachshund

I know, I know–this one seems like a no-brainer, right? Dachshunds were originally bred for hunting weasels and badgers, but these days the little guys love nothing more than to cuddle and play with small lengths of rope and other chew toys. It is, in fact, this very attachment to humans that make dachshunds such great city pets. In addition to being small and not taking up much space (important for apartment living) these little guys are pretty much happy to be wherever you are!

9. Corgi

Corgis are great city dogs for much the same reasons that dachshunds are; they are small, loyal, and not given to a great deal of wanderlust. Corgis are also intelligent and people-friendly meaning that you can walk them down a sidewalk without fear of them becoming anxious or aggressive.

8. Yorkshire Terrier

Like most terriers the Yorkshire can be little bit fussy from time to time, but this breed is actually quite good for city living. Its affectionate personality and innate friendliness make it a great pet for city living. Also, like most Terriers, the Yorkshire Terrier is one of the healthiest dogs boasting an exceptional immune system for a dog of its size. This is good since city dogs are generally more susceptible to contagious conditions such as the “dog flu”.

7. Pugs

Pugs are another obvious choice for this list. They are small, but feisty and will provide any lucky pet parent with hours of fun and affection.

6. English Bulldogs

English bulldogs are good city pets because they are home bodies. They tend to occupy a given space and can even become a bit territorial. They are friendly dogs who will likely take a shine to your friends and neighbors; lighting up everyone’s day with their boisterous personalities. It should be noted however that both English bulldogs and pugs are susceptible to certain genetic ailments, so while they are great city dogs, they may not be the best dogs for first time pet owners.

5. German Shepherds

German Shepherds are good city dogs because of their high level of adaptability, even though this might be counter-intuitive. They are quite calm and very friendly when properly trained. If you do adopt a German Shepard, just be sure to walk it regularly as they need plenty of fresh air and exercise to be happy in small city living quarters.

4. Great Danes

Great Danes may seem like the most unlikely choice for this list due to their size and level of energy, but these dogs prove great city pets for pretty much the same reason English Bulldogs do, they’re homebodies at heart!

3. Standard Poodles

Standard Poodles are pretty much the trifecta of great city dogs; small, human-centric, and known for their good health. If your looking for a city dog, you probably won’t be able to do much better than the Standard Poodle.

2. Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers are not too terribly different from their relatives the Yorkshire Terriers. They may require a bit of training and soothing during times of high noise levels, but for the most part these are fine dogs for city living.

1. Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso is a lovely breed of dog originating from Tibet. If you’ve never seen one do yourself a favor and search google images. These lovely dogs would make fine and fashionable companions for life in the city!

This list is just the tip of the iceberg. There are numerous breeds of dogs which are adaptable, if not naturally given to, city living. Think about mini dog breeds, but don’t limit your consideration to little dogs, as this list shows. Consult with your local veterinarian or animal shelter for more information.

by Catalogs.com Info Guru Lauren DeJesus-Glasgow