Looking for avenues to make staying at home more fun? As the number of known COVID-19 cases increases, we can make our homes a bit more comforting by adopting a dog to share our space.
May is National Pet Month, and the American Kennel Club (AKC) has a list of the best canines for apartments — breeds with high energy that don’t require lots of outdoor playtime. To aid in this endeavor, the Bissell Pet Foundation is running an Empty the Shelters promotion. People can adopt a pet for $25, and the foundation will sponsor the remainder of the adoption fees. (The reduced adoption fees run May 9-17. All adoptions will be facilitated by appointment only.)
According to the AKC, these breeds are but a handful of the varieties that work well in small living quarters. Get ready for the cuteness.
Cavalier King Charles spaniel
This breed is known to live for 12 to 15 years and is affectionate, gentle and graceful.
Shih tzu
This breed’s temperament is affectionate, playful and outgoing, and it lives 10 to 18 years.
Chihuahua
Averaging 5 to 8 inches tall, this breed lives 14 to 16 years and is considered sassy, graceful and charming.
Bulldog
This canine breed’s temperament is friendly, courageous and calm. Its life expectancy ranges from eight to 10 years.
Keeshond
This breed’s life expectancy is 12 to 15 years, and it is considered friendly, lively and outgoing.
Pug
Pugs may be considered a bit mischievous, but they are also charming and loving. Their life expectancy is 13 to 15 years.
Greyhound
This noble breed of dog is gentle and independent, and it tends to live 10 to 13 years.
Whippet
This breed is affectionate, playful and calm, per the AKC, and it lives 12 to 15 years.
American Eskimo dog
This breed comes in toy, mini and standard sizes; it’s 9 to 19 inches tall and is considered playful, perky and smart.
Bichon frise
This fluffy breed is thought to be playful, curious and peppy. The canine’s life expectancy is 14 to 15 years, according to the AKC.
Australian terrier
This dog breed’s temperament is said to be affectionate, courageous and spirited. Its life expectancy is 11 to 15 years.
Affenpinscher
This breed’s temperament is considered funny, fearless and confident, and it lives 12 to 15 years.