Apartment-Friendly Dogs for Hiking & Backpacking in Denver

Denver is a haven for outdoor lovers… and their dogs!

With the towering Front Range of the Rocky Mountains as a backdrop, there’s no shortage of scenic trails and outdoor adventures.

Popular spots like Red Rocks Park, Mount Falcon Park and Cherry Creek State Park offer dog-friendly trails where pups can explore nature alongside their owners. Many of these trails range from easy strolls to challenging climbs, so there’s something for every fitness level. 

For those seeking more rugged experiences, nearby national forests like Arapaho and Roosevelt allow for multi-day backpacking trips where you can explore to your heart’s content and camp under the stars. Just be sure to check leash laws and trail rules, as some areas require dogs to stay leashed for safety and wildlife protection.

For water-loving dogs, there are plenty of opportunities to splash and cool off along the way. Trails near Bear Creek Lake Park and Boulder Reservoir feature dog-friendly beaches and water access points — perfect for a post-hike swim!  Adventure seekers can also hike to alpine lakes like Saint Mary’s Glacier, where you can dip your toes in the icy water and explore with your dog in peace and quiet.

Beyond hiking, Denver offers access to off-leash dog parks, such as Cherry Creek Dog Park, where pups can run free in large, open spaces. With mild weather, stunning views and trails of all difficulty levels, the Denver area really is a dream destination for dog owners who crave outdoor adventures.

If you live in our luxury Denver apartments and are looking to introduce an adventure-loving dog into your space, then here’s all you need to know about choosing the right pup for your apartment-living and outdoor-loving lifestyle!

What to look for in a good hiking & backpacking dog

Characteristics of a good hiking dog

A great hiking dog isn’t just one that can keep up with you on a long trek — although that’s a trait that definitely makes it easier. There’s more to it than stamina alone, though, so if you’re hoping to hit the trails with a furry companion, here are some key characteristics to keep in mind. 

• Stamina
• Temperament
• Age
• Coat

Stamina

If you’re planning to hike for miles, you’ll want a dog that can actually keep up, so high energy and stamina are must-haves if you’re wanting to do some serious adventuring. Working dog breeds (like Sheepdogs, Greyhounds or Sighthounds) are known for their endurance since they were bred to do tough jobs in challenging weather, so they’ve got the toughness literally bred into their DNA. In all honesty, you might find yourself getting tired before they do!

But here’s the thing: no dog is born trail-ready — no matter how energetic. Even the most active of pups need time to build up to long hikes, so don’t expect your dog to crush a 10-mile trail right out of the gate just because they're a sheepdog — a well-trained and hike-veteran Yorkie may be better suited to it! Small dogs can have just as much (if not more) energy and stamina than larger dogs, so don’t count them out on account of their size!

Temperament

Energy is one thing, but temperament is just as important. A calm, obedient dog that listens to commands makes for a much smoother hike (as well as a safer one!). Proper obedience can mean the difference between life and death for your dog, so they must be able to follow commands like “leave-it,” “stay,” “come here” and the like. Whether it’s bears, cougars, poisonous berries or other dogs, your best friend needs a trail temperament that allows them to be safe.

But don’t worry — even more stubborn or independent-minded dogs can become great hiking buddies with the right type of training. Of course, breed tendencies play a role, but each dog is unique. Training is key, and if you’re a first-time dog owner, you may want to consider breeds that are known to be more cooperative and easier to train.

Age

Dogs, like people, also have different hiking abilities at different stages of life. Puppies have all the energy in the world but lack the stamina to keep it up for long. Adult dogs, especially healthy and fit ones, are usually in their prime hiking years and will probably outlast you on the trail!

Older dogs start to slow down with age (just like we do). They might still love a scenic stroll, but long, rugged hikes could be too much for their bodies to handle, despite . When planning a hike, think about your dog’s age, energy level, and overall health. Tailor the adventure to suit their abilities so it’s fun for both of you.

Coat

Finally, a dog’s fur and hair can be worthwhile to take into account. 

Short-haired dogs are low-maintenance when it comes to grooming out sand, dirt and seeds picked up along hikes, and they’ll handle warm weather better than their fluffier counterparts. The downside is that they’ll really feel the chill in colder weather. If you’re planning hikes in cool or wet conditions, a dog coat will be essential for cohort-haired dogs.

On the flip side, long-haired dogs are naturally built for colder weather. Their thick coats keep them warm and dry, but they do need regular grooming to avoid tangles and mat (especially after hiking in the snow or mud!). Keep in mind that those same cozy coats can cause them to overheat in warmer weather, so plan accordingly.

Characteristics of an apartment-suited dog

Okay, so we know the characteristics of outdoorsy dogs. Now, let's go over the characteristics of apartment-friendly dogs. Once we’ve got those, we can find the perfect balance of the two!

Dogs best suited for apartment living are typically small to medium-sized, have low to moderate energy levels, are quiet with minimal barking, adapt well to confined spaces and require relatively little exercise; breeds like French Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, Yorkshire Terriers and Pugs often fit this description well. 

Key characteristics to look for in an apartment dog:

• Small size: Smaller dogs take up less space and are generally less disruptive in an apartment setting. 
• Low energy levels: Breeds with low energy needs require less extensive walks and playtime, making them suitable for apartment life. 
• Quiet demeanor: Dogs with a tendency to bark excessively can be problematic for neighbors. 
• Adaptability: A dog that can adjust to a smaller living space and various stimuli within an apartment building. 
• Good with other pets and people: Consider if your dog will need to interact with other animals or people in the building. 
• Trainability: A dog that is easy to train can be better managed in a confined space. 
• Minimal shedding: Breeds with low shedding are easier to maintain in an apartment.

There you have it! Even if you’re not much of an outdoorsy person, this can sure come in handy when picking out your next four-legged roommate!

Dog breeds suited for both apartment living and outdoor adventure

Now that we understand the characteristics of outdoorsy, hike-friendly dogs as well as apartment-friendly dogs, we can ask the real question: is there a dog that fits both the bills?

The answer is: yes! 

Ultimately, each dog’s personality is what determines its ability to both lounge on a couch and go on a hike, regardless of the genetics. A dog could theoretically be the perfect adventure buddy on paper according to its breed and size, but in reality it could hate hiking more than anything. Bottom line — it all comes down to the dog itself, so take into account a dog’s personality before making any decision about its suitability to your lifestyle. This is where going the foster animal route can really come in handy before making any big decisions!

That being said, there are a few dog breeds that have, historically, possessed both the qualities of an apartment dog and an adventure dog. 

Cocker spaniels

These sweet pups are easy going indoors and can easily settle down into an apartment routine. They’re just as happy outdoors and love to be active, and their easy-to-train personality makes them a good choice for sharing the trail with others.

A fair warning, however: their coats are longer than most so you’ll need to give them a good brushing after a hike!

Labrador retrievers

Labradors are the ultimate adventure companions thanks to their energy, stamina and love for exploration. Originally bred to retrieve game, they thrive on a variety of trails and water crossings alike. Back at home, Labs are adaptable, friendly and easy to train, making them perfect for apartment living. As long as they get daily exercise, they’re happy to relax indoors.

German shorthaired pointer

German Shorthaired Pointers are high-energy, agile and natural-born athletes. Their hunting background makes them excellent trail partners, and they respond well to training, which is a plus for both on- and off-leash hikes. They do well in apartments as long as they have regular physical and mental stimulation, and their medium size and intelligent nature make them a great fit for active city dwellers.

Whippets

Whippets are speedy sprinters but surprisingly laid-back companions. On hikes, they move with grace and ease and can handle moderate trails without issue. At home, they’re famous for being "couch potatoes" and are content to lounge quietly for hours. 

Greyhounds

Despite their racing history, Greyhounds are gentle, fairly lazy and love a good nap. They have the agility for light to moderate hiking and can navigate trails well, while at home they’re known for being calm, quiet and low-maintenance. As long as they get daily walks or outdoor time, they’re perfectly happy to lounge in small apartments.

Miniature American Shepherds

Miniature American Shepherds are small but mighty adventurers. They have the drive and energy of their larger Australian Shepherd relatives, making them agile and ready for hiking trails. Their smaller size is ideal for apartments, however, and they’re incredibly trainable and adaptable to indoor living. Regular exercise and mental stimulation keep them happy in both environments!

Australian Terrier

The Australian Terrier may be small, but it’s built for adventure! These tough little dogs love to explore and can handle rugged trails with happiness. Their small size makes them a natural fit for apartments, while their independent yet loyal nature means they’re happy to relax at home after a good walk. 

Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dogs are strong, steady hikers with a love for cool-weather trails, and their thick coats and powerful bodies make them well-suited for long hikes in chilly conditions. Despite their large size, they’re calm, gentle and great at relaxing indoors. As long as they get daily exercise, they’re happy to lounge with their family in a smaller apartment.

These breeds prove you don’t have to choose between adventure and apartment living. From the energetic Labrador to the laid-back Greyhound, each of these dogs can thrive in both worlds with the right care and exercise. 

Good luck!

Pin it!

Featured photo by Valeriia Miller on Unsplash