Imagine living with a dog that barks less. Peace fills your home, your neighbours stay happy, and your dog becomes the perfect companion.
For many people, a noisy pet can make apartment living stressful or disturb family routines. That’s why finding tiny dog breeds that enjoy quietness can be such a blessing.
But are there really small dogs that stay calm and peaceful instead of barking at every little sound?
The answer is yes—and they can be just as affectionate, loyal, and playful as their more vocal counterparts.
Excessive barking is one of the most common behavior challenges owners face, especially in apartments where noise can become a serious issue. That’s why finding a calm breed that rarely barks is so important.
This guide will help you discover some of the best quiet dog breeds that are well-suited for apartment life, families, or anyone who simply enjoys peace at home. From cuddly companions to elegant lap dogs, these small dogs prove that silence can be golden.
Tiny Dog Breeds Who Enjoy Quietness
Here we go, one by one.
1. Pug
Ever met a dog that snores louder than it barks?
That’s the adorable charm of the Pug.
Known for its wrinkled face and round body, this little pup is a true entertainer who also happens to be one of the quietest dog breeds.
Pugs are small dogs with big personalities. They are generally calm and prefer spending time close to their owners instead of running around making noise. They are well known for being extremely attached to their owners. They can develop separation anxiety if left alone often.
While some dogs bark at every sound near the door, Pugs usually stay relaxed, which makes them excellent for apartment life. They are also a very affectionate breed, often sticking to people like shadows, which adds comfort and companionship.
Despite being playful, this is a quiet breed that tends to bark rarely. They’d much rather nap, cuddle, or wait patiently for food than waste energy on barking unnecessarily.
Families love them because they are gentle, affectionate, and blend perfectly with both children and other animals. Their peaceful nature makes them one of the most perfect apartment dogs for people who want love without loudness.
Fun Fact:
They were once the royal pets of Chinese emperors, living in palaces and enjoying luxury lives. Today, they continue to enjoy being pampered in modern homes.
Unique Features:
Small size, ideal for apartment dwellers.
Gentle and loving with families and kids.
Known for snorts and snores instead of sharp barking.
A true companion dog that enjoys human presence.
Adaptable to different environments, from houses to city apartments.
2. Japanese Chin
What if your dog acted more like a cat than a puppy?
That’s the quirky and lovable Japanese Chin.
With a graceful step and a playful sparkle in its eyes, this breed is both elegant and amusing, often surprising people with its unique personality.
The Japanese Chin is a tiny dog breed that enjoys quietness, often described as a little comedian that knows when to be calm. They don’t generally bark much, preferring to express themselves through soft sounds or even a funny sneeze-like noise. Because of their calm personality, they are an ideal apartment dog, bringing joy without disturbing neighbours or families.
Japanese Chin is quiet and thrives in peaceful environments. They enjoy companionship and love being close to their owners, but they also have moments of independent play that make them easy to manage. Their gentle nature makes them a wonderful companion dog, especially for people who want affection without constant barking.
Fun Fact:
The Japanese Chin was once considered so noble in Japan that they were given as gifts to foreign dignitaries, including Queen Alexandra of England, who adored them in the 19th century.
Unique Features:
A breed that may make a unique sound instead of barking.
Small, graceful, and perfect for apartment.
Adaptable and affectionate, making them great with families.
A companion dog that enjoys both cuddles and calm independence.
3. English Toy Spaniel
Looking for a dog that would rather cuddle than cause a scene?
The charming English Toy Spaniel is exactly that.
With soulful eyes and a soft, silky coat, this little breed is all about love and calmness.
The English Toy Spaniel is one of the most quiet dog breeds, making it a favorite for people who want peace at home. Unlike dogs that bark at every sound, this pup is and enjoys a slow-paced lifestyle.
They are especially well-suited for apartments, where noise levels matter. Their gentle nature and loyal personality make them a loving breed that bonds closely with their owners.
Because they are a rarely noisy breed, English Toy Spaniels often make great apartment dogs for seniors, singles, or families who want a loving companion without constant barking. They enjoy short walks, cozy naps, and being part of daily life, making them easy to manage even in busy environments.
Fun Fact:
The English Toy Spaniel was a favorite of King Charles I and King Charles II of England, so much so that the breed is often nicknamed the “Charlies” in honor of their royal admirers.
Unique Features:
A quiet breed that tends to rarely bark.
Perfect size for apartment dwellers and city homes.
Extremely gentle and loving with families.
Prefers cuddling and companionship over high-energy play.
Loyal, calm, and sensitive to their owners’ presence.
4. Shih Tzu
Ever wished for a dog that’s more into snuggles than noise?
Meet the adorable Shih Tzu, a little lion dog with a big heart.
Famous for their flowing soft coat and warm personality, Shih Tzus are companions that bring peace rather than chaos.
The Shih Tzu is one of the most quiet dog breeds, making it a favorite among apartment dwellers. These small dogs are calm and known for their affectionate personality.
While some dogs bark at every passing stranger, Shih Tzus are usually content to stay close to their owners or curl up for a nap. This makes them perfect for families, seniors, and anyone seeking a companion dog that doesn’t disturb the neighbours.
Even though they enjoy short bursts of play, they are not an energetic breed that needs endless activity. Instead, they thrive on companionship, cuddles, and being part of daily life. Their ability to remain less noisy makes them excellent apartment dogs, especially in busy environments where peace is important.
Fun Fact:
Wikipedia states that the Shih Tzu was bred as a palace pet for Chinese royalty, earning the title “small lion dog” for their majestic appearance.
Unique Features:
A quiet breed that tends to bark rarely.
Known for a long, silky soft coat that requires grooming.
Affectionate and loyal, making them great family dogs.
Adaptable to both apartments and larger houses.
Gentle personality with a strong desire for human companionship.
5. Maltese
What’s better than a fluffy ball of love that barely makes a sound?
The elegant Maltese is one of those tiny dog breeds that enjoy quietness, making life calmer for both singles and families. With their silky white coat and gentle nature, they are a classic example of a quiet dog who thrives on affection rather than noise.
The Maltese is not just a pretty face; they are also among the quiet dog breeds perfect for apartment life. While some small dogs have a reputation for being yappy, this calm dog is quiet and prefers sitting close to their owners rather than chasing every sound.
Their calm personality makes them a great choice for people who want peace while still enjoying the joys of having a loving companion dog.
This breed is also friendly with families and adapts well to different environments. They don’t need to be guard dogs or loud barkers — instead, they shine as gentle, devoted pets who bring warmth into any household.
Fun Fact:
According to PetMD, the Maltese has been cherished for over 2,000 years, often kept by noble families in ancient Rome as symbols of luxury and loyalty.
Unique Features:
Known as one of the quietest toy breeds.
Silky white coat that looks elegant with regular grooming.
Gentle and affectionate, especially with families.
Perfect for apartments and smaller spaces.
Loves being a lap dog and staying close to owners.
6. Affenpinscher
Ever wanted a dog that looks like a little monkey but behaves like a calm companion?
That’s the Affenpinscher, a quirky yet surprisingly quiet dog breed.
Despite their comical expressions and wiry coats, these pups are not overly vocal, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking for tiny dog breeds who enjoy quietness without giving up on personality. They are low-maintenance pups, and their short coat only needs weekly brushing.
Though small in size, the Affenpinscher carries a big heart. They love staying close to their owners, often following them from room to room like a loyal shadow.
Unlike some small dogs that bark excessively, Affenpinschers are natyrally quiet, choosing to speak up only when it really matters. This makes them a great fit for apartment or homes where peace and calm are a priority.
Fun Fact:
The Affenpinscher is nicknamed the “Monkey Dog” because of its curious face and playful expressions.
Unique Features:
Quiet personality despite a bold, confident nature.
Monkey-like face that gives them a unique charm.
Sturdy for their size, making them playful but not overwhelming.
Loyal companion who loves being near their owners.
Adaptable to both apartments and family life.
7. Biewer Terrier
What if you could have a little pup that looks like living art but stays wonderfully calm at home?
The Biewer Terrier is exactly that — elegant, affectionate, and one of the tiny dog breeds that enjoy quietness.
With their long, flowing coat and sweet temperament, they stand out as both a showpiece and a gentle companion dog.
Unlike many small dogs that bark at every sound, the Biewer Terrier is generally quiet and content to spend time with their owners. They love being part of a family, whether it’s relaxing on the couch or joining in on short walks.
Because of their easygoing personality, they’re especially well-suited for apartment living, where too much barking could disturb neighbors. They are extremely intelligent and easy to train, although potty training can be a little tough.
Fun Fact:
The Biewer Terrier is a relatively new breed, officially recognised by the AKC in 2021, making it one of the newest additions to the toy group.
Unique Features:
Calm and quiet, unlike many vocal toy breeds.
Beautiful tri-colored coat that’s silky and long.
Naturally cheerful, bringing joy without loud barking.
They love to bond closely with their owners.
Small, adaptable, and perfect for apartments.
Conclusion
Living with a dog doesn’t have to mean living with constant barking.
The breeds we explored — from the calm Pug to the elegant Biewer Terrier — prove that some tiny dog breeds that enjoy quietness can bring love, joy, and companionship without the noise.
Whether you live in a busy apartment, a family home, or simply want a quiet dog to share peaceful moments with, these small yet charming pups can make life calmer and happier.
Choosing the right companion means finding a balance between personality and lifestyle.
By welcoming one of these quiet dog breeds into your home, you’re not just gaining a pet—you’re gaining a loyal friend who makes your everyday life a little more serene.
