7 Amazing Quiet Dog Breeds for Relaxed Living in Apartments

7 Amazing Quiet Dog Breeds for Relaxed Living in Apartments

Peaceful homes deserve calm paws, soft snores, and dogs who know how to chill.

Life already feels loud. Traffic. Phones. Work stress. The last thing anyone wants is nonstop barking at home. That is where calm dog breeds step in and save the day. These dogs fit beautifully into slow mornings, cozy nights, and relaxed daily life.

Quiet dog breeds are not boring. That myth needs to go. These dogs bring love, humor, and deep connection without turning your home into a noise festival. Sounds crazy, right? But wait, there’s more!

Some dogs thrive in calm environments. They enjoy short walks, long naps, and deep bonds with favorite humans. They are ideal for apartment dwellers, retired folks, families, and even active pet parents who want peace after busy days.

Below are seven dog breeds known for their quiet nature, low energy needs, and gentle hearts. Each breed has its own personality. Each one brings something special to a peaceful home. Let’s meet them.

Amazing Quiet Dog Breeds for Relaxed Living

1. Pekingese

Pekingese

The Pekingese walks into a room like royalty and then naps like a champ.

This breed was originally bred to live in Chinese palaces. That history shows. The Pekingese prefers calm spaces and soft routines.

Loud chaos is not the vibe here. This quiet dog enjoys observing the world from a cozy spot, often perched like a tiny lion on a cushion.

Despite the royal attitude, this is a deeply affectionate dog. The Pekingese bonds closely with pet owners and often chooses one favorite human.

Pekingese Profile

That bond feels personal and strong. These dogs do not crave constant attention, but they do love being near their people. That quiet presence brings comfort in daily life.

Low energy fits this breed perfectly. Short daily walks and light play indoors are enough. Big adventures are not required. That makes this breed well-suited for apartment living and calm households.

Big barkers usually steal the spotlight, but this breed stays cool and collected.

Why the Pekingese Feels Special

  • Naturally calm demeanor indoors

  • Minimal exercise needs

  • Loyal companion dogs with a gentle spirit

2. Whippet

Whippet

The Whippet looks fast, but at home, this dog becomes pure couch magic.

Many people get confused by this breed. Yes, Whippets come from racing dogs. Some even connect them with retired racing greyhounds. But here’s the good part.

Once indoors, they transform into full-time couch potatoes. It gets even better, though, because they stay quiet while doing it.

Whippet Profile

This quiet dog thrives in peaceful homes. Whippets enjoy short bursts of play followed by long naps. They love soft blankets, warm laps, and calm routines.

Loud homes stress them out. Calm environments help them feel safe and relaxed.

Despite the athletic look, this is a low-energy dog at heart. Moderate exercise outside, paired with lots of rest, keeps them happy. Their gentle demeanor makes them ideal companions for individuals seeking a calm temperament without sacrificing affection.

Whippet Calm Highlights

  • Short bursts of energy, then total chill

  • Quiet nature indoors

  • Deeply affectionate with favorite humans

3. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu

The shih tzu was born to be close, calm, and full of charm.

This breed was created to be a lap dog. That purpose still shines today. A shih tzu loves peaceful homes, soft voices, and relaxed schedules.

These dogs enjoy being near people without demanding nonstop action. They are not big barkers, which makes them perfect for apartment residents.

Affection runs deep here. This breed bonds closely with family members and often acts like a tiny shadow.

Shih Tzu Profile

But why bother with constant chaos when cuddles exist? These dogs prefer slow mornings and cozy evenings over loud play.

Low energy fits the Shih Tzu lifestyle beautifully. Daily walks are short and sweet. Mental stimulation through gentle play keeps boredom away.

Positive reinforcement training works well because this breed responds to kindness, not pressure.

Shih Tzu Calm Traits

  • Even-tempered and affectionate

  • Thrives in apartment living

  • Naturally quiet and relaxed

4. French Bulldog

French Bulldog

French bulldogs prove that calm dogs can still be hilarious.

According to AKC, this breed is known for expressive faces, funny sounds, and big personalities packed into small bodies. Despite the clown energy, French bulldogs are surprisingly quiet. Barking is rare. Snoring, however, is a different story. Fair warning.

These dogs fit beautifully into peaceful homes. They enjoy being close to people and often bond closely with their humans.

French Bulldog Profile

French bulldogs love calm routines and soft spaces. Too much noise or activity can overwhelm them.

Low energy levels define this breed. Short daily walks and indoor play keep them content. Minimal exercise needs make them a perfect match for apartment dwellers and calm households.

These dogs are affectionate, loyal, and very aware of emotions around them.

French Bulldog Fun Facts

  • Quiet but expressive communication

  • Low energy and relaxed indoors

  • Deeply affectionate companion dogs

5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel brings softness into every room.

This breed feels like emotional comfort wrapped in fur. Cavaliers are known for a calm disposition and loving nature.

They are quiet dog breeds that prefer harmony over chaos. Loud homes can stress them out, while peaceful homes help them shine.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Profile

Affection comes naturally here. These dogs love gentle cuddles and bonding moments. They often act as nanny dogs around children due to their even-tempered nature.

Their calm demeanor helps create a peaceful home for everyone involved.

Exercise needs stay moderate. Daily walks and light play sessions keep them balanced. Positive reinforcement training works wonders, as this breed is highly trainable and eager to please.

They adapt well to other pets, including cats, when introduced gently.

Cavalier Comfort Qualities

  • Gentle demeanor and loving heart

  • Quiet presence indoors

  • Ideal companions for calm families

6. Pug

Pug

Pugs are proof that quiet dogs can still be full of personality.

This breed thrives on human connection. Pugs love being part of daily life, whether that means sitting nearby or following their people around the house.

Despite the playful nature, barking stays minimal. These dogs prefer attention through closeness, not noise.

Low energy defines the pug lifestyle. Long walks are not required. Short strolls and indoor play suit them best.

Pug Profile

This low-energy dog enjoys rest just as much as play, making them perfect companions for relaxed homes.

As per PetMD, pugs are affectionate and often form strong bonds with pet owners. They enjoy calm routines and predictable schedules.

Positive reinforcement keeps training fun and stress-free. Their calm temperament helps create a peaceful home vibe.

Pug Personality Notes

  • Quiet and people-focused

  • Low energy with big affection

  • Thrives in apartment living

7. Glen of Imaal Terrier

Glen of Imaal Terrier

The Glen of Imaal Terrier breaks every noisy terrier stereotype.

Unlike many terriers, this breed stays calm and thoughtful. Originally bred for farm work, the Glen learned to work quietly. That trait remains strong today.

This quiet dog rarely barks without reason, which feels refreshing.

These dogs carry a steady, calm demeanor indoors. They enjoy relaxing near family members and prefer calm environments.

Glen of Imaal Terrier Profile

While sturdy in build, they are not high-energy. Moderate exercise and mental stimulation keep them content.

WebMD notes that the Glen bonds closely with humans and adapts well to other dogs and other pets when socialized early. Training works best with positive reinforcement and patience.

Their peaceful nature helps maintain a peaceful home without constant noise.

Glen of Imaal Calm Strengths

  • Naturally quiet temperament

  • Low energy indoors

  • Loyal and deeply connected

Conclusion

Choosing the right dog changes everything.

Certain breeds naturally bring calm into a home. These dogs do not scream for attention or turn daily life into chaos. They sit quietly beside you. They nap. They love deeply.

And here’s the best part! They make peace feel normal.

Every dog is an individual dog with its own personality. Training, environment, and love shape behavior. Still, choosing from calm dog breeds gives a strong head start toward a peaceful home.

Whether the goal is apartment living, a quieter space, or a perfect pup to relax with, these dog breeds offer comfort, affection, and calm energy. That sounds like a pretty great best life, right?

Fenric Hale
Fenric Hale is a seasoned writer and a dedicated Animal Support Technician with years of experience caring for animals. Known for his calm, practical approach and steady patience, Fenric is always ready to lend a helping hand — whether he's giving medication, restocking supplies, or comforting a nervous pup during a vet visit. He has a natural connection with high-energy dogs and takes pride in turning tense, chaotic moments into calm and reassuring ones. At home, Fenric shares his days (and plenty of snacks) with his retired greyhound, Olive — his loyal shadow and favorite nap companion.