Finding the right dog for your lifestyle is key, especially if you’re looking for a small, quiet companion. Whether you live in a cozy apartment or just prefer a serene environment, certain dog breeds are better suited for quieter households.
Small dogs, in particular, can offer the perfect combination of cuddly companionship without being overly loud or demanding.
While many small breeds are known for their spirited energy and occasional barking, there are plenty of breeds that are naturally more reserved and tranquil. These dogs tend to have a calm temperament, making them excellent choices for those seeking a peaceful, low-maintenance pet.
In this guide, we’ll highlight the best small, quiet dog breeds that are perfect for homes where peace and calm are a priority. Whether you’re new to dog ownership or simply searching for a quieter breed, these pups will bring joy to your life without disrupting your quiet space.
Best Small Quiet Dog Breeds
1. Pekingese
The Pekingese boasts an impressive lineage that dates back to ancient China, believed to have been bred for royalty as early as A.D. 700.
By the 1800s, they became the cherished companions of the Chinese imperial court, only to capture Queen Victoria’s heart after surviving the British invasion of Peking in 1860, as per Britannica.
Personality: Dignified Yet Quiet
Pekingese are known for their regal and dignified demeanor, often walking with an air of aloofness. Despite their compact size, they are surprisingly alert and will bark with a surprisingly deep voice when they sense a threat.
This independent breed thrives on human companionship but tends to be reserved with strangers, making them more of a quiet companion than an exuberant playmate.
Training: Patience is Key
Training a Pekingese requires creativity and patience. While they are intelligent, their stubborn nature makes them one of the more challenging breeds to teach.
Keep consistent training sessions short and positive, focusing on their strengths, and you’ll find a loyal companion who thrives on attention and affection.
Fun Fact: The Pekingese was once so revered that it was considered a crime to steal one from the emperor’s court – punishable by death!
2. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog, often affectionately called a “Frenchie,” has its roots in 19th-century England, where it was bred as a miniature Bulldog. The breed gained popularity in France, where it became a favorite of Parisian workers and artists.
These lovable dogs quickly charmed their way into urban life, becoming icons of city living, adored for their affectionate nature and unmistakable bat-like ears.
Playful, Affectionate, and Quiet
Despite their compact size, French Bulldogs are full of personality. They’re affectionate, playful, and tend to form strong bonds with their families. Known for their quiet nature, Frenchies don’t generally bark unnecessarily, making them ideal companions for those seeking a calm, low-noise pet.
While they’re social and outgoing, they’re also perfectly content curling up with their family members for a nap.
Keep It Fun and Positive
Training a French Bulldog is best done with positive reinforcement, as they thrive on games and rewards. They enjoy learning, especially when training feels like play, but can be a bit stubborn if things become too repetitive.
Though they’re eager to please, Frenchies can lose interest if training isn’t engaging.
Fun Fact: The French Bulldog’s signature bat ears are not only adorable but serve an important function; they help improve their hearing, making them excellent at picking up sounds from a distance!
3. Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin is an ancient breed, with roots tracing back to China and later refined in Japan. Bred as a companion dog for nobility, these regal pets were once so treasured that theft could be punishable by death! Gifted between royal families, they became symbols of elegance and status.
Personality: Graceful Yet Playful
The Japanese Chin’s personality strikes a perfect balance between refinement and fun. While they are gentle, affectionate, and highly devoted to their families, they can be reserved around strangers.
Though small in stature, their presence is anything but insignificant, bringing joy and laughter wherever they go, as per Hill’s Pet.
Bright, Independent, and Sensitive
Training a Japanese Chin can be a rewarding experience, as they are both intelligent and eager to learn. However, their independent streak means they may not always be as obedient as other breeds.
These dogs do enjoy showing off tricks, but care should be taken to ensure they feel confident and secure in their environment.
Fun Fact: The Japanese Chin’s luxurious coat is naturally clean and almost odorless, making grooming relatively easy compared to other long-haired breeds!
4. Pug
Once the loyal companion to Chinese emperors, this little dog later became the mascot of Holland’s royal House of Orange, as per the AKC. Its charming face and lovable nature have captivated royal families and commoners alike for centuries.
Today, the Pug continues to win hearts worldwide, living up to its motto, multum in parvo—a lot in a little.
Playful, Affectionate, and Comical
Pugs are the epitome of “small dog, big personality.” These affectionate dogs know no bounds; they love to be around their people and can’t stand being alone for too long.
Though they’re little, their personalities are larger than life, making them both delightful and hilarious companions, always ready to show their funny faces.
Strong-Willed but Smart
While Pugs are clever, their strong-willed nature means training can sometimes be a challenge. They thrive on positive reinforcement but require consistency to avoid adopting unwanted behaviors. Just be prepared for a little stubbornness, as they may try to charm their way out of following commands.
Fun Fact: A group of Pugs is called a grumble—and with their playful, vocal nature, it’s a fitting name for these social little dogs!
5. Bolognese
The Bolognese hails from the historic city of Bologna, Italy, where it has been adored by nobility since the 11th century. This small dog was a favorite of aristocrats, including Madame Pompadour and Catherine the Great, often treated like royalty, fed from golden bowls, and pampered by servants.
Affectionate, Loyal, and Reserved
Though small in size, the Bolognese has a heart full of loyalty. They are incredibly affectionate with their families and dislike being left alone, as per Purina.
With their cuddly nature and gentle demeanor, they are ideal for generally quieter homes and can form a deep bond with a single person they consider their “favorite human.”
Smart and Ready for Engagement
Training a Bolognese is a rewarding experience, as they are intelligent and eager to learn. However, they require mental stimulation and regular physical activity to keep their sharp minds engaged.
Patience is key, especially when it comes to toilet training, but overall, they thrive with early socialization and consistency.
Fun Fact: The Bolognese was once so highly valued that it was often gifted between European royal families, and it’s said that some Bolognese dogs even had their own servants!
6. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise’s history is as colorful as its personality. Descended from water spaniels, this charming little dog has been adored since the 13th century, often favored by nobility and sailors, according to PetMD.
Known as the “Tenerife” before being recognized as the Bichon Frise, this breed’s cheerful disposition and fluffy white coat have earned it a place in the hearts of dog lovers worldwide.
Energetic, Affectionate, and Adaptable
Bichon Frises are the definition of a happy-go-lucky dog. With their boundless energy and affectionate nature, they get along with everyone, including kids, other pets, and strangers.
These small but sturdy dogs have a confident, friendly attitude and are always ready to entertain with their playful antics. Whether it’s a game of fetch or a cozy cuddle, the Bichon Frise brings joy wherever it goes.
Quick Learners with a Fun Spirit
They enjoy showing off their skills and thrive on positive reinforcement. While they’re quick learners, their spirited personality can sometimes lead to excessive barking or over-excitement.
Consistency and patience during training will help channel their enthusiasm into productive behaviors, keeping them engaged and well-mannered.
Fun Fact: Bichon Frises have been known to perform in dog shows, excelling in agility, obedience, and even nose work. But despite their show-worthy skills, they’re happiest when they’re making their family smile!
7. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu, meaning “Lion Dog” in Mandarin, is a breed with a history as rich and noble as its royal roots, as per PDSA. Originally bred in Tibet to resemble lions—symbols of Buddhist temples—Shih Tzus were revered companion animals, cherished by Chinese emperors.
Playful, Sociable, and Full of Love
The Shih Tzu is a bubbly, outgoing companion who thrives on human interaction. These lively dogs love to be involved in family activities and form strong bonds with their owners. Shih Tzus are known for their fun-loving and happy demeanor, always eager to share affection and receive attention.
Quick Learners with a Spirited Edge
Training a Shih Tzu is a rewarding experience, especially when approached with positive reinforcement. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them quick learners, though their playful nature means they may require consistent guidance.
Early socialization and training are essential to ensure they grow into confident and well-mannered adults.
Fun Fact: Despite their small size and cuddly appearance, Shih Tzus are more closely related to wolves than some of the larger dog breeds, adding a touch of wild ancestry to their royal charm!
Conclusion
In the search for the best small, quiet dog breeds, many apartment dwellers seek a companion that will adapt to their lifestyle without disturbing neighbors. Quiet dogs like the Pekingese or the Bolognese make the perfect apartment dog, as they are generally calm and bark less than other dogs.
These small breeds offer plenty of love and affection, all while being content with less exercise and space to roam. When selecting a barkless dog breed, it’s important to consider not only their size but also their energy levels and the amount of mental stimulation they require.
With the right amount of attention and affection, these pups can become loyal and peaceful companions, making them ideal for apartment living or families with children.
Their gentle nature and ability to get along with other animals and children make them ideal for families looking for a furry friend to lounge with on the sofa or relax by their side, offering both comfort and joy in their quieter, playful ways.
