Apartment living comes with its charm—cozy corners, city views, and compact spaces. But when you’re sharing walls with neighbors, a constantly barking dog can quickly turn into a noisy nightmare. While many small dog breeds get an unfair reputation for being overly vocal, the truth is that some dogs—big and small—can be wonderfully quiet and make them the best apartment dog breed.
The ideal apartment dog is often petite and has low-to-moderate exercise needs, but there are also a few gentle giants who adjust surprisingly well to limited space.
What makes a dog great for apartment life, though, is a calm temperament and minimal tendency to bark at every passing sound. And if your furry friend does get a little too chatty, consistent training can help curb that behavior over time.
Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or just looking for a peaceful four-legged roommate, quiet breeds can make urban living a breeze. Let’s meet the calmest, loyal, and most well-mannered breeds that can thrive in an apartment setting—no noise complaints involved.
Quiet Apartment Dog Breeds
1. Bulldog
Vibe: Quiet, charming, and a snore expert
First quiet dog breed on our list is the Bulldog is the laid-back, chill roommate you never knew you needed. Known as the “sourmug,” the Bulldog is a stocky breed with a distinct rolling gait. It features a large head, folded ears, a short muzzle, a protruding lower jaw, and loose skin that creates wrinkles on its face and head.
While some dogs might bark their heads off at every passing car or visitor, Bulldogs are more into naps and relaxed lounging.
They don’t typically make a peep, and their few vocalizations usually sound more like a cute snort than an actual bark. Bulldogs are great family pets. They usually get along well with both children and other animals.
Because of their brachycephalic airway structure (that’s a fancy way of saying “short snouts”), Bulldtendency to snore—which, honestly, is pretty endearing when you’re curled up on the couch with them.
And though they’re not the most vocal dogs, they do enjoy a brisk walk now and then to keep their health in check, because, like everyone else, they’d rather be comfy but know they need to stay active.
Quiet Points:
✔️ Doesn’t bark much—unless it’s for a snack
✔️ Snoozes like a champion, but still knows how to look adorable while doing it
✔️ A master of couch potato vibes
According to Britannica, the Bulldog is an unreliable guard dog or watchdog due to its laid-back and friendly nature.
Perfect for apartment living? You bet. Perfect for any lazy afternoon? Absolutely.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Vibe: Gentle, affectionate, and just enough fluff to fill your heart
If you’re looking for a dog that’s a little more than just quiet, then the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is your go-to. This toy breed, once favored by 19th-century British aristocracy, remains popular today.
These sweethearts are generally low-energy and love being by your side without excessive barking at every little thing. They’re naturally gentle, which makes them amazing apartment pets—perfect for quiet snuggles and long Netflix marathons without any interruptions.
Though they’re not as vocal as some other breeds, Cavaliers are friendly little socialites that enjoy being with their pack.
They’ll happily lounge with you while you work from home or sit contentedly on the couch, basking in the quiet calm of the apartment. Just don’t be surprised when you end up with a lapful of fluff—Cavaliers consider your lap a throne!
Quiet Points:
✔️ Minimal barking—mostly just sweet, affectionate gazes
✔️ So gentle, you might forget they’re even there until they nudge you for a cuddle
✔️ Always available for a nap or a slow walk
WebMD states that Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are receptive to training. Using treats as rewards helps reinforce positive behavior, teaching your puppy the value of listening to commands.
3. French Bulldog
Vibe: Playful, snuggly, and the best doorbell alternative
The French Bulldog is the ultimate compact companion for apartment living. With their adorable bat-like ears and laid-back personality, Frenchies are all about lounging on your lap, soaking up attention, and enjoying life—without much noise.
These little cuties are known for being quiet dog breeds who rarely bark, unless, of course, someone knocks at the door (but hey, it’s better than barking at every leaf, right?).
Just like Bulldogs, Frenchies have brachycephalic airways that might lead to some occasional snoring, but overall, their vocal range is limited to a mild “grumble” or two.
They may not be the most athletic, but they certainly enjoy a good stroll, just enough to keep things interesting without exhausting themselves.
Quiet Points:
✔️ Will bark at the doorbell—nothing more, nothing less
✔️ Their lack of barking will make your neighbors love you
✔️ Known for adorable snoring but very rarely loud
A must-have for anyone who enjoys peaceful, quiet moments but still wants a companion that’s playful when it counts.
4. Basenji
Vibe: Independent, alert, and practically mute
If you’re seeking a super quiet dog to keep the peace in your apartment, look no further than the Basenji—also known as the “barkless dog,” according to the American Kennel Club (AKC).
Basenjis are small dogs, standing 16–17 inches at the shoulder. They are graceful and agile, capable of jumping vertically, and feature a short, smooth coat with a tightly curled tail.
While the Basenji does make noise, barking is just not in their vocabulary. Instead, they communicate with a unique sound called a “barroo”—a soft, yodel-like noise that’s so charming it might just make you question if your dog has started singing.
Bred as hunting dogs, these ancient pups were prized by Pharaohs for their alertness and tirelessness. However, they are remarkably quiet in the home, and their independent nature means they won’t demand constant attention or incessantly bark at strangers. They’re more the “I’ll hang out quietly with you” type, making them perfect for apartment life.
Quiet Points:
✔️ Independent but still affectionate when they feel like it
✔️ Excellent at minding their own business while you binge-watch your favorite show
Basenjis are highly intelligent and energetic dogs that require regular training and stimulation; without it, they can become bored and may engage in mischievous behavior.
While Basenjis are affectionate with their family, they can be aloof with new people and may not be the best choice for homes with small children, as their unpredictable behavior can make them feel anxious. Early socialization and training are key to helping them become more adaptable and comfortable around strangers.
5. Greyhound
Vibe: Speedy, chill, and surprisingly calm
You might think the Greyhound is all about running around at top speed, and you’d be right—but when they’re not zooming around the track (or your local park), they’re couch potatoes.
Greyhounds are classified as large dogs, typically measuring 27–30 inches in height and weighing between 60–70 pounds.
Despite their athletic build, Greyhounds are generally quiet and surprisingly relaxed. They are generally friendly with both strangers and family members alike.
Known for being one of the quietest hound breeds, Greyhounds are more interested in lounging than chasing after squirrels or barking at the neighbor’s dog. Greyhounds are typically quiet dogs that rarely bark, making them well-suited for suburban living.
They’ll sleep for hours on end and spend most of their time chilling out at home, making them great companions for a calm apartment lifestyle.
Quiet Points:
✔️ Will happily nap in the sun for hours (no barking required)
✔️ They run fast, but when it’s time to rest, they’re total couch potatoes
✔️ When they do make noise, it’s usually a soft whine, never a bark
As per Wikipedia, Greyhounds are known for being outgoing, cheerful, and highly sociable dogs. They often form strong bonds with their owners and may follow them from room to room, earning the nickname “Velcro dog.”
Perfect for those who want a gentle giant who is all about quiet cuddles and slow walks.
6. Shih Tzu
Vibe: Regal, affectionate, and a total lap dog
The Shih Tzu might have been bred to be a companion to Chinese royalty, but that doesn’t mean they demand a loud, regal lifestyle. Quite the opposite!
These tiny dogs have a gentle, affectionate nature and are typically very quiet. While they might give a little bark at the door or when they’re feeling particularly excited, it’s nothing compared to the howls of other breeds.
Shih Tzus are easygoing, love to snuggle, and are perfectly content to curl up on your lap or by your side for hours on end. They’re relatively low-energy and won’t need too much exercise, making them ideal for apartment living. Plus, they’ll keep their regal demeanor while lounging on your couch.
Quiet Points:
✔️ Very few barks—just lots of snuggles
✔️ Will love being your loyal lap dog
✔️ No need for marathon runs, just cozy naps
The Shih Tzu’s affectionate nature and comfort in small living spaces make it a favorite among dog enthusiasts.
If you’re looking for a calm, affectionate dog who’s perfectly content chilling by your side, the Shih Tzu might just be your perfect match.
7. Pug
Vibe: Silly, cuddly, and always ready for a nap
The Pug is an ancient breed from China, dating back over 2,000 years. Once favored by royalty, Pugs remain a popular choice today. They stand 10–13 inches tall, weigh 14–18 pounds, and are known for their short fawn or black coats, wrinkled faces, curly tails, and distinctive snorting sounds.
Though they may be small, Pugs have big personalities—and a surprisingly quiet demeanor for such a spunky breed. Pugs are often described as charming and mischievous, but they rarely bark unless there’s a legitimate reason.
They’re much more likely to be lounging on your lap, giving you their signature soulful stare, than engaging in a barking match with the neighbor’s dog.
Their short snouts might make them a bit more snore-prone than other breeds, but it’s a sound that adds to their adorable charm.
While they enjoy their playtime, short walks, and some light exercise, you won’t hear much from them otherwise. They’re ideal companions for those who need a dog that’s not just low on barking but big on cuddles.
Quiet Points:
✔️ Rarely barks but will charm you with their adorable snoring
✔️ Will happily snuggle with you while you binge-watch shows
✔️ Easygoing nature means they’re the perfect apartment dog
PDSA notes that Pugs are intelligent and affectionate dogs that thrive on companionship. They form strong bonds with their owners and do not tolerate being left alone for extended periods, making them best suited for homes where someone is usually around.
Conclusion
For apartment dwellers and pet parents seeking peace and companionship, quiet apartment dog breeds can be the ideal choice. Breeds like the Italian Greyhound, Coton de Tulear, Japanese Chin, Shiba Inu, and even the larger Bernese Mountain Dog are known for their calm demeanor and ability to adapt well to small spaces or small apartment living. These pups tend to bark less—yes, even when the doorbell rings—making them perfect neighbors in shared living environments.
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne, among other dogs and other best small dogs, also fits this profile, offering a calm canine presence that’s easy to live with. These breeds often require less grooming and moderate mental stimulation, and they’re just as content on a leash for a relaxed stroll as they are lounging quietly around the house.
Whether you’re a person who also has cats or simply prefers a peaceful environment, it’s important to choose wisely. The breed makes a big difference—some terriers, for example, may be more vocal, while others are naturally quieter. Still, the best dogs for apartments combine a gentle sense of loyalty with low-maintenance habits.
