Bringing home your first dog is exciting, but what if you’re not ready for a high-energy barker? Some breeds can overwhelm new owners with constant noise and demands.
That’s why quiet dog breeds are a smart choice for first-timers. These calm companions are gentle, easy to live with, and won’t startle you or your neighbors every time the doorbell rings.
With over 45% of households in the U.S. owning a dog, according to the AVMA, finding the right fit matters. Whether you live in a small apartment or a busy household, these dogs bring peace, not chaos.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best quiet dog breeds for first-time owners who want love without the loud. Let’s find your perfect match.
Quiet Dog Breeds for First-Time Owners
Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the joys of dog ownership. Some breeds are naturally calm, quiet, and adaptable to smaller spaces.
The best low-maintenance breeds for apartment living don’t require a big yard, constant grooming, or hours of exercise. They’re happy with short walks, cuddles, and a cozy corner to nap in.
If you’re looking for a peaceful companion that fits your lifestyle, these breeds are a perfect place to start.
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
According to WebMD, once favored by British royalty, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel carries itself with charm and grace. But beyond its noble background, this breed is one of the most adaptable and quiet small dogs.
Ideal for apartment dwellers, it’s a peaceful presence in any home and blends well into family life.
Noise level: Rarely barks unless startled
Trainability: Very eager to please and quick to learn
City Suitability: Excellent for smaller living spaces
These sweet-natured pet dogs enjoy curling up on the couch as much as playing in the park. They bond quickly with pet parents and are often friendly with other dogs. With gentle brushing, their coat stays healthy, and their temperament remains consistently loving and calm.
Fun Fact:
Despite their dainty appearance, Cavaliers are descendants of sporting spaniels and enjoy short bursts of activity, especially chasing butterflies or running in circles for fun.
2. Basset Hound
The Basset Hound was originally bred in France for hunting small game using scent. Today, they’re known more for being great companions than hunters.
With their soulful eyes and droopy ears, they may seem sad, but their hearts are full of love. This is a quiet breed that loves relaxing indoors.
Noise level: Generally quiet, may howl occasionally
Trainability: Can be stubborn, needs consistency
City Suitability: Good, with proper daily walk routines
These dogs adore naps and enjoy life at a slower pace. Give them enough exercise, and they’re happy to relax the rest of the day. They get along well with other pets, children, and most visitors. Their laid-back nature and affectionate demeanor make them ideal for first-timers.
Fun Fact:
Basset Hounds have one of the most powerful noses in the dog world, second only to the Bloodhound. Their long ears help sweep scents toward their nose as they walk.
3. Shih Tzu
Bred for Chinese emperors, the Shih Tzu is a royal lapdog with a confident personality. While they can be alert, they don’t bark excessively like many small breeds. Their balanced temperament makes them perfect for homes that want a calm but cheerful dog. They thrive with emotional connection and positive reinforcement.
Noise level: Low to moderate; alert but not yappy
Trainability: Smart but needs gentle training
City Suitability: Excellent for indoor living
Shih Tzus are affectionate and intelligent, enjoying games and short walks just as much as cuddling. Their expressive eyes and luxurious coat make them popular with pet parents, though their ears require regular care. They’re adaptable and friendly with both children and guests.
Fun Fact:
Shih Tzus were bred solely for companionship, not work or hunting. According to Pedigree, their name means “little lion,” but their true nature is all love and comfort, not fierceness.
4. Whippet
Whippets are elegant, calm, and incredibly gentle. They’re among the quietest breeds around. Originally bred for speed, they now prefer cozy naps in a warm house.
These loyal companions bond closely with their owners and are rarely noisy, even when a stranger walks by. A peaceful pet for calm homes.
Noise level: Very low; rarely barks
Trainability: Quick learners with consistent training
City Suitability: Ideal for apartments and houses with soft beds
Whippets are affectionate but not clingy. They enjoy short play sessions followed by long rest periods. Despite their athletic build, they’re surprisingly lazy indoors.
Their short coat requires minimal grooming, and they shed very little. Whippets might chase small animals outdoors, so a leash is a must.
Fun Fact:
Though they can sprint at up to 35 mph, Whippets are often called “the poor man’s racehorse” due to their speed and racing history on the coursing field.
5. Great Dane
Don’t let the size fool you—Great Danes are gentle giants and surprisingly quiet. These breeds tend to be calm indoors, preferring to stretch out beside their human instead of barking.
Though their size is intimidating, these large dogs are affectionate and great with kids when properly socialized from a young age.
Noise level: Low; may bark only when necessary
Trainability: Responds well to early training
City Suitability: Good for large apartments or homes
Despite their imposing presence, Great Danes are loving and sweet-natured. They require consistent routines, moderate exercise, and plenty of food due to their size.
With minimal grooming needs and a calm demeanor, they’re easier to care for than many imagine—just be sure your furniture can handle the cuddles.
Fun Fact:
Though big in size, Great Danes were originally bred to hunt wild boars. Today, they’re more likely to curl up like lapdogs—just a bit larger than average!
6. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso may be small, but its personality is big. According to the American Kennel Club, they were originally bred to guard Tibetan monasteries. These absolutely adorable pups are naturally watchful and quiet.
They don’t make noise unless there’s a reason. Today, they’re loving companions who bring joy and calm to modern homes. Moreover, Lhasa Apsos and Shih Tzu look alike.
Noise level: Moderate; alert but not overly vocal
Trainability: Needs patient, positive training
City Suitability: Excellent for apartment living
These couch potato dogs love lounging with their humans and enjoying light exercise. Their long fur does require regular grooming, but their companionship is worth it.
Lhasas are protective, so early socialization is key. They need light exercise to stay balanced and are a great choice for families seeking calm.
Fun Fact:
Though small, Lhasa Apsos were considered sacred in ancient Tibet. Monks believed the breed could store the souls of lamas after death, making them spiritually revered and never easy to adopt.
7. Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier is fun, affectionate, and full of personality without being noisy. These dogs tend to be on the quiet side, making them perfect pets for families or singles alike.
With a tuxedo coat and bright eyes, they bring joy to any space without overwhelming it with sound. Moreover, they are easy to train with positive reinforcement.
Noise level: Low to moderate; excitable but rarely loud
Trainability: Very responsive to early training
City Suitability: Great for apartments or smaller homes
Boston Terriers are playful and enjoy daily exercise, but they’re equally fond of long naps on the couch.
Their short coat requires minimal grooming, and they tend to get along well with other pets and children. With balanced energy and lots of heart, they’re easy to love.
Fun Fact:
Boston Terriers are nicknamed the “American Gentleman” due to their black-and-white coats and good manners. They were also one of the first breeds developed in the United States.
Conclusion
Quiet dogs don’t need to shout to be heard. These even-tempered breeds bring peace and loyalty into any home without acting like an alarm system every time a guest arrives.
They’re perfect for the person who values calm over chaos. With regular care to keep their coat healthy and hearts happy, these pups grow into amazing pets. Whether you live alone or with family, these dogs stay loyal and loving.
Most are gentle with strangers and excellent around kids. If you’re looking for a steady companion who won’t overwhelm your world, one of these quiet breeds may be the perfect match.
