At some point, we all dream of having a cheerful, loving pup to greet us at the door and melt away the stress of a long day. Life can get in the way, and that dream might feel out of reach, especially if you live in an apartment or a shared home. But what if we told you it’s still possible? Sounds amazing, right?
Let’s help you make that dream come true.
In shared living spaces, where thin walls, late-night video calls, and noise-sensitive neighbors are the norm, a loud, barking dog just isn’t an option. Fortunately, some dog breeds are naturally quiet and make excellent companions in these environments. With the right amount of exercise, early socialization, and a bit of mental stimulation, these calm pups stay low on volume and high on charm.
Below, you’ll find 7 quiet, well-mannered dog breeds that thrive in apartments or shared homes, without disturbing the neighbors.
Quiet Dog Breeds for Shared Home Living
1. Basenji
How could Basenis not make it to this list? They are the calmest and adorable small dog breed you’ll ever meet!
Long before the Egyptian pharaohs commissioned art, the Basenji padded through the African brush as a silent hunter. Instead of constant barking, the compact dog lets out a melodic voice. They have a short coat, which means grooming isn’t a big issue either!
The Basenji is famously quiet, often referred to as the barkless dog. But it’s not just its voice that’s low-key. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), this breed is also aloof and tends to be reserved, especially around strangers.
Their cat-like grooming habits will keep the doggy odor to a minimum, keeping it perfect for apartment and shared living. If you feed their brains with puzzle feeders, add a brisk daily walk, then you will make them happy.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavaliers are quiet and gentle, making them ideal for apartment living. They rarely bark unless alerting you to a doorbell, so they won’t disturb the neighbors. With a deeply affectionate nature, they form strong bonds with their owners and can become lonely or depressed if left alone for long periods.
To keep them happy, try enrichment toys, puzzle feeders, or even short stays at doggy daycare. Grooming is simple; brushing their silky coat just three times a week helps prevent tangles and matting.
Interestingly, the Cavaliers almost disappeared from history. King Charles II adored them, but after his death and a change in royal leadership, the breed fell out of favor and nearly vanished. Thankfully, dedicated breeders helped bring these charming companions back.
3. Greyhounds
Don’t let their athletic history fool you; most Greyhounds are world-class nappers, often sleeping up to 18 hours a day. Their calm, quiet nature makes them perfect for shared homes or apartment living.
A couple of short leash walks each day and the occasional weekend sprint in a fenced park are all they need to stay healthy and happy. After that, you’ll likely find them curled up on the couch, content and ready for another nap. Despite their racing roots, Greyhounds are gentle, low-maintenance, and love a relaxed indoor lifestyle.
Greyhounds are one of the oldest known dog breeds. Their lineage can be traced back more than 8,000 years, appearing in ancient cave paintings and Egyptian artifacts, according to Hill’s Pet.
Their lean frame takes up less floor space than you would guess; however, you should invest in a cushioned bed to protect those bony elbows.
4. Shih Tzu
Pronounced Sheed-Zoo, this sturdy toy partner earned palace privileges in imperial China yet asks for a little more than floor time at your feet and a daily stroll around the block. Apartment living feels tailor-made as the small breed’s calm nature keeps loud barking to brief alerts that fade once newcomers settle in. Their double coat requires daily brushing, but don’t worry, you can turn this time into a bonding experience to make it more fun and less boring. These are small dogs.
Shih Tzus are obsessed with human touch and will become very vocal and frustrated if you leave them alone for a long time. If you plan on keeping one, you should play with them very often to keep their minds occupied.
They are especially great for pet parents who work from home or live with others and want a dog that respects their peace. If you are looking for that, Shih Tzu ticks all the right boxes.
The Shih Tzu has a nickname as charming as its appearance, and it’s often called a chrysanthemum-faced dog because the hair around its face grows outward in all directions, much like the petals of the flower, as shared by Purina.
5. Whippet
Whippets are known for their minimal barking, polite behaviour, and very calm nature. This breed adapts easily to smaller spaces, making it perfect for city dwellers, apartment living, or homes shared with other people.
They don’t make unnecessary noise and are less prone to separation anxiety when they feel safe and secure. Whippets have a gentle spirit and are typically great around other pets and children if provided with enough patience.
Whippets love daily walks and cozy downtime. They don’t demand much space and don’t shed too much either, which is a bonus in shared homes. Give them a blanket and a comfy corner, and they will be at peace for long hours. They may be fast on the track, but when it comes to home life, they are cute little introverts, and honestly, we are here for it.
Whippets are often mistaken for being anxious due to their tendency to tremble. Their trembling behavior adds to their somewhat timid and sensitive reputation.
6. Bernese Mountain Dog
Don’t let their size fool you, Bernese Mountain Dogs are one of the calmest, quietest dogs you could ever ask for. Known as the gentle giants, they carry themselves with a kind and regal energy. Despite being large, they are incredibly sensitive and soft-natured, making them great for peaceful households that have space to share.
Bernese Mountain Dogs don’t bark often, unless something truly calls for it. They aren’t easily rattled by neighbours, passing dogs, or the sounds of a busy apartment building. Instead, they prefer a calm routine, family time, and outdoor walks to stretch their legs. Their calm nature and love for close bonds make them ideal for families, couples, and other dogs.
Bernese Mountain Dogs aren’t just fluffy companions; they’ve also been credited with heroic acts. According to Britannica, notable Berners include Bella, who saved her owner from a house fire in Canada (2013).
7. Scottish Deerhound
Graceful, tall, and quieter than most dogs you will ever meet, the Scottish Deerhound is a breed that brings elegance and calm into any home. Although they are large animals, they have a gentle and peaceful demeanor and are surprisingly low energy indoors.
They are not known for frequent barking, even when the other dogs are making a mess. Their reserved nature makes them wonderful roommates in shared spaces, and they are rarely aggressive toward strangers, other animals, or unexpected sounds.
As long as they have had a daily walk and some outdoors time, they are content to relax beside their humans. Their build might suggest a need for a huge yard, but they are surprisingly fine with apartment life, as long as you are committed to their exercise and cuddles.
Scottish Deerhounds are different from many herding or working breeds; they’re not focused on pleasing their humans with constant obedience. As PetMD points out, these dogs have a more independent mindset and are less driven by the need to follow commands or perform tasks.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, living with a dog isn’t just about the space you have; it’s about the bond and love you will share with your dog over the years. For many pet parents, the dream of having a loyal and loving dog comes with one concern: noise. But as we have seen, quiet dog breeds for shared homes are not only real but wonderful.
Whether you live in a cozy apartment downtown or a shared house in the suburbs, there’s a calm breed waiting for you out there with the right temperament, the right training needs, and a perfect heart to fit your life.
Now, hurry up and get yourself the best treat of all time, a calm and cute furry friend! Trust us, it will be worth the hassle, always!
