City living and apartment life don’t have to mean giving up the joy of having a dog. In fact, some small breeds are perfectly suited to cozy spaces, combining companionship with calm, easygoing personalities.
The best small apartment dogs are quiet, adaptable, and low-maintenance, making them ideal for those who value peace at home without sacrificing the love of a furry friend.
These breeds thrive in smaller spaces because they don’t require endless yard time, excessive exercise, or constant noise. Many are naturally low barkers, intelligent, and affectionate, creating a harmonious balance for apartment dwellers.
We’ll introduce the top small dog breeds for apartment life, focusing on those that can live happily in compact spaces while still delivering endless love and loyalty. If you’re ready for a calm, quiet, and devoted companion, these breeds are perfect for bringing joy without the chaos.
Noise note: To reduce your dog’s barking, first figure out why they’re barking. Training takes time, so be patient. It’s not realistic to expect a quick fix or for your dog to stop barking completely.
Best Small Dog Breeds for Apartments and Minimal Barking
1. French Bulldog
If apartment living had an official mascot, it would almost certainly be the French Bulldog. These little charmers have skyrocketed in popularity—and once you meet one, you’ll understand why.
Frenchies are friendly, goofy, and wonderfully low-key, making them ideal companions for city dwellers who prefer peaceful neighbors. They’re small in size but big on personality, and their gentle, patient nature makes them great playmates for kids—without the zoomies that turn your living room into a racetrack.
Bat Ears, Big Personality: Their ears practically scream, “I’m adorable—notice me!”
Apartment MVP: Small, calm, and easygoing—ideal for city life
Social Butterfly: Loves humans, gets along with other pets, and makes friends wherever they go
Of course, that adorable smooshy face can come with some health concerns thanks to their brachycephalic build, so Frenchie parents should be prepared for the possibility of vet visits that aren’t quite as cute as the dog itself.
According to the AKC, these little comedians are “dogs of few words”—translation: they hardly bark. Great news if you don’t want to be that neighbor. Despite their quiet nature, they’re surprisingly alert watchdogs, ready to give a dignified snort if something seems off.
Frenchies fit right in with singles, couples, families, and even other pets. They don’t need a ton of outdoor exercise—just a few strolls and a comfy couch to snore on. Friendly, adaptable, and full of character, they make friends everywhere they go.
2. Pug
The Pug is the ultimate small-dog charmer: squishy-faced, wrinkly, and full of personality that makes up for its compact size. These little comedians are affectionate, playful, and endlessly entertaining, making them perfect companions for singles, families, or anyone in need of a snuggle buddy.
Despite their playful side, Pugs are true couch potatoes at heart. They don’t require a lot of exercise—short walks and a bit of indoor playtime are usually enough to keep them happy and healthy.
But don’t let that fool you: their clever brains love attention and mental stimulation, so interactive games or training sessions are appreciated.
Couch Potato Extraordinaire: Perfect for indoor living and chill vibes
Playful Pals: Loves short bursts of play but doesn’t demand constant activity
Social Butterballs: Friendly with kids, humans, and other pets
Because of their flat faces, Pugs are best suited to indoor living, especially in warmer climates where overheating can be an issue. They may snort, snuffle, and snore (sometimes all at once), which only adds to their quirky charm.
In short, the Pug is a little package of joy wrapped in wrinkles, always ready for a cuddle, a game, or a comedic snore session on the couch.
3. Shih Tzu
If you’re looking for a small dog with a big personality wrapped in a luxurious coat, the Shih Tzu is your ideal companion. Originally bred as royal lap dogs in Tibet, these little fluffballs were designed for indoor life—and they’ve perfected it.
Whether you live in a tiny apartment or a spacious home, Shih Tzus are happy as long as they have a cozy spot to lounge and a little room to stretch their legs, WebMD says. Don’t let their calm demeanor fool you—they love playtime and interactive games.
Couch Connoisseur: Prefers curling up in your lap over running marathons
Silky Style: Gorgeous long coats require a bit of grooming love to prevent tangles
Social Butterflies: Friendly with kids, adults, and other pets
A short daily session of fetch or gentle play is usually enough to keep them content. Shih Tzus are also very affectionate and thrive on human companionship, making them excellent pets for families, singles, or seniors.
In short, the Shih Tzu is a tiny, regal companion who knows how to live the lap-dog lifestyle—happy, pampered, and always ready to brighten your day with a wag or a wiggle.
4. Chihuahua
Don’t let their size fool you: Chihuahuas are pint-sized powerhouses with personalities bigger than most full-grown dogs.
These tiny dynamos often form a special bond with one devoted human and will defend them fiercely, even if it means challenging a dog ten times their size. They’re like living, furry pocket-sized superheroes—always alert, full of spunk, and surprisingly brave.
Fiercely Loyal: Will form a deep bond with their favorite human
Big Personality: Bold, confident, and not afraid to speak their mind
Low Exercise Needs: Short walks and playtime keep them happy
Despite their bold nature, Chihuahuas are extremely adaptable to apartment life. A cozy couch, a soft blanket, and regular play sessions are usually all they need to thrive.
They’re intelligent and can be trained, though their stubborn streak occasionally shows up, making training both a challenge and a joy. And while they’re small, their energy is boundless—they love short walks, indoor games, and cuddles that last for hours.
Many Chihuahuas believe they’re the boss of the house. In reality, they might be—at least in their own minds.
5. Basenji
The Basenji is one of the most unique small dog breeds on the planet. Known as the “barkless dog,” these clever canines don’t bark like most dogs, says Purina. Instead, they produce a charming, almost musical yodel called a “baroo.” It’s the perfect sound for city dwellers or anyone who enjoys a peaceful home but still wants a dog with personality.
Originating from Central Africa, Basenjis are graceful, agile, and athletic. Their cat-like grooming habits make them naturally clean—they’ll spend hours licking and preening themselves so you rarely have to bathe them.
Intelligent and Observant: Keeps an eye on everything happening around them
Agile and Athletic: Loves to run, jump, and sometimes climb
Independent but Loyal: Forms bonds with their family, yet enjoys some alone time
But don’t mistake their cleanliness for laziness: Basenjis are incredibly alert, curious, and highly intelligent.
They love to watch their surroundings, often perched by windows, surveying their kingdom with a keen, observant eye. Some even channel their inner monkey and climb furniture—or in rare cases, trees!
6. Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin is a pint-sized pooch with the soul of royalty. With its elegant, flowing coat and dainty features, this little dog looks like it belongs on a silk pillow—but don’t let that delicate appearance fool you.
Japanese Chins are playful, affectionate, and full of personality. They love to be close to their humans, curling up in laps or following you around the house like a tiny, fluffy shadow.
Affectionate and Loyal: Loves cuddles and companionship
Playful but Calm: Enjoys fun and games without being hyperactive
Apartment-Friendly: Small size and indoor adaptability make them perfect city pets
Despite their small size, Japanese Chins are clever and curious. They enjoy exploring their surroundings and engaging in light play, but they’re also perfectly content lounging quietly while you read a book or sip your coffee.
Their gentle nature makes them excellent companions for seniors, singles, or families with older children who can treat them with care. The Japanese Chin has been called a “little aristocrat” because of its refined manners and penchant for lounging in style.
7. Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound may be small, but it packs a lot of energy and elegance into its slender frame. Often described as a miniature Greyhound, this breed is athletic, fast, and playful, yet incredibly affectionate with its humans.
If you want a dog that loves to sprint across the yard one minute and curl up in your lap the next, the Italian Greyhound is a perfect choice.
These pups are highly sensitive and thrive on love, attention, and gentle handling. They bond closely with their family, often forming one-on-one attachments with a favorite person.
Loving and Loyal: Forms strong bonds with family members
Apartment-Friendly: Small size fits city living perfectly
Elegant and Graceful: Moves with the poise of a miniature racehorse
Italian Greyhounds enjoy indoor life but also appreciate short, brisk walks or playful chases in a fenced yard.
Their graceful movements and expressive eyes make them irresistible companions for anyone who loves elegance paired with playful energy.
Conclusion
When it comes to the best small dog breeds for apartments and minimal barking, quiet dog breeds like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Shiba Inu, and other generally quiet small dog breeds are ideal for pet parents seeking a peaceful family life in smaller spaces. These tiny-frame pups, including some sight hounds and long-bodied breeds, rarely bark and have a low tendency toward excessive barking when given proper and consistent training.
Many dogs with short coats and less grooming needs also fit perfectly into apartment living, getting along well with other animals and other dogs. While they may be small, these pretty quiet pups can still be good watchdogs without becoming energetic dogs that disturb neighbors. With calm breed characteristics that help reduce separation anxiety and allow you to spend quality time together, the right breed makes apartment living easier, quieter, and far more enjoyable.
