If you’ve ever lived with a dog who treats every doorbell, leaf, or suspicious squirrel like a national emergency, you’ll understand the appeal of the quiet dog. Yes, they exist. No, they’re not unicorns. And yes, some of them live delightfully long, peaceful lives.
Quiet dog breeds tend to bark, howl, or whine less, which makes them ideal for people living in apartments or close-knit neighborhoods. Although training can help reduce barking in any dog, choosing a breed naturally inclined to be calm and quiet will increase your chances of having a peaceful canine companion.
Whether you’re in an apartment with paper-thin walls or just someone who enjoys the calming ambiance of not being barked at while opening a bag of chips, these dogs are music to your ears.
The best part? Many of these quiet companions are also known for their longevity. That means more years of cuddles, calm, and uninterrupted naps on your couch. You get all the love and loyalty, minus the constant ear-splitting commentary.
So, if you’ve been searching for a furry friend who won’t startle the neighbors or wake the baby, these mellow, long-lived legends are your kind of dog.
Quiet Dog Breeds With Long Lifespan
1. Basenji
Meet the Basenji—the “barkless dog” that’s a stealthy canine ninja. Hailing from Central Africa, these sleek and graceful pups are known as the healthiest dog breed, often enjoying 12 to 14 years (sometimes even longer!) of companionship.
Standing about 16 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 20 to 25 pounds, they’re compact but muscular. They have a distinctive curled tail, tightly wound over their back, and large, alert ears that stand tall. Their wrinkled forehead gives them a permanently curious expression, adding to their quiet but clever charm.
Their sleek, athletic build and keen intelligence made them excellent trackers and companions on hunting trips. Over time, their curious and independent nature has made them popular as generally quiet, loyal pets around the world, especially for those who want a clever dog with a calm, peaceful vibe.
What makes Basenjis quiet yet captivating:
They rarely bark, instead opting for a distinctive yodel that’s more of a conversation starter than a noise complaint
Known for their longevity, these pups often stick around as loving friends well into their teen years
Independent and clever, they enjoy exploring their surroundings without causing a fuss
Groom themselves meticulously, so fewer baths and less doggy smell to worry about
Instead of barking, they communicate with quirky yodel-like sounds called “baroos” that are way cuter than your average woof. If you crave peace but still want a dog that’s expressive in its own unique way, the Basenji fits the bill perfectly.
This cat-like breed is super clean too—think of them as the dog version of a neat freak, spending time grooming themselves.
Bonus Fun: Don’t be surprised if your Basenji surprises you with a sudden, unexpected yodel—it’s their version of a “hello” or “I’m curious!”—quiet doesn’t always mean silent.
2. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu has royal roots tracing back to ancient China, where they were cherished companions of emperors and nobility.
Originally bred as palace pets, these little dogs were treasured for their affectionate nature and beautiful coats. Over centuries, they became symbols of luxury and loyalty, often pampered and protected within royal courts.
The Shih Tzu is a small but sturdy dog known for its luxurious, long, flowing double coat that often sweeps the floor, making them look like a living, breathing royal tapestry. Their adorable pushed-in face, big dark eyes, and fluffy curled tail add to their charming, almost regal appearance.
Their calm and gentle nature means they’re pretty low on the barking scale, often communicating through soft, subtle sounds instead of loud alerts—perfect for those who prefer tranquility but want a furry best friend.
Why Shih Tzus make great quiet companions:
Typically soft-spoken, using gentle murmurs instead of constant barking to get attention
Long-lived little pals, often with 12+ years of joyful companionship ahead
Small size and mellow personality make them ideal for cozy living spaces
Crave affection and quiet cuddle sessions, thriving in calm, loving homes
These little charmers are also known for their impressive life expectancy, commonly reaching into their teens (12 to 16 years or more), giving you years of loyal companionship.
These small dogs adore cuddling up for quiet moments and are happiest in calm environments, making them perfect for apartment dwellers or anyone who enjoys a peaceful home.
Bonus Fun: Underneath that fluffy exterior is a dog with personality—and plenty of opinions on the best spot for a nap, usually your favorite chair or lap!
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavaliers are the epitome of sweet and affectionate—perfect companions who get along beautifully with kids, other dogs, and even dog-friendly cats.
Bred to be a companion dog, Cavaliers have always been known for their affectionate, gentle nature and charming looks. Over the centuries, they’ve remained beloved family pets, prized for their friendly personalities and adaptability.
Typically standing 12 to 13 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 13 to 18 pounds, these small dogs have a graceful, compact build. Their silky, medium-length coat flows with feathering on the ears, chest, legs, and tail, and comes in classic color patterns like Blenheim (chestnut and white), tricolor, ruby, and black & tan.
Their calm demeanor makes them ideal for cozy family life, whether that means gentle playtime or relaxed snuggles on the couch.
Quiet and loving Cavalier traits:
Soft-spoken and gentle, rarely causing a ruckus indoors
Long-lived companions, often reaching 12 to 15 years of age
Adapt well to family life with children and other pets
Enjoy moderate exercise that balances their calm nature
These dogs aren’t the most high-energy athletes, but still enjoy regular walks and a good game of fetch to keep spirits high. They tend to communicate softly, making them a peaceful presence in any home.
Bonus Fun: With those big, soulful eyes and silky ears, Cavaliers have mastered the art of “puppy-dog eye” looks that’ll melt even the toughest heart.
4. Whippet
The Whippet’s history is rooted in England, where it was bred as a smaller, faster cousin to the Greyhound, prized for its incredible speed and hunting skills. Known as the “poor man’s racehorse,” Whippets were beloved by working-class folks who raced them in local competitions.
The Whippet is a medium-sized dog, sleek and athletic, built for speed and agility. Typically standing between 18 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing around 25 to 40 pounds, Whippets have a slim, streamlined body with a deep chest and long, powerful legs.
Their sleek, aerodynamic build and friendly nature make them excellent companions today, combining bursts of lightning-fast energy with sweet, gentle personalities perfect for family life.
Friendly and gentle, these dogs love nothing more than curling up next to their humans for a cozy evening. Though they’re built for speed, Whippets are surprisingly low-key indoors and won’t fill your home with noisy barks.
Why Whippets are quiet and easy-going:
Calm and quiet indoors, rarely barking or causing noise
Athletic yet low-maintenance when it comes to exercise needs
Adapt well to apartment living with regular outdoor time
Affectionate and gentle, making them great family pets
Purina says they do need regular exercise—a fenced yard run or daily walks will keep them happy and healthy—but they’re just as content lounging on the sofa afterward.
Bonus Fun: Whippets are basically the couch potatoes of the sighthound world—fast on the field, but total snuggle bugs at home.
5. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso may be small, but they carry themselves like ancient royalty—complete with a long, flowing coat that’s show-stopping in competitions and an alert personality that makes them surprisingly good indoor watchdogs, says WebMD.
Originally bred in Tibet as protectors of monasteries, these small breeds are loyal family members who tend to be cautious around strangers until they get to know them.
Despite their history as fierce protectors, Lhasa Apsos have a warm, loyal side and have become popular family pets around the world. Their long, flowing coats and confident demeanor make them stand out in any crowd.
Why Lhasa Apsos make great quiet, loyal pets:
Alert but quiet watchdogs, protective without excessive barking
Medium energy—happy with moderate daily play and mental stimulation
Require regular grooming to keep their beautiful coats mat-free
Loyal and loving, but a bit reserved with new faces
Lhasas aren’t high-energy dogs, but they do require daily mental and moderate physical activity to stay happy and healthy. Their coats need regular grooming to avoid mats and keep that signature silky shine, but with a bit of consistent care, they’re relatively low-maintenance companions.
Bonus Fun: Despite their fluffy exterior and serious attitude, Lhasas often have a cheeky streak and love sneaking in some playful mischief when they think no one’s watching!
6. Basset Hound
The Basset Hound’s origins trace back to France, where it was bred for hunting small game like rabbits. With its powerful nose, the Basset was designed for tracking scents close to the ground over long distances.
Basset Hounds are instantly recognizable with their long, droopy ears, sad, soulful eyes, and loose, wrinkled skin that gives their faces a lovable, droopy expression. They have a sturdy, low-slung body with short, strong legs built for tracking scents close to the ground.
Typically, Bassets stand about 12 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 40 to 65 pounds. Their short, dense coat comes in various color combinations, making them charming and unmistakable hunting dogs with a heartwarming look.
Why Bassets are lovable but a handful:
Stubborn learners who respond best to patient, creative training
Vocal watchdogs who won’t hesitate to let you know what’s up
Natural diggers with alert hunting instinct—fences are your friend
Big-hearted and soulful with a unique charm all their own
They’re pretty smart, but training them takes patience and creativity because they can be quite stubborn. If you’re up for a challenge, a Basset’s loyalty and charm will make it worth the effort.
Heads up: Hillspet noted Bassets can be serious barkers (think neighborhood watch captain) and love to dig with their tough little paws—so a secure yard is a must unless you want your own doggy detective going on solo scent missions.
Bonus Fun: Their droopy ears and sad eyes might make you think they’re always down, but inside, Bassets have a goofy, playful spirit just waiting to come out!
7. Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds are sleek, graceful, and one of the quieter members of the hound family. Unlike their louder cousins, these pups tend to keep the noise down and the vibes calm, making them great companions for quieter homes or apartment living.
The Italian Greyhound is a miniature version of the Greyhound, with a long history dating back to ancient Rome and Egypt, where they were favored by nobility and royalty.
Standing typically between 13 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder and a healthy weight of around 7 to 14 pounds. Despite their delicate looks, Italian Greyhounds are fast and playful athletes who enjoy bursts of exercise but love to lounge and chill most of the day.
They’re gentle and well-suited to families and individuals who appreciate a refined but loving pup. Italian Greyhounds are typically cheerful and in good health with fewer health issues, often enjoying a life expectancy of up to 15 years.
Why Italian Greyhounds are quietly charming:
Naturally quiet, rarely barking or making noise
Elegant and athletic with bursts of playful energy
Perfect for smaller living spaces and calm households
Loving and gentle companions who crave affection
Despite their aristocratic appearance, Italian Greyhounds are affectionate and playful companions who bond closely with their families. Their quiet nature and modest exercise needs make them wonderful pets for those seeking a small, gentle, and stylish dog with a storied past.
Bonus Fun: They may look like little aristocrats, but Italian Greyhounds often have a mischievous side—they’ll zoom across the room at lightning speed just to remind you who’s boss!
Conclusion
When it comes to quiet dog breeds with long lifespans, some hardy breeds like the Shiba Inu, Jack Russell Terriers, and Toy Poodles can live nearly two decades. These strong-willed dogs are not just alert hunters or energetic companions—they’re also pretty chill in the house and typically quiet, making them ideal for pet parents seeking peace with longevity. Smaller breeds like Shih Tzu, French Bulldogs, may face breathing issues, while others boast silky coats and quiet loyalty over long periods.
Even large breeds like Bernese Mountain Dogs, Border Collies, or Scottish Deerhounds can surprise you with their even-keeled nature and resilience, though energetic dogs like Great Danes and Saint Bernards face several health conditions that may shorten their lives. Thanks to modern veterinary medicine, proper training, and minimal grooming needs for some, these animals can thrive into their senior dog years—even learning new tricks in their late teens. Whether you want a dog that once helped hunt deer or just wants to nap quietly by your side, there’s a long-living, low-drama breed for every home.
