Living in a shared building often requires finding a canine companion that respects the peace and quiet of neighbors. Many breeds are naturally predisposed to silence and adapt exceptionally well to smaller living spaces despite their varying sizes. Prospective owners should look for dogs with lower energy levels or those that only vocalize when absolutely necessary. The following list highlights dog breeds known for their quiet nature and suitability for apartment lifestyles.
Basenji
This unique breed is widely famous as the barkless dog from Africa. They produce a distinct yodel sound rather than a standard bark and only do so on rare occasions. These dogs possess a cat-like demeanor and groom themselves meticulously to stay clean. Their independent and quiet nature makes them a top choice for apartment dwellers who value silence.
French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is a highly popular choice for city living due to its compact size and chill attitude. They rarely bark without a significant cause and prefer lounging on the sofa over intense exercise. Their affectionate personality makes them excellent companions for tight living quarters. This breed thrives on human contact and stays content with short daily walks.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
These elegant spaniels were bred primarily to be lap dogs and affectionate companions. They are generally very quiet and friendly with strangers and other animals. Their small size allows them to fit comfortably in even the smallest studio apartments. Owners appreciate their gentle temperament and lack of excessive vocalization.
Greyhound
Many people are surprised to learn that these racing dogs are actually calm couch potatoes at home. Greyhounds are notoriously lazy indoors and rarely make noise unless excited or playing. Their short coat requires minimal grooming and sheds very little. They curl up into small balls to sleep and save their energy for occasional sprints in the park.
Pug
Pugs are known for their charming personalities and tendency to sleep for long hours. They are not prone to nuisance barking and are usually friendly with neighbors and other dogs. Their moderate exercise needs are easily met with short strolls around the block. This sturdy little breed is happy as long as it is near its owner.
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu was bred for companionship and excels at living in indoor environments. They are generally quiet dogs that alert owners only when people arrive at the door. Their happy and affectionate nature makes them wonderful pets for families in apartments. Daily maintenance of their coat is the primary commitment for this otherwise low-maintenance breed.
Whippet
Whippets are the smaller cousins of the Greyhound and share the same quiet characteristics. They are incredibly docile indoors and spend most of the day sleeping on soft surfaces. Barking is very rare for this breed and usually only happens during play. Their slender frame takes up very little space in an apartment.
Bichon Frise
This cheerful breed is known for being hypoallergenic and easy to live with in cities. They are generally polite dogs that do not bark just to hear their own voices. Bichons adapt quickly to the routines of their owners and enjoy being the center of attention. Their manageable size and friendly disposition make them ideal for elevator buildings.
Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin is an aristocratic toy breed that acts more like a cat than a dog. They are known to be extremely quiet and often use their paws to wash their faces. This breed requires very little exercise and prefers perching on high furniture to observe the room. Their silent grace is perfect for noise-sensitive housing complexes.
Havanese
Native to Cuba, the Havanese is a sturdy little dog with a playful but quiet spirit. They are natural companion animals that form strong bonds without being overly vocal. This breed is highly trainable and eager to please its owners. They fit perfectly into apartment life and get enough activity from indoor play.
English Bulldog
The English Bulldog is a heavy and dignified breed that spends much of its time napping. They are well known for being quiet and rarely barking without a serious reason. Their low energy levels mean they do not require a backyard for exercise. This breed is content with short walks and long sessions of relaxation.
Borzoi
These large Russian sighthounds are elegant and surprisingly calm indoors. Borzois are generally silent observers that carry themselves with quiet dignity. They need space to stretch out but are not hyperactive or noisy inside the home. Their gentle nature prevents them from disturbing neighbors with unwanted sounds.
Scottish Deerhound
Similar to the Borzoi, the Scottish Deerhound is a gentle giant that loves to relax. They are polite dogs that rarely bark and are friendly toward strangers. Despite their size, they are unobtrusive indoors and require only moderate exercise. This breed brings a calming presence to any home environment.
Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu is a Japanese breed known for its independence and cleanliness. They bark very little and are often described as having a dignified and reserved personality. While they can produce a high-pitched sound when distressed, they are otherwise silent companions. Their fastidious habits make them well-suited for indoor living.
Bolognese
This rare breed is a member of the Bichon family and is prized for its serious and devoted nature. The Bolognese is less active than other small dogs and tends to be very quiet. They form a close attachment to their owners and are calm when indoors. Their fluffy white coat does not shed, which is a bonus for small spaces.
Coton de Tulear
The Coton de Tulear is a happy dog known for its cotton-like coat and clownish antics. Despite their playful personality, they are not yappy dogs and bark infrequently. They adapt well to various living situations and are friendly with neighbors. This breed loves to cuddle and remains calm when the owner is relaxing.
Italian Greyhound
This toy version of the Greyhound retains the sighthound trait of being extremely quiet. Italian Greyhounds crave warmth and comfort and will happily spend all day under a blanket. They are sensitive dogs that prefer a peaceful environment without loud noises. Their tiny size makes them practically invisible in an apartment setting.
Chinese Crested
Chinese Crested dogs are affectionate companions that come in hairless and powderpuff varieties. They are intensely loyal to their family and generally do not bark at strangers. This breed prefers lying on the lap of its owner over running around. Their low exercise requirements and lack of noise make them great city pets.
Affenpinscher
Often called the monkey dog due to its facial appearance, the Affenpinscher is full of character. They can be bold but are generally not prone to nuisance barking like other terriers. This breed takes its job as a companion seriously and is calm when settled. They are small enough to exercise effectively within the confines of an apartment.
Brussels Griffon
These expressive little dogs are known for their human-like eyes and devoted personality. They tend to stick close to their owners and are not known to be vocal watchdogs. The Brussels Griffon requires minimal outdoor exercise and is happy with indoor games. Their small stature and quiet demeanor fit well in shared buildings.
Maltese
The Maltese is a classic lap dog that has been a companion to royalty for centuries. They are gentle and playful but typically refrain from excessive barking. This breed is highly adaptable to small apartments and does not need much space. Their primary focus is being near their owner and receiving affection.
Lhasa Apso
Originally bred as sentinels in Buddhist monasteries, Lhasa Apsos are watchful but not yappy. They have a calm and independent nature that suits apartment life well. This breed is content to sit quietly and observe its surroundings. They are sturdy small dogs that do not demand excessive physical activity.
Pekingese
The Pekingese is a regal breed that expects to be treated with respect and comfort. They are naturally quiet and would rather sleep on a silk cushion than bark at passersby. This breed has low energy requirements and is perfectly happy living without a yard. Their dignified attitude ensures they are rarely a nuisance to neighbors.
Skye Terrier
This distinct terrier breed is known for its long coat and loyalty. Skye Terriers are generally more serious and dignified than other terrier breeds. They are not prone to indiscriminate barking and are polite indoors. Moderate walks are sufficient to keep this breed happy and healthy.
Glen of Imaal Terrier
Unlike many terriers that are bred to be vocal, the Glen of Imaal Terrier is a strong and silent worker. They were bred to hunt silently and have retained this quiet trait. This breed is relaxed indoors and enjoys lounging with the family. They are tough but gentle dogs that fit well in urban environments.
Sealyham Terrier
The Sealyham Terrier once served as a working dog but is now a calm companion. They are known for having a humorous personality without the high energy of other terriers. This breed barks significantly less than its cousins and is polite with strangers. They enjoy a good nap as much as a short walk.
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
This breed is recognizable by the unique poof of hair on its head and its long body. Dandie Dinmont Terriers are known for their deep and baritone bark, but they use it very sparingly. They are dignified and affectionate dogs that are easy to live with. Their moderate energy levels make them suitable for apartment life.
Sussex Spaniel
The Sussex Spaniel is a slow-paced and calm dog that differs from more energetic spaniel types. They are known to be somewhat vocal when hunting but are typically quiet and placid in the home. This breed moves at a leisurely pace and does not need intense exercise. Their somber but sweet expression wins over many city dwellers.
English Toy Spaniel
These dogs are similar to Cavalier King Charles Spaniels but are even quieter and more reserved. English Toy Spaniels are true lap dogs that require very little exercise. They are extremely gentle and rarely make a sound unless necessary. This breed is perfect for a quiet apartment with a relaxed owner.
Clumber Spaniel
The Clumber Spaniel is the heaviest of the spaniels and is known for being a slow thinker and mover. They are very quiet indoors and prefer sleeping to running. This breed is affectionate and easygoing, making them great for families. While they shed, their lack of barking and low energy make them apartment-friendly.
Shar Pei
The Chinese Shar Pei is a devoted guardian that is naturally reserved and silent. They rarely bark unless they perceive a genuine threat or are playing. This breed is independent and calm indoors, often resembling a cat in behavior. Their moderate activity needs can be met with daily urban walks.
Chow Chow
Chow Chows are known for their aloof and dignified mannerisms. They are naturally quiet dogs that do not feel the need to vocalize for attention. This breed is very clean and easy to housebreak for apartment living. They are loyal to their family but generally indifferent to strangers.
Akita
Akitas are large and powerful dogs that are famous for their courage and loyalty. They are famously silent dogs that almost never bark without a significant reason. While they need space to move, their quiet nature allows them to live in apartments if exercised properly. They are fastidious self-groomers that keep the home clean.
Chinook
The Chinook is a rare breed known for its friendly and non-aggressive temperament. They are not known to be barkers and often make a wooing sound when excited. This breed is calm indoors and bonds closely with its family. They require daily exercise but settle down nicely afterwards.
Saluki
Salukis are ancient sighthounds that are reserved and gentle inside the home. They are generally quiet and do not bark without cause. This breed loves to curl up on soft furniture and sleep for hours. They need a safe area to run occasionally but are otherwise excellent indoor companions.
Great Dane
Despite their massive size, Great Danes are often called the world’s biggest lap dogs. They are relatively low-energy indoors and rarely bark. Owners need enough floor space for them to lie down, but otherwise, they are great apartment pets. Their calm demeanor prevents them from disturbing neighbors.
Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are sweet-natured giants that are famous for their patience. They are very quiet dogs that move slowly and carefully indoors. While their size is considerable, their low activity level makes them manageable in larger apartments. They are rarely vocal and prefer to stay close to their people.
Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are gentle and tolerant dogs that require surprisingly little exercise. They are quiet indoors and spend much of their time sleeping. This breed is friendly and unlikely to bark at noises in the building. Their calm temperament makes them suitable for apartment living if space permits.
Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff was bred to be a silent guardian for gamekeepers. They rarely bark and rely on their size and presence to deter intruders. This breed is inactive indoors and happy to lounge on the sofa. They are affectionate with family and require minimal exercise.
Mastiff
The English Mastiff is a colossal breed with a heart of gold. They are incredibly lazy dogs that bark very infrequently. Their low energy means they are content with short walks and lots of rest. As long as there is room for their bed, they can live happily in an apartment.
Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is the tallest of dog breeds but is also one of the gentlest. They are quiet and calm indoors, often acting like oversized rugs. This breed is friendly to everyone and does not bark as a watchdog. They need a good walk daily but are otherwise sedentary at home.
Boston Terrier
Nicknamed the American Gentleman, the Boston Terrier is polite and well-mannered. They are not yappy dogs and typically only bark when necessary. This breed is compact and requires only moderate exercise. Their friendly personality makes them popular in dense urban areas.
Leonberger
The Leonberger is a massive dog with a lion-like mane and a gentle soul. They are very quiet and patient, rarely making noise indoors. This breed bonds deeply with family and is calm enough for apartment living despite its size. They require regular walks but are not hyperactive in the home.
Bernese Mountain Dog
These striking tri-colored dogs are known for their calm and affectionate nature. They are generally quiet indoors and are not prone to nuisance barking. While they enjoy outdoor activities, they settle down well inside. Their gentle disposition makes them good neighbors in apartment buildings.
Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a hound that is dignified and reserved with strangers. They are known to be very quiet dogs that do not bark without a reason. This breed is athletic but has an off-switch when indoors. They are clean and respectful, making them suitable for apartment life with adequate exercise.
Please share your own experiences with these breeds or suggest other quiet dogs in the comments.
