10 Best Quiet Dog Breeds for Apartment Dwellers: Low Barking Dog Breeds You’ll Love
Finding the 10 best quiet dog breeds for apartment dwellers is essential for those seeking companionship without noise disturbances. Living in an apartment means close neighbors and shared walls, where barking and noise can quickly become a problem. That’s why choosing quiet dog breeds for apartments and low barking dog breeds is so important to preserve peace and harmony.
Apartment living demands calm dogs for apartment living—pets that are comfortable, relaxed, and naturally quiet. These silent apartment dogs make life easier for owners and neighbors alike by minimizing disruptive sounds and fitting smoothly into compact spaces. This post covers the best dogs that don’t bark much, detailed breed profiles of the top 10 quiet dog breeds, and why these dogs make ideal apartment companions.
Criteria for Choosing Quiet Dog Breeds for Apartments
When selecting the perfect quiet dog breeds for apartments, it’s crucial to consider specific traits that contribute to a peaceful living environment. Here are the key criteria for picking suitable breeds:
Low Barking Tendency
Breeds naturally inclined to bark less are vital to prevent noise complaints and reduce stress for both owners and neighbors. Choosing low barking dog breeds ensures a calmer apartment atmosphere.
Quiet Temperament
Dogs with a calm, even-tempered personality adapt better to apartment sounds and activities. Silent apartment dogs tend to be relaxed even when faced with typical building noises like footsteps or elevators.
Size
Small to medium-sized dogs are preferred in apartments because they require less space, are easier to manage indoors, and adapt better to confined settings.
Energy Level
Breeds with moderate to low exercise requirements fit apartment lifestyles best. High-energy dogs often become restless or noisy if they don’t get enough exercise, so low activity needs help maintain peace.
Manageable Grooming Needs
Apartment dogs benefit from coats that are easy to maintain and don’t produce excessive hair indoors. Selecting breeds with minimal grooming demands supports cleaner, more manageable living spaces.
Adaptability
An ideal apartment dog tolerates small spaces without anxiety, boredom, or destructive behaviors. Calm dogs for apartment living smoothly transition to indoor living and limited outdoor access.
Companionship
Since apartment dogs spend much of their time indoors with their owners, breeds with friendly and loyal dispositions create strong bonds and enjoy close companionship.
Health and Longevity
Breeds with robust health and long lifespans reduce unexpected vet visits and medical costs, which is important for long-term apartment dwellers.
These criteria, drawn from expert research and breed profiles, ensure practical and stress-free pet ownership in apartments.
Detailed Breed Profiles: The 10 Best Quiet Dog Breeds for Apartment Dwellers
1. Basenji
The Basenji is famously called the “barkless dog” and is one of the best dogs that don’t bark much. Instead of traditional barking, it vocalizes with unique yodel-like sounds, making it a flawless choice for noise-sensitive apartments. This breed is a true silent apartment dog with a natural quietness.
Size & Appearance: Basenjis stand about 16-17 inches tall and weigh 20-25 pounds. Their coat is short, smooth, and sleek—easy to maintain indoors. Their curled tail and upright ears add to their distinctive look, while their moderate size fits nicely into apartment living.
Temperament: An intelligent, alert, yet independent breed, Basenjis bond deeply with their owners but remain reserved with strangers. They have a calm, dignified temperament and adjust well to indoor living. Their quiet nature supports peaceful coexistence in apartment communities.
Energy Level: Basenjis have a moderate energy level. They enjoy daily walks and play but are not hyperactive or constantly restless, reducing barking from boredom or frustration.
Grooming Needs: Very low grooming is required thanks to their short coat. Occasional brushing is sufficient, and they naturally groom themselves like cats, keeping indoor shedding minimal.
Lifespan: Typically 13 to 14 years, offering long-term companionship.
Pros:
- Rarely barks
- Minimal grooming with little shedding
- Clean and odorless
- Adaptable to apartment living
Cons:
- Can be aloof or independent
- Requires mental stimulation to prevent boredom
Why It’s a Good Fit: Basenjis’ near-silent vocalizations and low maintenance make them an exceptional choice among quiet dog breeds for apartments.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Known for its gentle and affectionate nature, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an ideal lap dog and one of the friendliest among calm dogs for apartment living. It exhibits low barking tendencies and adapts well to smaller living spaces.
Size & Appearance: Standing roughly 12-13 inches tall and weighing 13-18 pounds, the breed has a silky medium-length coat, feathered ears, and expressive eyes that suit cozy indoor life.
Temperament: Affectionate, calm, and social, Cavaliers enjoy close interaction with family members and are known to be good with children and strangers. Their calm temperament suits the quieter pace of apartments perfectly.
Energy Level: Moderate energy means they love playtime but are also content relaxing by their owner’s side, supporting a peaceful indoor atmosphere.
Grooming Needs: Moderate care is necessary to prevent tangles and mats, requiring regular brushing.
Lifespan: About 12 to 15 years on average.
Pros:
- Low barking frequency
- Highly affectionate companion
- Easily trainable
- Adjusts well to family life
Cons:
- Prone to hereditary health issues (heart, ear infections)
- Medium grooming workload
Why It’s a Good Fit: The Cavalier’s quiet nature and warm disposition make it one of the best quiet dog breeds for apartments seeking affectionate, calm dogs for apartment living.
3. Borzoi
The Borzoi is a large yet surprisingly quiet and gentle breed. Also known as the Russian Wolfhound, this silent apartment dog is dignified, calm, and uses its quiet temperament to blend well in shared living spaces.
Size & Appearance: Large and elegant, Borzois measure 26-28 inches in height and can weigh up to 100 pounds. Their silky, flowing coats require attention but match their noble appearance.
Temperament: Reserved and gentle, Borzois form strong attachments to their families while maintaining independence that keeps them quiet indoors.
Energy Level: They have moderate exercise needs—daily walks and occasional sprints satisfy them, preventing restless behavior that could increase noise.
Grooming Needs: Medium grooming to avoid mats, with regular brushing necessary for their long coat.
Lifespan: They live approximately 10-12 years.
Pros:
- Very low barking tendency
- Calm and composed indoors
- Highly trainable and intelligent
Cons:
- Large size may be a challenge in small apartments
- Needs consistent coat care
Why It’s a Good Fit: Borzoi combines a quiet nature with an elegant presence suitable for owners who appreciate quiet dog breeds for apartments with low noise.
4. Japanese Chin
This small, affectionate breed is prized for its quiet disposition, making it a treasured silent apartment dog and a great fit for noise-sensitive living.
Size & Appearance: Japanese Chins are petite at 8-11 inches tall and weigh 7-11 pounds. They have a fine bone structure and a beautiful, flowing silky coat.
Temperament: They’re friendly, sensitive, and adapt well to apartment life. Their quiet demeanor makes them ideal calm dogs for apartment living, able to thrive in close quarters.
Energy Level: Low energy dogs that enjoy brief walks and gentle play without demanding strenuous exercise.
Grooming Needs: Moderate grooming with daily brushing keeps the coat mat-free and healthy.
Lifespan: Average lifespan is 10 to 12 years.
Pros:
- Very low barking frequency
- Small, portable size
- Affectionate and intelligent
Cons:
- Sensitive to sudden changes in routine
- Requires regular grooming care
Why It’s a Good Fit: The Japanese Chin’s quietness and manageable size make it an excellent choice among low barking dog breeds suited to apartment life.
5. Great Dane
Despite their large size, Great Danes are renowned for being gentle giants and remarkably calm indoors. They are well-suited for owners wanting low noise without compromising on companionship.
Size & Appearance: Very large dogs, standing up to 32 inches tall and weighing 140-175 pounds, with short coats and muscular builds.
Temperament: Calm, affectionate, and loyal, they’re typically quiet, preferring lounging to barking, even when alert or protective.
Energy Level: Low to moderate exercise needs. They enjoy daily walks but are content to rest extensively indoors.
Grooming Needs: Low grooming requirements with occasional brushing.
Lifespan: Relatively short at 7-10 years.
Pros:
- Minimal barking
- Gentle nature
- Affectionate family dogs
Cons:
- Large size demands ample indoor space
- Higher feeding costs and shorter lifespan
Why It’s a Good Fit: Great Danes combine tranquil temperaments with low vocalization, ideal for noise-conscious apartment dwellers seeking large companions.
6. Greyhound
Greyhounds defy stereotypes by being the epitome of “quiet couch potatoes.” This breed combines athletic ability with surprising indoor calmness, making it a standout quiet dog breed for apartments.
Size & Appearance: Tall and slender at 25-30 inches and 60-70 pounds, with smooth, short coats, Greyhounds have a sleek, graceful look that is easily maintained indoors.
Temperament: Laid-back, gentle, and friendly, Greyhounds tend to avoid barking and are seldom prone to separation anxiety, which supports a peaceful apartment environment.
Energy Level: Though sprinters by nature, they have low day-to-day exercise needs and are content with brief walks and indoor lounging.
Grooming Needs: Minimal—short coats require very little maintenance.
Lifespan: Lifespan averages between 10 and 14 years.
Pros:
- Extremely quiet
- Low indoors exercise demands
- Gentle and friendly disposition
Cons:
- Sensitive to cold; require warm bedding
- Low body fat means skin and joints need care
Why It’s a Good Fit: Greyhounds offer a perfect blend of low noise and easy living, prized among silent apartment dogs.
7. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are lovable, calm giants. While large, their sweet nature and low barking tendency place them among the quieter large dogs suited for apartments with space.
Size & Appearance: Very large dogs weighing 100+ pounds, with thick, water-resistant coats requiring frequent care.
Temperament: Sweet-natured, patient, and great with families, they tend not to bark excessively and often remain calm indoors.
Energy Level: Low to moderate—enjoy swimming and walking but are mostly calm inside.
Grooming Needs: High; thorough, frequent grooming is necessary to maintain their dense coat free of mats.
Lifespan: Around 8-10 years.
Pros:
- Quiet by nature
- Affectionate and friendly
- Excellent with children
Cons:
- Large size not suitable for small apartments
- High grooming requirements
Why It’s a Good Fit: For apartment dwellers with enough space, Newfoundland’s calm, quiet demeanor makes them a gentle giant companion.
8. Bernese Mountain Dog
This breed offers a calm, gentle temperament with surprisingly low barking despite its sizeable frame.
Size & Appearance: Large dogs weighing 70-115 pounds, boasting thick, tri-color coats requiring attentive grooming.
Temperament: Good-natured, affectionate, and quiet indoors, Bernese Mountain Dogs adapt well to family and apartment life where noise must be minimal.
Energy Level: Low to moderate exercise needs, satisfied with daily walks and play.
Grooming Needs: High; regular brushing is essential to control shedding and matting.
Lifespan: 6 to 8 years.
Pros:
- Calm, low barking tendency
- Affectionate with family
- Good with children and other pets
Cons:
- Large size demands space
- High grooming commitment
Why It’s a Good Fit: Bernese Mountain Dogs offer gentle companionship suited to quiet dog breeds for apartments with room to accommodate larger dogs peacefully.
9. Shih Tzu
A favorite among apartment dwellers, Shih Tzus combine friendliness with a typically quiet demeanor, making them among the most reliable low barking dog breeds.
Size & Appearance: Small dogs weighing 9-16 pounds, with long flowing coats requiring grooming.
Temperament: Friendly, calm, and affectionate, Shih Tzus thrive indoors and seldom bark without reason.
Energy Level: Low; short walks and playtime satisfy their activity needs.
Grooming Needs: Medium to high; daily brushing prevents tangles.
Lifespan: 10 to 16 years.
Pros:
- Low barking frequency
- Affectionate and adaptable
- Small and manageable
Cons:
- Requires consistent grooming
- Can be prone to separation anxiety
Shih Tzu Growth Chart
Shih Tzu Cost Info
Why It’s a Good Fit: Shih Tzus blend perfectly into apartment life by virtue of their affectionate, quiet nature and small size.
10. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are beloved for their playful, yet calm demeanor. Recognized as calm dogs for apartment living, their natural quietness fits well in urban dwellings.
Size & Appearance: Small to medium stature, 16-28 pounds, with short coats and muscular bodies.
Temperament: Playful, loving, and generally calm, French Bulldogs rarely bark and adapt to apartment life easily.
Energy Level: Moderate energy; short exercise sessions suffice without promoting excess barking.
Grooming Needs: Low; easy to maintain coats.
Lifespan: 10 to 14 years.
Pros:
- Low barking tendency
- Adaptable and friendly
- Low grooming needs
Cons:
- Prone to breathing issues
- Can be stubborn during training
French Bulldog Growth Chart
Important French Bulldog Info
Why It’s a Good Fit: French Bulldogs are among the most popular quiet dog breeds for apartments due to their affectionate nature and low noise.
Recommended Products to Support Your Quiet Apartment Dog’s Growth and Wellbeing
Proper care products can greatly enhance the comfort and health of quiet dog breeds for apartments and calm dogs for apartment living.
- CalmPaws Soothing Balm:
Relieves stress and protects paw health, especially important for walking on indoor floor surfaces. - QuietCompanion Interactive Toy:
Engages your dog mentally without creating noise, reducing boredom-induced barking. - PawMate Moisturizing Salve:
Keeps paw pads soft and healthy in dry indoor environments. - IndoorComfort Orthopedic Bed:
Supports joint and muscle health, especially beneficial for large breeds like Great Danes and Greyhounds who spend significant time indoors. - EasyTrim Nail Clippers:
Designed for safe, quiet grooming—perfect for apartment living without disturbing neighbors.
How to Cut Your Dog’s Nails - All-in-One Grooming Kit:
Essential for medium to high grooming breeds such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Japanese Chins to maintain silky, tangle-free coats.
Using these thoughtfully selected products supports your dog’s health, promotes calm behavior, and reinforces the suitability of low barking dog breeds for apartment life.
FAQs About Quiet Dog Breeds for Apartments
Are there breeds that never bark?
No dog breed is completely silent; however, the Basenji comes closest. It rarely barks and instead uses unique yodel-like vocalizations that are quieter and less disruptive, making it one of the best dogs that don’t bark much well-suited to apartments.
How to train a dog not to bark in an apartment?
Training with positive reinforcement is key. Teach a “quiet” command, gently manage known noise triggers, and ensure your dog receives enough mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom barking. Consistency is vital when working with any dog, even low barking dog breeds.
What are the best ways to keep apartment dogs calm?
Maintaining a steady routine, providing interactive toys, ensuring daily exercise, and creating cozy resting spaces are crucial. These methods support calm dogs for apartment living in maintaining peaceful, quiet behavior.
How often do quiet dog breeds need exercise indoors?
Most dogs benefit from daily walks and short indoor play sessions. Some breeds like Greyhounds require only brief activity to stay content. Balancing activity levels helps keep your quiet dog breeds for apartments mentally and physically satisfied.
Can mixed breeds also be quiet apartment dogs?
Absolutely. Mixed breeds can inherit quiet temperaments and adaptable traits from their parents, making them just as excellent choices as purebreds for apartment life.
Conclusion
Choosing the 10 best quiet dog breeds for apartment dwellers isn’t just about finding a low-barking pet—it’s about crafting a lifestyle that respects neighbors and enhances your companionship. Opting for quiet dog breeds for apartments that have calm temperaments, low barking tendencies, and manageable exercise and grooming needs promises a harmonious living environment.
Coupled with the right care and products, living with a peaceful, calm dog for apartment living is straightforward and fulfilling. Whether you favor small, medium, or even gentle giant breeds, reviewing breed profiles and selecting supportive products will prepare you for a rewarding pet-owner relationship.
Quiet, calm dogs bring immeasurable joy, comfort, and calm to urban living spaces, turning apartments into truly warm and welcoming homes.
Embrace peace and companionship with the best quiet dogs designed for apartment life.
