Living in a quiet apartment often means being mindful of noise levels, especially when it comes to keeping pets. The right dog breed can make a huge difference, ensuring that both the dog and the neighbors are happy. Breeds that are naturally calm, low-energy, and adaptable to small living spaces are ideal for apartment dwellers. These dogs are usually content with short walks and playing indoors, making them the perfect companion for those living in close-knit areas. In this list of the 11 best dog breeds for quiet apartments, you’ll find a mix of well-known and lesser-known breeds that excel at apartment living while maintaining a peaceful environment.
11. Basenji
The Basenji, often referred to as the “dog without bark,” is a great choice for quiet apartment living. This breed is known for its unique calls, which are more like a yodel than a bark, making it a great choice for those concerned about noise. Basenjis are small, compact dogs that adapt well to apartment living. They are relatively low maintenance and require moderate exercise and grooming. Their independent nature means they can be left alone for short periods of time without becoming anxious or destructive. However, Basenjis are intelligent and curious, so providing mental stimulation is essential to keep them content in a small living space.
10. Greyhound
Greyhounds might not seem like a good fit for apartment living due to their racing background, but they are surprisingly well suited to quiet apartments. Known as “couch potatoes,” Greyhounds are incredibly calm and low-energy indoors, preferring to relax most of the day. They are gentle and quiet, rarely barking, making them ideal for close quarters. Although they enjoy regular exercise, Greyhounds are content with a few short walks and the occasional brisk stroll in a secure area. Their affectionate and calm nature makes them perfect for apartment dwellers who want a quiet, low-maintenance companion.
9. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is one of the most popular breeds for apartment living, and for good reason. These small, sturdy dogs are known for their affectionate and easygoing natures. Frenchies are relatively quiet, rarely barking for no reason, making them perfect for a peaceful apartment environment. Their exercise needs are low, and they are often satisfied with a short walk or indoor play session. French Bulldogs are also very adaptable and can live comfortably in small spaces. Their loving and loyal personalities mean they form a close bond with their owners, making them great companions for those living in close quarters.
8. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is another great choice for apartment dwellers looking for a calm and gentle companion. These small dogs are known for their affectionate nature and love of human companionship. Cavaliers are relatively low energy and are content with short walks and indoor play. They are calm and well-behaved, rarely barking for no reason, which makes them ideal for apartment living. Their adaptable nature means they can easily adjust to the rhythm of their owner’s lifestyle, making them a perfect fit for those living in quiet, close-knit communities.
7. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a great breed for quiet apartment living due to their cheerful nature and small size. These dogs are known to be affectionate, friendly, and relatively calm, making them excellent companions in close living quarters. Bichons are also hypoallergenic, which is a bonus for those living in apartments with shared ventilation systems. Their moderate exercise needs can be met with short daily walks and indoor play. The Bichon Frise is extremely trainable and eager to please, which helps keep them well-behaved and calm even in a bustling apartment environment.
6. Shiba Inu
Shiba Inus are known for their calm and reserved nature, which makes them well suited to apartment living. These small to medium-sized dogs are independent and clean, often being compared to cats in their grooming habits. Shibas are relatively quiet, rarely barking unless there is a good reason, which is ideal for keeping the peace in a quiet apartment. They are also low-energy and are content with a few daily walks and some indoor play. Shiba Inus are known for their loyalty and can form strong bonds with their owners, providing companionship without the noise or fuss that is often associated with more vocal breeds.
5. Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is a unique and lesser-known breed that is ideal for quiet apartment living. These small dogs are known for their affectionate and calm nature, rarely barking or making a fuss. Chinese Cresteds come in two varieties: Hairless and Powderpuff, both of which shed little and require minimal grooming. Their small size makes them easy to handle in apartments, and their low exercise needs mean they are content with a short walk or some indoor play. Chinese Cresteds are also known for being very affectionate with their owners, making them great companions for people who live in close quarters.
4. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a small breed known for their calm demeanor and independence, making them a great choice for apartment living. These dogs are relatively quiet and not prone to excessive barking, which helps maintain a peaceful living environment. Lhasa Apsos are also very adaptable, able to be left alone for short periods of time without becoming anxious or destructive. Their moderate exercise needs can easily be met with daily walks and some indoor play. Additionally, the Lhasa Apso has a luxurious coat that requires regular grooming, but this can be a relaxing bonding activity for both dog and owner.
3. Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound, a smaller cousin of the Greyhound, is another great breed for quiet apartments. These beautiful, little dogs are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. Italian Greyhounds are generally very quiet, rarely barking, which makes them ideal for close quarters. They are also low-energy indoors, preferring to run around with their owners. However, they do require some exercise, which can easily be met with short walks and playtime. Their slender, delicate bodies mean they take up very little space, and their low-maintenance coats require minimal grooming, making them hassle-free pets for apartment dwellers.
2. Whippet
Whippets are another breed that may surprise people with how well they adapt to apartment living. Despite their athletic build, Whippets are known to be calm and low-energy indoors. They are often content to relax around the house and only require moderate exercise, such as short walks or the occasional run in a secure area. Whippets are also very affectionate and gentle, forming strong bonds with their owners. Their calm nature and low-maintenance needs make them a great choice for quiet apartment dwellers. Whippets also have a smooth coat that needs minimal grooming, further enhancing their suitability for apartment life.
1. Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin is the perfect breed for quiet apartment living, combining a calm temperament with a small, manageable size. These dogs are known for their quiet and reserved nature, rarely barking or making noise. Japanese Chins are highly adaptable and can comfortably live in small spaces. Their exercise needs are low, and they are often satisfied with short walks or indoor playtime. Japanese Chins are also known for their affectionate and loyal nature, forming strong bonds with their owners. Their silky coat does require regular grooming, but their overall low-maintenance lifestyle makes them an ideal choice for apartment dwellers who want a peaceful and loving companion.
Best dog breeds for quiet apartments: Find your perfect companion
Choosing the right breed of dog for a quiet apartment is essential to maintaining a peaceful living environment. The breeds mentioned above are known for their calm, quiet nature and adaptability to small living spaces. Whether you are looking for a small, affectionate companion like the Japanese Chin or a smooth, low-maintenance breed like the Whippet, there is a perfect dog for every apartment dweller. By choosing a breed that matches your lifestyle and living situation, you can enjoy the companionship of a dog without compromising the peace of your home.