Living in a quiet apartment often means being mindful of noise levels, especially when considering a pet. The right dog breed can make all the difference, ensuring that both the dog and the neighbors remain happy. Breeds that are naturally quiet, low-energy, and adaptable to smaller living spaces are ideal for apartment dwellers. These dogs are typically content with short walks and indoor play, making them perfect companions for those living in close quarters. 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 in apartment living while maintaining a peaceful environment.
11. Basenji
The Basenji, often called the “barkless dog,” is an excellent choice for quiet apartment living. This breed is known for its unique vocalizations, which are more of a yodel than a bark, making it a great option for those concerned about noise. Basenjis are small, compact dogs that adapt well to apartment life. They also have relatively low maintenance and require moderate exercise and grooming. Their independent nature means they can be left alone for short periods without becoming anxious or destructive. However, Basenjis are intelligent and curious, so providing mental stimulation is essential to keep them content in a smaller living space.
10. Greyhound
Greyhounds may seem unlikely 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 lounge around for most of the day. They are gentle and quiet, rarely barking, which makes them ideal for close living quarters. Although they enjoy regular exercise, Greyhounds are content with a few short walks and occasional bursts of speed in a safe area. Their affectionate and laid-back nature makes them a perfect match for apartment dwellers who want a quiet, low-maintenance companion.
9. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are one of the most popular breeds for apartment living, and for good reason. These small, sturdy dogs are known for their affectionate and easygoing nature. Frenchies are relatively quiet, rarely barking without cause, making them perfect for a peaceful apartment environment. Their exercise needs are minimal, and they are often satisfied with a short walk or indoor play session. French Bulldogs are also very adaptable and can comfortably live in small spaces. Their loving and loyal personality means they bond closely with their owners, making them excellent companions for those living in close quarters.
8. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is another fantastic choice for apartment dwellers seeking a quiet 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 quiet and well-mannered, rarely barking without 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 great fit for those who live in quiet, close-knit communities.
7. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are a wonderful breed for quiet apartment living due to their cheerful disposition and small size. These dogs are known for being affectionate, friendly, and relatively quiet, 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. Bichon Frises are highly trainable and eager to please, which helps keep them well-behaved and quiet, even in a bustling apartment environment.
6. Shiba Inu
Shiba Inus are known for their quiet and reserved nature, making them well-suited to apartment living. These small to medium-sized dogs are independent and clean, often compared to cats in their grooming habits. Shibas are relatively quiet, rarely barking unless there’s a good reason, which is ideal for maintaining peace in a quiet apartment. They are also low-energy and 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 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 causing a ruckus. The Chinese Crested comes in two varieties: hairless and powderpuff, both of which are low-shedding and require minimal grooming. Their small size makes them easy to manage in an apartment, 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 those who live in close quarters.
4. Lhasa Apso
Lhasa Apsos are a small breed known for their calm demeanor and independence, making them an excellent choice for apartment living. These dogs are relatively quiet and are not prone to excessive barking, which helps maintain a peaceful living environment. Lhasa Apsos are also very adaptable, capable of being left alone for short periods without becoming anxious or destructive. Their moderate exercise needs can be easily met with daily walks and some indoor play. Additionally, Lhasa Apsos has a luxurious coat that requires regular grooming, but this can be a relaxing bonding activity for both the dog and owner.
3. Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound, a smaller cousin to the Greyhound, is another excellent breed for quiet apartments. These elegant, small dogs are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. Italian Greyhounds are typically very quiet, rarely barking, which makes them ideal for close living quarters. They are also low-energy indoors, enjoying lounging around with their owners. However, they require some exercise, easily met with short walks and playtime. Their slim, delicate build means they take up very little space, and their low-maintenance coat requires minimal grooming, making them a hassle-free pet for apartment dwellers.
2. Whippet
Whippets are another breed that might surprise people with how well they adapt to apartment living. Despite their athletic build, Whippets are known for being quiet and low-energy indoors. They are often content with lounging around the house and only require moderate exercise, such as short walks or occasional runs in a safe area. Whippets are also very affectionate and gentle, forming strong bonds with their owners. Their quiet nature and low-maintenance needs make them an excellent choice for those living in quiet apartments. Whippets also have a sleek coat that requires minimal grooming, further adding to 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 minimal, 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 requires 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 Ideal Companion
Choosing the right dog breed for a quiet apartment is essential for maintaining a peaceful living environment. The breeds above are known for their calm, quiet nature and adaptability to smaller living spaces. Whether looking for a small, affectionate companion like the Japanese Chin or a sleek, low-maintenance breed like the Whippet, there’s a perfect dog for every apartment dweller. By selecting a breed that matches your lifestyle and living situation, you can enjoy the companionship of a dog without compromising the tranquility of your home.
