15 Quiet Dog Breeds for Apartments That Make Perfect Neighbors (2026)

Living in an apartment with a dog is completely doable — but choosing the right breed makes all the difference between happy neighbours and noise complaints. Whether you’re in a high-rise or a ground-floor unit, these quiet dog breeds for apartments are naturally calm, adaptable, and won’t have your neighbours knocking on your door.

We consulted veterinary professionals and surveyed apartment dwellers to put together this definitive 2026 guide. Each breed is ranked on temperament, barking tendency, exercise needs, and suitability for smaller living spaces.

Why Choosing a Quiet Breed Matters in Apartments

Noise in a shared building isn’t just an annoyance — it can lead to lease violations, strained relationships with neighbours, and a stressed dog. According to the ASPCA, dogs bark for many reasons: alerting, boredom, anxiety, or territorial behaviour. Some breeds are simply hardwired to bark less than others.

Beyond barking, apartment dogs also need to handle:

• Elevator rides and busy hallways
• Neighbours coming and going
• Limited outdoor access
• Occasional noise from above or beside

The breeds below handle all of that with grace. Check out our guide to apartment dog training tips for more on building these good habits.

The 15 Best Quiet Dog Breeds for Apartments

1. Basenji — The “Barkless” Dog

The Basenji is a unique African breed that physically cannot produce a traditional bark. Instead, it makes a charming yodel or chortle sound. Alert, curious, and cat-like in independence, Basenjis are ideal for apartment dwellers who want a low-noise companion. They need moderate exercise — a good 30-minute daily walk keeps them content.

Barking level: 1/5 | Exercise needs: Moderate | Size: Small-medium (22–24 lbs)

2. Shih Tzu

Bred as Chinese royal companions, Shih Tzus are gentle, affectionate, and relatively quiet. They may bark to alert, but rarely excessively. Their low exercise needs make them perfect for busy apartment owners. If you’re considering adopting, explore our post on rescue dog apartment adjustment tips — many Shih Tzus end up in shelters.

Barking level: 2/5 | Exercise needs: Low | Size: Small (9–16 lbs)

3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is one of the most adaptable apartment dogs in existence. Sweet-natured, quiet, and endlessly affectionate, Cavaliers thrive in small spaces. They do need daily walks but are generally content to cuddle for most of the day.

Barking level: 2/5 | Exercise needs: Low-moderate | Size: Small (12–18 lbs)

4. Whippet

Whippets look like miniature Greyhounds — and share the same quiet, gentle temperament. They’re famously low-energy indoors, rarely bark, and are deeply affectionate with their families. A couple of good runs per week keeps them satisfied. Their slim build means they don’t need a lot of floor space either.

Barking level: 1/5 | Exercise needs: Moderate (burst-based) | Size: Medium (25–40 lbs)

5. Greyhound

Contrary to popular belief, retired Greyhounds are among the calmest apartment dogs you can own. They sleep up to 18 hours a day, rarely bark, and are extremely gentle. The main adjustment is ensuring they can’t sprint off in open spaces — but inside, they’re the epitome of a couch potato.

Barking level: 1/5 | Exercise needs: Low-moderate | Size: Large (60–80 lbs)

6. French Bulldog

The French Bulldog has consistently ranked as one of the most popular apartment dogs in North America. They’re low energy, quiet, and absolutely devoted to their owners. Note: Frenchies are brachycephalic (flat-nosed), so avoid strenuous exercise in hot weather. They’re good apartment dogs because they thrive on companionship, not space.

Barking level: 2/5 | Exercise needs: Low | Size: Small-medium (under 28 lbs)

7. Bichon Frisé

These fluffy white dogs are cheerful, gentle, and surprisingly quiet for a small breed. Bichons were bred to be companion dogs — they adapt well to apartment routines and are great with neighbours’ kids they might meet in hallways. Regular grooming is a must, but their hypoallergenic coat is a bonus for allergy sufferers.

Barking level: 2/5 | Exercise needs: Low | Size: Small (12–18 lbs)

8. Maltese

The Maltese is a classic lap dog — light as a feather and quiet by nature. While they can be a bit vocal when bored, consistent training keeps barking in check. They’re highly trainable, deeply loyal, and thrive in apartment settings with regular short walks and plenty of indoor play. Stock up on puzzle toys from Amazon dog puzzle toys to keep them mentally engaged.

Barking level: 2/5 | Exercise needs: Low | Size: Small (under 7 lbs)

9. Great Dane

Another “big dog, small bark” surprise entry. Great Danes are remarkably gentle giants — they’re quiet, calm, and low energy indoors. Their main downside is sheer size: you’ll need a bigger apartment. But if space allows, a Great Dane might just be the quietest, most chill roommate you’ve ever had.

Barking level: 2/5 | Exercise needs: Moderate | Size: Giant (100–200 lbs)

10. Chinese Shar-Pei

Shar-Peis are independent, calm, and not prone to barking unless there’s a genuine reason. They’re loyal to their family but aloof with strangers — which actually reduces alert barking in apartment settings once they’re settled. Regular socialization from a young age is important. A comfortable, durable dog bed from Amazon orthopedic dog beds suits their love of lounging.

Barking level: 2/5 | Exercise needs: Low-moderate | Size: Medium-large (45–60 lbs)

11. Scottish Deerhound

Dignified and quiet, Scottish Deerhounds are gentle giants who rarely bark without purpose. Despite their large size, they’re surprisingly well-mannered indoors. They do need regular outdoor exercise to stay happy. Less common than some breeds, but wonderful for those with a spacious apartment and access to a park.

Barking level: 1/5 | Exercise needs: Moderate | Size: Large (75–110 lbs)

12. Japanese Chin

The Japanese Chin is often described as having a “cat-like” personality — quiet, graceful, and perfectly happy lounging in a small space. They rarely bark and are incredibly gentle. A great choice for older apartment residents or anyone wanting a truly low-maintenance companion.

Barking level: 1/5 | Exercise needs: Low | Size: Small (7–11 lbs)

13. Pug

Pugs are famously quiet — they grunt more than they bark. Adaptable, sociable, and comically lovable, they thrive in apartments. Like French Bulldogs, they’re brachycephalic, so keep walks short during summer heat. They’re highly food-motivated, which makes training a breeze. Consider a slow feeder bowl to curb their tendency to eat too fast.

Barking level: 2/5 | Exercise needs: Low | Size: Small (14–18 lbs)

14. Boykin Spaniel

A lesser-known gem, the Boykin Spaniel is a friendly, easygoing breed that adapts well to apartment life if properly exercised. They’re calm indoors, rarely bark excessively, and are wonderful with families. If you’re considering a low-maintenance option, also see our guide to low-maintenance dog breeds.

Barking level: 2/5 | Exercise needs: Moderate | Size: Medium (25–40 lbs)

15. Bergamasco Sheepdog

One of the more unusual picks on this list, the Bergamasco Sheepdog is a calm, intelligent breed known for its distinctive matted coat. Despite being a herding breed, they’re surprisingly quiet and adapt well to apartment routines with consistent daily exercise. A great choice for those who want something distinctive and gentle. Their grooming needs are surprisingly low once the coat fully mats.

Barking level: 2/5 | Exercise needs: Moderate | Size: Medium-large (57–84 lbs)

Tips to Keep Any Apartment Dog Quiet

Even the quietest breeds can develop barking habits without the right management. Here’s what works according to the AVMA:

• Daily exercise: A tired dog is a quiet dog. Even quiet breeds need daily walks.
• Mental stimulation: Puzzle toys, sniff mats, and training sessions burn mental energy.
• Consistent training: Teach a “quiet” cue from day one. Reward calm behaviour.
• Address anxiety early: If your dog barks from fear or separation anxiety, seek a professional trainer or vet behaviourist.
• White noise machines: These help mask hallway sounds that trigger alert barking. A quality white noise machine is a smart apartment investment.

Also consider pairing your chosen breed with a solid training foundation. Our apartment dog training guide covers everything from crate training to leash manners in small spaces.

Also Consider: Cat-Dog Apartment Combos

Some apartment dwellers find that having a quiet dog paired with a calm cat creates a harmonious household. If you’re exploring the cat side of the equation, check out our guide to the best cat breeds for apartment living.