Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you have to give up on the dream of having a dog. However, it’s essential to choose a breed that’s well-suited for close quarters—and that includes being relatively quiet. Whether you’re dealing with thin walls, noise-sensitive neighbors, or just value peace and calm, finding a low-barking dog is key.
In 2025, with more people living in urban spaces, the demand for apartment-friendly, quiet dog breeds has soared. Here’s a list of the top 5 quietest dog breeds perfect for apartment life this year.
1. Basenji – The Barkless Dog
Basenjis are famously known as the “barkless dogs.” Instead of barking, they produce a unique sound called a “barroo” due to their uniquely shaped larynx. These compact, elegant dogs are independent, clean, and ideal for apartment dwellers who want minimal noise. Though they’re energetic, they can adapt well to indoor living as long as they get regular exercise.
Why it’s great for apartments:
- Minimal vocalizations
- Small size and clean habits
- Low shedding and odor
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – Sweet and Serene
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are affectionate lap dogs that love nothing more than spending time with their owners. Their gentle demeanor and quiet nature make them perfect for apartment life. While they enjoy walks and playtime, they’re generally calm indoors and rarely bark unless there’s a good reason.
Why it’s great for apartments:
- Quiet and affectionate
- Easily trained and well-mannered
- Adapts well to small living spaces
3. French Bulldog – Quiet and Low-Energy
French Bulldogs have become one of the most popular apartment breeds in recent years. They rarely bark, are relatively low-energy, and don’t require much space to thrive. Frenchies are friendly, affectionate, and love lounging around the house, making them ideal companions for city living.
Why it’s great for apartments:
- Minimal barking
- Doesn’t need a lot of exercise
- Compact size and low grooming needs
4. Shih Tzu – Calm and Composed
Shih Tzus are friendly, quiet, and enjoy a relaxed indoor lifestyle. These small dogs are surprisingly sturdy and make excellent pets for families or singles in apartments. While they do require regular grooming due to their long coats, they rarely bark excessively and are generally very sociable.
Why it’s great for apartments:
- Low barking tendency
- Happy indoors and content with short walks
- Small, manageable size
5. Greyhound – Surprisingly Quiet and Lazy
Though commonly known for racing, Greyhounds are actually couch potatoes at heart. They’re quiet, gentle, and extremely low-maintenance dogs. Despite their size, Greyhounds do very well in apartments because of their calm temperament and low energy indoors.
Why it’s great for apartments:
- Quiet and non-destructive
- Needs only short bursts of exercise
- Calm, gentle, and friendly
Bottom Line
When choosing a dog for apartment living, temperament, noise level, and adaptability are crucial. The breeds listed above are not only quiet but also make excellent companions in small spaces. Whether you prefer a tiny lapdog like the Shih Tzu or a graceful Greyhound, there’s a quiet breed perfect for your urban lifestyle in 2025. Just remember: even the quietest dog needs love, exercise, and attention to thrive.
FAQs
Q1: Are quiet dog breeds easier to train?
A1: Not necessarily. Some quiet breeds are independent, like Basenjis, while others, like Cavaliers, are eager to please. Training depends on the breed’s personality.
Q2: Can quiet dogs still be active?
A2: Yes. Quiet doesn’t mean lazy. Dogs like the Basenji are very active but just don’t bark much.
Q3: What if my quiet dog starts barking excessively?
A3: Barking can result from boredom, anxiety, or changes in environment. Regular exercise and training can help manage it.
Q4: Are these breeds good with kids and other pets?
A4: Most of the breeds listed here are very sociable. Always check the breed’s temperament and socialize your dog early for best results.