7 Dog Breeds Perfect for Apartment Living (That Don’t Bark Much)

Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you have to give up your dream of owning a dog. With the right breed, you can enjoy canine companionship without worrying about excessive barking or cramped spaces. At Petzooie, we’ve consulted veterinarians and dog trainers to bring you a list of seven dog breeds ideal for apartment life—breeds that are quiet, adaptable, and thrive in smaller environments. Whether you’re a first-time pet parent or a seasoned dog lover, these low-barking breeds will fit seamlessly into your urban lifestyle. Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

• Why Choose a Low-Barking Breed for Apartment Living?

• 1. French Bulldog

• 2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

• 3. Basenji

• 4. Shih Tzu

• 5. Greyhound

• 6. Boston Terrier

• 7. Pug

• Tips for Keeping Your Dog Happy in an Apartment

• Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Apartment Dog

Why Choose a Low-Barking Breed for Apartment Living?

Apartment living comes with unique challenges for dog owners: limited space, close neighbors, and noise restrictions. Excessive barking can strain relationships with neighbors or violate lease agreements. According to Dr. Sarah Thompson, a veterinarian with 10 years of experience, “Low-barking breeds are often calmer and less reactive to external stimuli, making them ideal for compact, urban settings.” These breeds also tend to have moderate exercise needs and adaptable temperaments, ensuring they stay content in smaller spaces. Below, we’ve selected breeds known for their quiet nature and apartment-friendly traits.

1. French Bulldog

Overview: French Bulldogs, or “Frenchies,” are compact, affectionate, and famously quiet. Their short snouts and smooth coats make them low-maintenance companions.

• Size: 11-13 inches, 16-28 pounds.

• Temperament: Friendly, laid-back, and people-oriented.

• Barking Level: Low—Frenchies rarely bark unless provoked.

• Apartment Fit: Their small size and minimal exercise needs (a short daily walk) suit apartments. They’re content lounging on your couch.

• Fun Fact: A 2024 American Kennel Club (AKC) survey ranked French Bulldogs as the top breed for urban dwellers.

• Care Tip: Watch for overheating due to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure. Keep walks short in hot weather.

Learn more about caring for brachycephalic breeds.

2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Overview: These elegant lap dogs are gentle, affectionate, and known for their quiet demeanor.

• Size: 12-13 inches, 13-18 pounds.

• Temperament: Sweet, adaptable, and eager to please.

• Barking Level: Low—Cavaliers bark minimally, often only to alert you of visitors.

• Apartment Fit: Their small size and moderate energy (20-30 minutes of daily exercise) make them ideal for apartments. They love cuddling with their owners.

• Stat: A 2023 study in Canine Medicine and Genetics noted Cavaliers’ calm temperament reduces stress in urban environments.

• Care Tip: Regular grooming keeps their silky coats tangle-free.

Check out our dog grooming guide.

3. Basenji

Overview: Known as the “barkless dog,” the Basenji hails from Africa and communicates with yodels instead of barks.

• Size: 16-17 inches, 22-24 pounds.

• Temperament: Independent, intelligent, and cat-like.

• Barking Level: Virtually none—yodeling is rare and quiet.

• Apartment Fit: Their compact size and moderate exercise needs (a brisk walk or play session) suit apartments, though they need mental stimulation.

• Fun Fact: Basenjis are one of the oldest dog breeds, per a 2025 Journal of Veterinary Science article.

• Care Tip: Provide puzzle toys to keep their sharp minds engaged.

Explore dog enrichment ideas.

4. Shih Tzu

Overview: Shih Tzus are small, affectionate dogs bred as royal companions in ancient China.

• Size: 9-11 inches, 9-16 pounds.

• Temperament: Friendly, relaxed, and loyal.

• Barking Level: Low—they bark only when necessary, like at unfamiliar noises.

• Apartment Fit: Their tiny size and low exercise needs (short walks or indoor play) make them perfect for apartments. They thrive on human interaction.

• Stat: A 2024 PetMD survey found Shih Tzus among the top breeds for low-maintenance apartment living.

• Care Tip: Daily brushing prevents matting in their long coats.

Discover our expert tips for caring for small dogs.

5. Greyhound

Overview: Surprisingly, retired racing Greyhounds are gentle giants who adapt well to apartments.

• Size: 27-30 inches, 60-70 pounds.

• Temperament: Calm, affectionate, and lazy (aka “couch potatoes”).

• Barking Level: Low—Greyhounds are quiet and rarely vocalize.

• Apartment Fit: Despite their size, they need only moderate exercise (one daily walk) and love napping indoors. Their calm nature suits tight spaces.

• Fun Fact: Greyhound adoption rose 15% in 2025, per the Greyhound Welfare League.

• Care Tip: Provide a soft bed to support their lean frames.

Learn about adopting rescue dogs.

6. Boston Terrier

Overview: Nicknamed “American Gentlemen,” Boston Terriers are compact, charming, and quiet.

• Size: 15-17 inches, 12-25 pounds.

• Temperament: Playful, friendly, and intelligent.

• Barking Level: Low—they bark sparingly, often only to alert.

• Apartment Fit: Their small size and moderate exercise needs (a walk or playtime) make them great for apartments. They’re adaptable to urban noise.

• Stat: A 2025 Veterinary Record study praised Boston Terriers for low stress in high-density living.

• Care Tip: Monitor their diet to prevent weight gain, common in small breeds.

Read our dog nutrition guide.

7. Pug

Overview: Pugs are wrinkly, lovable dogs with big personalities in small packages.

• Size: 10-13 inches, 14-18 pounds.

• Temperament: Affectionate, comical, and easygoing.

• Barking Level: Low—Pugs are quiet but may snore due to their flat faces.

• Apartment Fit: Their small size and minimal exercise needs (short walks) suit apartments. They’re happy shadowing their owners.

• Fun Fact: Pugs were the top small breed in urban households in 2024, per the AKC.

• Care Tip: Clean facial wrinkles regularly to prevent infections.

Discover pug care tips.

Tips for Keeping Your Dog Happy in an Apartment

Even the most apartment-friendly breeds need care to thrive. Here are expert tips:

• Exercise Regularly: Provide daily walks or indoor play to burn energy.

• Mental Stimulation: Use puzzle feeders or training games to keep dogs engaged.

• Soundproofing: Train your dog to stay calm around noises like doorbells with positive reinforcement.

• Safe Space: Create a cozy corner with a bed or crate for relaxation.

• Socialization: Expose your dog to neighbors or other pets gradually to reduce anxiety.

Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Apartment Dog

Choosing a dog breed that’s quiet and suited for apartment living lets you enjoy pet parenthood without disrupting your neighbors or lifestyle. From the cuddly French Bulldog to the unique Basenji, these seven breeds offer companionship, low barking, and adaptability for urban homes. At Petzooie, we’re here to help you find the perfect furry friend. Ready to welcome a dog into your apartment? Research these breeds, visit local shelters, and start your journey today!

Which breed is your favorite for apartment living? Share in the comments or contact us at Petzooie for more pet tips! Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest in dog care and urban pet parenting.

Explore our guide to first-time dog ownership for more advice.