30 Most Quiet Dog Breeds Perfect for Apartment Living

March 10, 2021 Kar-Bay-Inc 0 Comments

Some future dog owners are forced to be more picky about the exact breed they can adopt and share a home with. If you live in an apartment or condo, some of the most quiet dog breeds may be first on your list.

Why Do Some Breeds Bark More than Others?

Dogs were bred for different reasons. With some breeds, being loud and barking a lot was considered an advantage and for others the opposite is true.

However, scientists found that genetics play the largest role in how loud and how often a specific dog breed barks. In a 2010 study, scientists tested a number of breeds and they found that wolf breeds (Shar-peis, Basenjis and Chow Chows) are generally more quiet and bark less.

Propensity to bark isn’t the only factor to consider, however.

The barking type should also matter if you’re looking for the most quiet dog breed for apartment or condo. Two studies, a 2000 one and 2004 one, found that barking among many different breeds have variable acoustic structure, and depending on the dog and intentions, frequency of a bark can range from 160 Hz up to 2630 Hz. This was better broken down in another 2000 study where researchers discovered how different breeds tend to use specific “barking types” more or less often.

Some dogs are also more predisposed for medical conditions that’ll make them “louder” or “quieter”. Breeds that commonly deal with respiratory conditions, chronic vomiting, larynx or trachea problems, and metabolic disorders will bark more to alert of issues, or bark less simply because they cannot. For example, Bouvier des Flandres is known to have paralysis of the larynx as an inherited condition, and they’re unlikely to bark a lot.

Finally, temperament of the dog is a factor. Dogs bark for different reasons, and the more acute and sensitive a dog is to barking triggers, the more likely they are to bark. This comes down to meeting your dog’s needs to keep them quite (e.g. providing more exercise or playtime to keep so your dog is too tired to bark).

30 Most Quiet Dog Breeds for Apartment Living

1. Pug

The first on the list of most silent dogs is, of course, Pug (pictured above). The very famous and lovely pet dog, Pug is a breed known for many reasons, from loving to eat and nap, to being the breed that knows no violence, for it was simply left out of their genetic code.

A Pug will bark only when feeling extremely endangered or very hungry, while his playful barking is usually replaced with heavy breathing due to his corpulent build. Pugs are one of America’s most popular dogs and their popularity keeps rising due to their interesting and cute looks and great personality.

2. Great Dane

Regardless of their terrifying size, the Great Dane is considered one of the most quiet dog breeds a future pet owner can adopt. They have no need to prove their dominion to anyone due to their imposing height and weight, and are one of the more intelligent breeds.

Their very appearance makes the situation quite clear to any potential perpetrator; all a Great Dane needs to do is take a quick glance. The strongest and loudest bark of all dogs is rarely heard from this calm and loving creature, and if you can fit this dog into your apartment, it’s certainly one of the best to adopt.

3. Basenji

Out of all the most quiet dogs breeds, Basenji dog breed may take the cake for one simple reason, even though it isn’t of the most passive sort. Have you ever heard a Basenji bark? You certainly haven’t, because they literally don’t know how. Basenji is the most silent dog which is perfect for apartments, but it comes with its own set of cons.

Generally, the Basenji dog release yodeling noises instead of barking, and very rarely at that. Their lack of barking is replaced by their guts of steel. They’re used for lion hunting in Africa, thanks to their yodeling and extreme intelligence. While it’s a silent dog, it’s not the best one for first-time or busy owners as they can be difficult to care for.

4. Whippet

This slender hunting hound dog is used to action as much as it enjoys relaxing on a pillow or dog bed, and prancing around its living area without making a sound, keeping it mostly to itself. It’s a friendly breed but not the most lap-friendly dog out there.

The Whippet is a highly disciplined breed with little need for attention and a very docile temper. They are perfect for owners looking for silent dog breeds and especially for living in apartment complexes or condos where it’s best to have the dog stay quiet.

5. Bernese Mountain Dog

Easily one of the most adorable and popular breeds out there, the Bernese Mountain Dog can be absolutely perfect for apartment living. Although they may scare curious strangers due to their size and similar look to a Rottweiler, these dogs are very gentle and quiet giants.

The Bernese Mountain Dog is always seeking new friends and adventure, and it’s one of the most friendly dogs out there. They are a very sociable and polite breed who gets a long with humans, strangers and other animals. While their size may not be ideal for an apartment setting, they are one of the most quiet dog breeds on the planet.

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6. Borzoi

The legendary Russian sight-hound (pictured above), a very old breed with roots that run quite deep back to the Czars’ hunting with dogs days. It’s a one of the fastest dogs on the planet. What makes Borzoi a perfect roommate is the fact that it’s very tranquil in the presence of strangers, the exact opposite of a guard dog.

Borzoi breed is one of the most quiet dogs you can adopt, but it requires a lot of exercise and plenty of grooming. Add to that fact their size, and while being a silent dog, it may not be a totally perfect specimen for small apartment living but they will certainly not disturb your neighbors if you do choose to adopt this pooch.

7. Chinese Shar-Pei

Chinese Shar-Peis are popular homebody companions to many pet parents today, but this rumpled breed was used in ancient China for protection and alertness. A very unique looking, cute and cuddly, this is a great companion to spend an evening watching TV with.

However, even being a breed used for safeguarding owners and their homes, they never bark for no reason, in spite of what a usual guard dog often does. Only in the cases where a Shar-Pei is overwhelmed by its feelings will you hear him bark, which generally makes it a perfect pet for an apartment with a zero tolerance towards noise.

8. Collie

Although known all over the world for their herding ability, Collie’s intelligence surpasses its barking and running skills, as we have already seen in “Lassie.” The breed is not only one of the most quietest dogs out there but it’s also very intelligent.

These dogs make a perfect silent indoor companion for apartment dwellers who have time to spend with their pets. Collies are full of energy and they sure need a place to spend it, but they’re extremely polite and trainable, meaning utmost obedience. On the negative side, they will require a lot of grooming and maintenance.

9. Italian Greyhound

A rare breed to see in apartment these days is an Italian Greyhound. However, that’s definitely not due to them being noisy in any way. They’re the fastest breed on the planet and have been bred specifically for that reason among hunters.

Prone to being stressed out when exposed to noisy conditions and crowded areas, the smallest sighthound in the world prefers a placid living space. Needless to say, pointless barking is the last thing on the Italian Greyhound’s agenda, but this dog may still not be the best one for an apartment living.

10. Newfoundland Dog

Another calm, colossal breed, the Newfoundland Dog is famous for its phlegmatic behavior. However, the sheer size of this magnificent dog makes strangers stick to their own business, regardless of the lack of aggression in its temperament. That same size also makes this bear-like dog extremely cuddly.

Newfoundland dogs are a perfect choice for introverted owners, those who love to spend time close to their huge companions, and it’s certainly one of the most quiet dog breeds you can adopt. They’re generally friendly and very protective, which is why it’s one of the most popular working dog breeds particularly known for saving missions. If you have the space in the apartment, and time to groom this dog, then this silent dog is worth adopting.

11. Saint Bernard

Speaking of working dog breeds known for working on missions where they save lives, here’s another famous one – Saint Bernard (pictured above). While generally a quiet dog, this breed can in fact be somewhat of a nuisance barker when strangers are present, but still very collected in its living space and generally good for apartment living.

Saint Bernard dogs are very sociable and loving, feeling little to no need to make noise in the presence of their owner, and are rarely seen barking. So if you train your St Bernard dog right and from the early age, he can be quiet whenever he needs to be.

12. Saluki

The Saluki is a gorgeous, silk-haired sight hound known for its hunting skills and abilities. They are reserved and generally keep to themselves. Even though it may appear distant to strangers, it is still quite affectionate with its owner and respectful to its living area.

Saluki dogs never bark for no reason, meaning there are only a few cases where this breed can get noisy, and those can usually be prevented by the owner. When training a Saluki breed from puppy age, this dog can be the quietest breed out there.

13. Irish Setter

Here’s another well-known breed from appearing on tons of TV ads that’s also a silent dog many didn’t expect it to be. Known for being a keen gun dog, the Irish Setter also makes a wonderful companion for families. While this breed brims with excessive energy, it never spends it on nuisance barking.

Pet owners thinking of adopting this quiet dog need to keep in mind their high energy levels and requirements for plenty of exercise and playtime. However, if provided with regular exercise, this dog makes a perfect choice for both singles, couples and families living in apartments or condos. While their coat requires quite a bit of grooming, they are a lovable and loyal breed that is easy to care for if you have the time.

14. Rhodesian Ridgeback

Rhodesian Ridgeback is a pompous breed with a protective gaze and an emotional temperament. Originally coming from Rhodesia, they are one of the best guard dogs and have been bred in South Africa specifically for this reason – as protectors of cattle and farms from lions and other large predators.

The genes of Rhodesia Ridgeback are still there, which is why these dogs are known for their devotion to their owners, and you’ll often see your pet placing himself in front of his loved ones in the face of threats before letting out a noise. Except for very extreme situations, this is one of the most silent dog breeds out there who deals with problems with actions, not talking.

15. Golden Retriever

Easily the most recognizable and popular breed in America today, the Golden Retriever is a true people-lover with a free and friendly spirit, overflowing with energy and the desire for adventure. They love spending time with their owners, are friendly with kids and other dogs and even strangers, making them a poor guard dog but a fairly silent breed.

Goldens, are they are usually called, do make noise now and again, and may let out a bark or two when they’re excited (which they most often are), but if their energy is well-spent, noisiness is the last thing you can expect. Just remember to exercise your Golden Fido, spend plenty of time exhausting your pet, which is what works for any canine.

16. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

You’ll find Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (pictured above) to be a petite, playful and affectionate breed, completely in love with their owners and quite scared of being left alone. As long as you feed your CKCS the appropriate food and exercise them occasionally, this somewhat lazy dog breed will stay healthy and live a long time.

While their emotions may sometimes make them stubborn, a little loving and training will always do the trick. That, paired with their size makes them a great dog for small apartments, too and it’s also one of the most cuddly, couch-friendly lap dogs out there.

17. Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff is the perfect example of loyalty amongst the canines. This breed embodies will and devotion, and similar to Great Danes, their sheer size, weight and nature is plenty to intimidate whoever they need to intimidate without making a single bark.

This is a very quiet dog that’s good as long as you have the room for its size. The only case where a Bullmastiff will exhibit any nuisance barking is when in the presence of another dog (especially of the same gender), or a cat, because of their strong hunting instinct and desire to be the only alpha dog in the room.

18. Great Pyrenees

It’s a small wonder that there are so many large breeds on this list, as they usually come with big hearts and little need to prove themselves. Hence, like its lookalikes, the Great Pyrenees makes a perfect apartment dweller, with the same emotional qualities as the preceding big canines I mentioned above.

Great Pyrenees dogs are very intelligent animals with a steady temperament. Patient, calm and smart, the Great Pyrenees makes a wonderful family dog. They are relatively easy to train and will make for absolutely wonderful companions for those living in apartments due to their silent nature and generally not being bothered by anything or anyone.

19. Chinook

The Chinook is a very rare breed of sled dog that was created in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. You will rarely see them as pet dogs in most places across the U.S. but that doesn’t mean they can’t be a great companion when living in apartments or condo complexes.

A very patient and intelligent dogs, they are well known for their devotion to pleasing their owner. The Chinook is happy as long as you are, meaning he won’t bark if you don’t like it, which is why it’s on the most quiet dog breeds list. So as long as you train your Fido right and show an example of what not to do, this can be an easy winner on the list.

20. Scottish Deerhound

As the very name would imply, this big, slender dog was bred specifically for deer hunting and known for their great skills at assisting hunters. This means the Scottish Deerhound is one of the most quiet dog breeds by nature, and would take running over barking any day.

These dogs may be large, but they are also gentle and extremely friendly. Scottish Deerhound dogs are easy to please and bond strongly with their owners. They do a lot of space to romp, so city dwellers will need to take them for frequent jaunts in the park. If you can’t exercise your Fido enough, then it may not be the best choice for you.

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21. Sloughi

Another rare breed that might not be the most silent of dogs compared to many others already mentioned, the Sloughi is somewhat instinctively unwelcome towards strangers due to its stubbornness, but highly committed to maintaining the atmosphere you prefer after you train them.

These dogs are not recommended for first time dog owners for many reasons, but they can be a great option for experienced pup lovers who know how to teach and handle their pets in the right way, and have the time and patience to work with this canine.

22. English Bulldog

Known for their laziness, you may not be surprised to see the English Bulldog on this list of the most quiet dog breeds. English Bulldogs are quiet simply because it’s too much bothered to let out the bark, and they prefer to lay around, eat, cuddle and occasionally exercise. You will not hear this dog bark too often.

With no need for introduction, this passive breed finds it easy to remain calm. Most pet owners who’ve adopted an English Bulldog will be the first to say how they watch these dogs spend most of their time either sleeping, eating their favorite foods, or being super lazy at something else. An English Bulldog will bark only in extreme situations and is one of the best couch potato dog buddies.

23. Leonberger

Another gigantic breed with a placid and affectionate nature, the Leonberger will be a friend like no other. Similar to many other dogs of this kind, they do not need to bark to intimidate thus they are one of the more quiet breeds out there. They’re also great at protecting their owners and homes, and have strong instinct to do that, as well as one of the strongest bites of all dogs.

What sets these dogs apart from the other large breeds mentioned above like Great Dane or Bullmastiff is that they require more training than usual if you wish to teach them how to live in a condo or apartment complex. However, this breed is still very polite and amiable nonetheless.

24. English Toy Spaniel

English Toy Spaniel breed is a close cousin of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, but not as famous, yet it’s still recognizable (likely often confused with the popular CKCS dog too). And similar to its relative, the English Toy Spaniel is also one of the most silent dogs you can adopt.

Similar qualities like loyalty and calmness go for this type of Spaniel as well. The English Toy Spaniel prefers their owner’s company over anything, as it gives them confidence and tranquility, and will remain mostly calm and quiet at all times.

25. Bolognese

The Bolognese is the main choice for anyone in need of one of the most quite dog breeds that is also petite, which makes them great for apartment living where you have neighbors. They are very easy to spoil, but almost nothing can disturb their quietness, which is why you’ll find them on most lists of quiet dog breeds.

While this dog loves to be with his family, he can also be a bit stubborn and may use sneaky tactics to get his way to get what he wants. It can be argued that while very popular, this is not the best pooch to adopt for first time or busy pet owners. However, a bit of dog training basics, conditioning and a firm hand will help to nip this behavior in the bud and you’ll have a loyal, quiet companion by your side.

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26. Azawakh

Surely one of the most odd names on this list, the Azawakh breed was named after the Azawakh Valley in Sahara, its place of origin. While it is quite loyal, protective and sometimes slightly arrogant, the Azawakh’s lack of rudeness provides their homes with a royal servant and a true friend most of all.

They are generally a quiet dog breed as long as their needs are met and they aren’t agitated or otherwise given a reason to bark. While a silent breed, it may not be the most perfect type of dog for apartments due to their high energy levels and strong need to exercise a lot every day.

27. Afghan Hound

Similar to the Borzoi mentioned above, as well as stunning, Afghan Hound is a luxuriously coated breed that is rarely alerted by strangers unless trained to do so. While they may often be silent, they do require tedious grooming and bathing, which makes them hard to care for if you travel a lot or stay busy most of the time.

Nevertheless, these breeds are still often seen with pet owners living in apartments and condos without any issues, and being one of the most beautiful dogs out there, you’ll also notice them as common competitors in dog shows. Despite their strong grooming requirements, their quiet nature and lax temperament makes them a perfect companion for the right type of pet owner.

28. Swedish Vallhund

The Swedish Vallhund is a cute dog breed that originated as a replacement for the workforce. Similar it size, looks and nature to the more famous Corgi dogs (but bigger, thinner and less cuddly), these ones are far more quite and are considered a silent dog breed that won’t bother your neighbors as much as a loud Corgi would.

Swedish Vallhund dogs in no way lack intelligence or obedience too, making them not only one of the most clever breeds but also one of the most quiet dog breeds you can adopt. Swedish Vallhunds are very active animals and will need active owners, but they will be well behaved as long as there is always time to burn off all that excess energy.

29. Japanese Chin

The Japanese Chin is a small, long-furred breed which, in spite of popular belief when it comes to smaller dogs, does not speak too much and can be a very quiet dog if treated right. There is no need to accommodate this canine to quiet surroundings, as it is quite calm itself and will stay silent most of the time unlike many other small breeds.

Some people compare these dogs to cats, saying that they are extremely intelligent and very independent, thus not being the greatest lap dog out there. If you’re looking for one of the most quiet dog breeds that won’t need a lot of one-on-one attention, the Japanese Chin is for you.

30. Akita

The final pick on the list of most quiet dog breeds is another popular and lovely breed – Akita. With pride that can rival that of most humans, an Akita is simply too proud to descend to something as low as barking, and they (as well as their owners) know it. With this dog, you will have a silent canine companion but you will have to work with the dog on its other stubborn temperament issues and needs.

Akita dogs are very well known and recognized in their country of origin, Japan, as the “Silent Hunter”. They are an extremely intelligent breed that will make you think twice before choosing amongst any of these most quiet dog breeds. Another definite winner on the list, provided you can handle the training of your Akita and have the time and patience to keep it exercised.