15 Best Apartment-Friendly Dog Breeds That Won’t Annoy Your Neighbors

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Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t have a furry best friend. While some dogs need big yards, others thrive in cozy spaces without causing chaos. The best apartment-friendly dogs are quiet, respect shared walls, and don’t require hours of exercise. Whether you want a calm lap dog or a peaceful companion who won’t disturb the neighbors, there’s a perfect breed for you. These adaptable pups make great roommates, bringing love and companionship while keeping the peace—and your landlord happy.

French Bulldog

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The French Bulldog is the ultimate apartment dog—compact, quiet, and endlessly charming. These little goofballs don’t bark much, making them the perfect choice for close quarters where noise levels matter. Despite their playful personality, they don’t require excessive exercise and are content with short walks and lounging on the couch. Their affectionate nature and easygoing attitude make them ideal for city life, and their adorable face is just a bonus.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

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The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a top contender if you’re looking for a sweet and loving companion that thrives in an apartment setting. These dogs are small but full of love, always eager to cuddle rather than cause chaos. They are polite, relatively quiet, and adapt well to various living situations, as long as they get enough affection. Their friendly nature means they won’t be barking at every little noise, keeping both you and your neighbors happy.

Greyhound

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Greyhounds are surprisingly well-suited for apartment living despite their reputation as racing dogs. When they’re not zooming around in short bursts, they’re professional couch potatoes who love nothing more than lounging. Their quiet and calm demeanor makes them a great choice for apartments, as they are not excessive barkers and prefer relaxing over causing a fuss. Give them a comfy spot to nap, and they’ll be the most chill roommates you’ve ever had.

Basenji

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Known as the “barkless dog,” the Basenji is a dream for apartment dwellers who want peace and quiet. While they don’t bark, they do make amusing yodel-like sounds, but overall, they’re much quieter than most breeds. These independent and clean dogs have low-maintenance grooming needs and don’t require excessive exercise. The Basenji is a fantastic choice if you want a dog that respects your peace and quiet and has a quirky personality.

Shih Tzu

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Shih Tzus are born to be pampered and are more interested in lounging on your lap than causing trouble. Their small size makes them ideal for apartments, and they don’t need a massive backyard to stay happy. While they can be a little sassy, they’re generally quiet and don’t bark excessively, which is always a win in close living quarters. Give them a comfy bed and a little attention, and they’ll be the happiest dogs in the building.

Italian Greyhound

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Italian Greyhounds are smaller versions of their full-sized Greyhound cousins, making them even more perfect for apartment life. These dainty dogs are incredibly affectionate and love curling up under blankets, making them great cuddle companions. They are relatively low-energy indoors and won’t be bouncing off the walls as long as they get their daily walk. Their quiet and reserved nature makes them excellent neighbors who won’t cause any unnecessary noise complaints.

Bichon Frise

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The Bichon Frise is as close as possible to a living teddy bear, with the added bonus of being great for apartment living. These small, happy dogs have a cheerful personality but aren’t known for excessive barking. They adapt well to small spaces and love being around their humans, making them the perfect fit for a cozy apartment lifestyle. Plus, their hypoallergenic coat makes them a great choice for people with allergies.

Pug

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Pugs were practically made for apartment life with their small size, low exercise needs, and love for human companionship. These little clowns are content to lounge around most of the day, only needing a short walk to stay happy. They’re generally quiet dogs and won’t disturb your neighbors with constant barking—unless they see food, then all bets are off. With their charming personalities and adorable faces, they make wonderful city companions.

Havanese

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The Havanese is a small, affectionate breed that thrives in apartment settings. It is social but not overly demanding, and while it enjoys a bit of playtime, it doesn’t require excessive exercise. Its friendly and adaptable nature means it gets along well with neighbors, and its quiet demeanor makes it peaceful in any building. If you’re looking for a fluffy, loving dog that won’t drive your neighbors crazy, the Havanese is a solid pick.

Dachshund

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Dachshunds may be small, but their personalities are larger than life. While they can be a little stubborn, they are generally good apartment dogs due to their compact size and moderate exercise needs. They love burrowing under blankets and being close to their owners, making them excellent lap dogs. With proper training, they won’t become excessive barkers, keeping you in your neighbors’ good graces.

Chinese Crested

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If you want a dog with a unique look and a quiet personality, the Chinese Crested is a fantastic choice. These small, low-energy dogs don’t bark much and are more interested in snuggling than causing a commotion. Their hairless variety means minimal shedding, making them great for keeping your apartment clean. They’re quirky, affectionate, and content in smaller spaces, making them ideal for city living.

Coton de Tulear

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The Coton de Tulear is a fluffy, affectionate dog bred to be a companion, making it perfect for apartment dwellers. They are small, adaptable, and don’t require much exercise to stay happy. While they enjoy playing, they’re not hyperactive, and their friendly nature makes them well-liked by neighbors. Their soft, cotton-like coat is an added bonus to their charming personality.

Lhasa Apso

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Originally bred to guard Tibetan monasteries, Lhasa Apsos are naturally alert but not excessive barkers. These small but sturdy dogs are independent and confident, making them great for apartment living. They don’t require much space, and while they enjoy walks, they’re not overly energetic. Their luxurious coat gives them a regal look, and they’re just as happy lounging as they keep an eye on their home.

Japanese Chin

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The Japanese Chin is a cat-like dog that loves perching on furniture and observing the world around them. These elegant little dogs are quiet, making them excellent for apartments where excessive noise is a concern. They enjoy human companionship but are also independent enough to entertain themselves when needed. With their small size and polite nature, they make wonderful pets for city dwellers.

Boston Terrier

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Boston Terriers are affectionate, intelligent, and adaptable, making them a great choice for apartment living. They have a moderate energy level, so they enjoy playtime but also know how to relax. Their compact size makes them easy to manage in smaller spaces, and their friendly nature ensures they won’t cause trouble with neighbors. As long as they get their daily walk, they’re content to chill and be the perfect apartment companion.

The Best Roommates Have Four Legs and Zero Noise Complaints

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Apartment life doesn’t mean you must settle for a pet rock—these dogs prove that small-space living can still include a loving, furry companion. Whether you prefer a quiet couch potato or a small, playful pup, these breeds can enjoy apartment life without making enemies in the building. They respect shared walls, don’t throw late-night barking parties, and are happy with cozy spaces. So, if you want a dog that keeps things peaceful while still being the best roommate ever, one of these apartment-friendly breeds is ready to move in!