10 Calmest Dog Breeds for Apartment Living
- Name Kennel
- Oct 23
- 3 min read
Not all dogs need wide-open fields to be happy. If you live in a flat, condo, or small home, you’ll want a breed that’s calm, adaptable, and doesn’t bark all day. Luckily, some dogs are born to be easy-going companions, happy to curl up beside you while you work, watch TV, or relax.
Here are the 10 calmest dog breeds for apartment living in 2026, perfect for peaceful homes and city life.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Gentle, quiet, and affectionate, Cavaliers are natural lap dogs. They love people, adapt easily to new spaces, and rarely bark without reason. Best for: Families or singles wanting a calm, cuddly dog. Energy: Low to moderate.
French Bulldog
One of the most popular city dogs, Frenchies are playful yet mellow. They enjoy short walks and long naps and don’t need much grooming. Bonus: They’re typically quiet, making them perfect for apartments with neighbours nearby.
Shih Tzu
Originally bred as royal lapdogs, Shih Tzus love routine and indoor comfort. They’re affectionate, loyal, and don’t require much exercise. Fun fact: Their name means “lion dog,” but they’re total sweethearts.
Basset Hound
Laid-back and lovable, Basset Hounds enjoy leisurely strolls and plenty of lounging. Their calm temperament and low activity needs make them excellent companions for relaxed homes. Caution: They can drool and shed a bit — but their personality more than makes up for it.
Pug
Pugs live for cuddles and comedy. They’re sociable, loyal, and thrive indoors with short bursts of play. Tip: Watch their diet, Pugs gain weight easily if overfed.
Great Dane
Surprisingly, these “gentle giants” are some of the calmest dogs you’ll meet. Despite their size, they’re quiet, affectionate, and adapt well to smaller spaces if exercised daily. Best for: Owners with enough floor space and a big heart.
Greyhound
Known as “couch potatoes in disguise,” retired racing Greyhounds love to lounge. They need a quick daily sprint, then they’re perfectly happy to snooze for hours. Bonus: They’re one of the cleanest, quietest large breeds.
Maltese
Lightweight, low-shedding, and affectionate, the Maltese is ideal for apartment dwellers. They’re friendly but not overly energetic, perfect for calm households or retirees.
Bulldog
English Bulldogs are famously chill. They love human company, nap frequently, and need only short walks to stay healthy. Note: Keep them cool in summer, they can overheat easily.
Bichon Frise
Soft, friendly, and hypoallergenic, the Bichon is one of the happiest small dogs around. They’re calm but sociable, making them perfect companions for families or single owners alike.
Bonus Tips for Apartment Dog Owners
Establish a daily walk routine to prevent boredom or barking.
Use puzzle feeders or snuffle mats for mental stimulation.
Create a calm “dog corner” with a bed, toys, and water bowl.
Stick to consistent feeding and potty times for easy housetraining.
FAQ
Q: Which calm dog breed is best for first-time owners?
A: The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Bichon Frise are both friendly and easy to train.
Q: What’s the quietest dog breed?
A: Greyhounds and French Bulldogs are known for rarely barking.
Q: Can big dogs live in apartments?
: Yes! Calm large breeds like Great Danes and Greyhounds adapt beautifully to small spaces.
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