I am looking for a small dog but not sure which type to go for as im living in an apartment it has to be a dog which doent have loads of energy and that is quite plasid and does bark all that much does any one have any suggestions

I have a question for you: how much time is this dog going to be spending alone? If it's going to be alone a lot, then you might actually want to look at larger breeds as they tend to be more independent and there are several that require only moderate exercise. If you are able to spend a fair amount of time with the dog, then you should look for breeds meant to be lap dogs: things like shih-tzus, papillons, and toy dogs in general. Avoid most terriers, they are small and cute, but have TONS of energy. Poodles make good lap dogs, but can be barkers (I know, I have one). Hope this helps a little.

Small dogs tend to have barking complexes. It's the only super power they have. I agree that owning a dog in an apartment is going to be tough, but if you plan to spend a lot of time with your friend you can definately make it work. I lived downtown Portland, OR for a couple of years and my neighbor across the hall had a little dog. Barked like crazy... so she was lucky it didn't bother us. It also ate her kitchen floor one day because it was bored and she left it home alone too long. I had a dog that ate a hole in my wall as well... so puppy proofing is not always possible Just a warning.

Since I always recommend adopting, I would call your local shelter. Tell them what you want the dog for and they can tell you if they have a dog with that personality. Since they examine the dogs and do behaviour training, they will know the dogs personality in advance.

[lil mutt]

i dont know that much about dog's characteristics but i have a small dog... well my mom is always here in the house so she's never been left alone in the house.

[Yogi]

one thing to note about Toy breed dogs, not all are lap dogs. The Miniature Pinscher is in fact one of the oldest Terriers in the world. Stupidity on the part of the AKC is the only reason they are listed in the toy group as in Canada and the UK. Everywhere else, they are Terriers that compete against German Pinschers and Schnauzers. These are not by nature lap dogs and are and can be more energetic than a Parson John Russell Terrier (JRT) or the American Rat Terrier.
This list might help give you some idea. Note though that you still need to research each to determine which is best suited for your lifestyle as a dog is not a possession but a family member that need care and nurturing along the way.
Top Dog Breeds for Apartment Life

[wishbone]

Calling or visiting a shelter would be a good step getting a dog that will fits to your place. They know a lot about dog behavior plus they have tips and advices for you and caring for your dog.