Love dogs but hate the noise? You’re not alone. Many dog lovers prefer companions that are calm and generally quiet. The good thing is, several dog breeds that barely bark at all make perfect pets for peaceful homes and apartments.
Dogs bark for many reasons; it’s how they get your attention, warn about danger, or talk to other dogs. But barking habits vary by breed!
Some dogs bark because they’re stressed or anxious, especially when left alone, while herding breeds bark to control livestock. Quiet dogs are usually well-socialized, less anxious, and more confident in different situations.
If you’re looking for a loyal, quiet pup that won’t disturb your neighbors, these quiet dog breeds may be just what you need. Let’s explore seven breeds that bring love without the loud noise.
Dog Breeds That Barely Bark At All
1. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a gentle giant with a big heart, too. The Bernese Mountain Dog is a big dog that rarely barks without a threat. Although Bernese are huge dogs, they tend to be silent and do not make sounds unless posed with a serious threat.
Purina mentions that this breed is typically affectionate, protective, and remarkably peaceful around children. They can alert when they see an unknown person coming to the door, but they will not bark out of sheer excitement.
They are very calm pups, thus making them suitable for families that lead calm lives, even in the presence of pets such as cats. They have also received a good reputation as non-yappy dogs that love spending time with their owners.
2. French Bulldog
Known for their comical faces and laid-back personality, the French Bulldog is a favorite among urban dwellers. These small dogs may be short in stature, but they’re long on charm, and generally quiet by nature.
French Bulldogs don’t tend to bark without reason. Instead, they prefer to communicate through body language, soft grunts, and soulful eyes. They’re alert but not aggressive, and they rarely feel the need to bark unless something surprises them.
Their loving disposition and low noise levels make them ideal for apartments, especially if you’re trying to keep the neighbors happy.
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel makes a wonderful pet because it is a loving, quiet dog breed that gets along well with children. These pups are lovable, playful, and enjoy cuddling. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are prone to wagging their tails in a welcoming gesture towards strangers.
They have a sweet temperament and are easygoing, making them well-suited for houses and apartments. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are a leading choice among breeds, as they rarely bark. These pups love peace and want to take a snooze, not a peep.
4. Basenji
Basenji has one of the most unique reputations in the dog world, as it is commonly referred to as the barkless dog. That does not mean that they are silent. The Basenji does not affect the barking; rather, it produces a characteristic yodel-like noise, often described as a baroo.
The pups used in hunting were initially raised in Africa and are prone to chasing small animals. Hence, during exercise, they should be kept on a leash. These hunting dogs often worked in packs, relying more on stealth and speed than sound. However, in noise, Basenji manages impressively well to keep it down.
As an independent streak, they might seem stubborn and do not react well to training immediately, but nothing compares to their quietness.
Basenjis require mental stimulation to avoid boredom, which can sometimes lead to mischief rather than barking. Britannica even ranks them among the quietest dog breeds on the planet.
5. Saluki
The Saluki is elegant and refined, belonging to one of the oldest-known hound breeds, and its pedigree dates back to ancient Egypt. This type of dog is quiet and unassertive, preferring to observe or follow the world from a distance, rather than rushing into it.
Even in their past glory as a prized hunter, the Saluki of today stands dignified and more often renders itself quiet. They have alert senses and will see things before you do, but unless it is essential, they will not make a sound. Salukis tend to follow their own rule when it comes to interacting with strangers—they observe more than react.
They are ideal companions in casual homes where they can run and also hide in silence. They are not aggressive, but they are emotionally intelligent due to their strong loyalty to their owners.
6. Borzoi
The Borzoi can also be called the Russian Wolfhound, a tall, graceful breed with a quiet soul. Although these are originally hunting dogs, they are not yappy. They tend to move in silence, observe their surroundings, and do not make much noise unless something comes to their attention.
Since Borzois are hounds, there may be some temptation to chase after small dogs, so supervision is essential. Nevertheless, their graceful nature and relaxed pace of life make them one of the best choices a person can have who wants a quiet dog that does not make noise without any good cause.
This gives them a regal presence, although despite their long fur and cat-like behaviour as well as elegant structure, they love to play and enjoy spending time with their owners when they feel safe and secure.
7. Whippet
The Whippet can be fast, but inside, they become well-behaved, composed, and friendly. These are pups that are thought of as playful outdoors and also very indulgent in taking outdoor naps.
Although of hunting dog origin, they are generally calm and do not bark frequently. They peep out a bit in case something frightens them, and otherwise, seem perfectly happy to lounge along with you in peaceful friendship. They love to play with their owners but remain calm and quiet indoors.
WebMD notes that the Whippet is a low-maintenance, docile, and relaxed pup, ideal for someone looking to enjoy every benefit of having a dog without the noise.
They are one of the most peaceful breeds of dogs as they are great with the kids, are easy to train, and are emotionally sensitive.
Conclusion
Are you looking to share your home with a pup that will not jump and bark at every sound it hears outside? If you are, consider a dog breed that rarely barks.
From the beautiful Saluki to the playful Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, these are some quiet dogs to prove that you do not need a dog to be talkative to be a loyal and affectionate companion.
Whether you would prefer to have a small dog, such as a French Bulldog, or a gentle giant, such as the Bernese Mountain Dog, you can have a dog that will make your life sweet with love, not noise. If you decide to adopt a quiet dog breed, consider your lifestyle and the level of noise you’re comfortable with.
However, training is essential for all the dog breeds. Even the most silent dogs can bark two or three times when they get bored, feel threatened, or just need to communicate. Still, if you’d rather hear your dog’s happy sighs than a chorus of barking, these breeds are a wonderful place to start.
