Imagine getting home from a long and tiring day at work and having a conversation with your furry friend. Several dog breeds are emotionally wired to connect to human sentiments. They often respond to their owner’s mood quite empathetically.
While some dogs are too vocal and communicate loudly, certain breeds bark softly. Such dogs tend to remain calm and gentle when their owners are upset. These loyal dogs are prized for their emotional sensitivity and for offering comfort through quiet companionship.
Barking is an important factor to consider when bringing a dog into your home. Especially if you live in an apartment or your neighbors live close by, the last thing you would want is a dog that barks too much. Quiet dog breeds can be a better option for peace lovers and apartment dwellers.
Here are the top 9 dog breeds that bark softly when their owners are upset.
Dog Breeds That Bark Softly When Owners Are Upset
1. Pug
Pugs are a Chinese dog breed characterized by their wrinkled face, short muzzle, and curled tail. These good-natured dogs can adapt to different living situations and do well with other dogs and people of all ages, including kids and the elderly.
According to the American Kennel Club, Pugs like to be loved and give love in return. A Latin phrase, “multum in parvo,” meaning “too much in little,” describes them perfectly. These playful and funny companions do not bark excessively.
They reserve their bark to inform their family of a stranger or anything unusual. They would prefer spending their time sleeping instead of making a noise.
2. Coton de Tulear
Coton de Tulear is a happy-go-lucky dog from Madagascar, known for its clownish and affectionate personality. This fluffy dog is generally quiet and barks only when something startles them. These playful and lively dogs love spending time with their owners.
Coton de Tulear dogs bark in response to the sounds, intruders, doorbell, and anything else they think you should know about. However, they are not yappy. They can also learn non-barking vocalizations to get your attention.
These friendly dogs are also known for tilting their head when you talk to them. This is called Coton head tilt. Coton de Tulears can attune themselves to human emotions.
3. Japanese Chin
These little toy dogs don’t bark excessively, but snore a lot due to their flat faces. Japanese Chins are family-friendly dogs who tend to get along well with kids. These cuddly fellows love sitting in their owner’s lap and are often said to show cat-like behavior.
Japanese Chin thrive on human attention. These tiny companions attune themselves to human emotions and often mirror the mood in their home. According to PetMD, they bark only when they see a stranger passing by or hear an unknown sound.
Japanese Chins are people-oriented dogs who love to be around their family members all the time. It is important to train them at an early age; otherwise, they can develop separation anxiety.
4. Akita
Well-trained Akitas tend to bark less frequently than other breeds. These hunting dogs are naturally silent. They are so unlikely to bark that when they make a noise, you need to pay attention, as there is definitely something wrong.
Akitas are intensely loyal and form strong bonds with their humans. However, they can be aloof towards strangers and wary of other animals, due to which they make excellent guard dogs. They are incredibly intuitive and sensitive to human emotions.
They offer comfort when they sense you are feeling down or anxious, and it’s a sign of their deep connection with their owners. Erect ears, shiny eyes, and an alert expression are the hallmarks of this breed.
5. Basenji
The famous “barkless dog,” Basenji, is the next one on our list. It is because they make very little noise, but are not mute. Instead of typical barking, they make unique yodel-like noises that usually show their excitement.
These not-so-noisy dogs are known for their sensitive nature and tend to form deep emotional connections with their humans. Basenji is a highly intelligent and energetic canine who is always up for mischief.
According to Hill’s Pet, these clever dogs are not easy to train. Basenjis are clean and fastidious pooches that exhibit a cat-like behavior by licking their paws and cleaning their face for grooming.
6. French Bulldog
People often have confusion that French Bulldogs are yappy; however, they do not bark much. These playful dogs have a gentle disposition. They thrive on human contact and have low energy levels, which makes them well-suited for apartment living.
French Bulldogs are irresistibly small dogs who love their nap time. They tend to be quieter, but prepare yourself for hearing loud snores during their nap time. Frenchies get along well with other dogs and love making new friends.
Due to their alert nature, Frenchies make excellent watchdogs. They happily adapt to life with singles, couples, or families and do not require extensive exercise.
7. Scottish Deerhound
Scottish Deerhound, or the “Royal dog of Scotland,” is a majestic hound dog that was originally bred to chase deer. That is why these dogs have a laser focus and tend to be quiet by nature. They are affectionate and loyal to their humans.
Surprisingly low maintenance according to their size, Scottish Deerhounds are so quiet that they do not bark even if someone arrives at the door. So, you cannot expect them to serve as watchdogs. These bearded dogs have a wiry coat similar to that of an Irish Wolfhound.
Scottish Deerhounds tend to be calm and more laid back than many other breeds. They need around 30 minutes of exercise twice a day to stay healthy.
8. Newfoundland
Newfoundland dogs are large and powerful dogs with heavy bones. These sweet-tempered dogs make excellent companions and have earned a reputation as watchful “nanny dogs.” Newfies stick to their crew, but never bark to get attention.
These gentle giants look intimidating but are super soft at heart. Originally bred for working on ships and performing tasks like rescuing overboard sailors, Newfies have a strong affinity for water. If you want them to talk, take these avid swimmers out on water and see if their protective instincts kick in.
Newfies are friendly dogs who enjoy your company. They are known for their intelligent, outgoing, and curious nature and rarely get aggressive.
9. Bolognese
Bolognese are small, stocky dogs hailing from Italy. These calm and affectionate canines are known for their gentle temperament. They tend to form strong bonds with their owners and are not overly energetic. Bolognese thrive on attention and companionship.
Due to their quiet and laid-back demeanor, they rarely bark and are well-suited for apartment living. In contrast to other small dog breeds that are too vocal, Bolognese are not so talkative. However, these alert dogs do not hesitate to bark at an unfamiliar sound or person.
Bolognese require moderate exercise of 30 to 60 minutes every day for physical and mental stimulation. They do not typically bark excessively out of boredom.
Conclusion
Unlike numerous barking dog breeds, some furry friends are known for their calm and laidback nature. These gentle and affectionate fellows do not bark much and tend to form strong bonds with their humans. They are sensitive to their owner’s emotions and mirror their moods.
If you are planning to adopt a companion dog who can match your vibe and comfort you in times of stress, one of the breeds mentioned in this article might be perfect for you. Just ensure proper training and give much-needed attention and affection to your cuddly pet!
