Sometimes, silence really is golden—especially when it comes to dogs. While barking is a normal way for dogs to communicate, not everyone wants a four-legged friend who turns into a big barker at every leaf that blows by. Did you know a dog’s bark can easily reach 80 dB, and some dogs can even hit 100 dB?
Unfortunately, noise levels above 70 dB can start to cause hearing damage over time. That’s why choosing quiet dog breeds with a low tendency for excessive barking can make life so much more peaceful, especially for apartment dwellers, families, or anyone who values a calm environment.
The good news is that some quiet dogs are pretty chill, staying even-tempered and only using their voice in short bursts when they truly sense danger or need to alert their humans. So, if you’re dreaming of a peaceful home and a canine companion that won’t disrupt the harmony—or your hearing—you’re in the right place.
Let’s meet 7 quiet dog breeds that bark only when really necessary—perfect for anyone who wants a loyal friend without all the noise!
Dog Breeds That Bark Only When Really Necessary
1. Scottish Deerhound
AKC mentions that the Scottish Deerhound, known as the Royal Dog of Scotland, is a graceful and calm companion with a truly noble presence. Once bred to hunt deer in the rugged Scottish Highlands, today they’re gentle giants with an easygoing personality. Despite their hunting background, they’re pretty quiet and will only start barking if there’s a genuine reason.
They’re known for their serene nature and even-tempered attitude, which makes them wonderful, quiet dogs for families or anyone who values a peaceful home. While they enjoy a good outdoor gallop, they’re just as happy lounging indoors afterward.
They may seem a little reserved around strangers, but with their families, they’re deeply loyal and affectionate in their own dignified way.
Quick Facts:
Breed group: Hound
Height: 30-32 inches (male); 28 inches & up (female)
Weight: 85-110 pounds (male); 75-95 pounds (female)
Lifespan: 8-11 years
Personality: Gentle, loyal, reserved, but loving with family
2. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland, or “Newfie,” is a gentle giant with a heart as big as its size. Despite their strong build, they’re famously sweet-tempered and known as loving companions, especially with kids. In fact, they’ve even earned the nickname “nanny dog” because of their patient and watchful nature around children.
Newfoundlands are affectionate dogs that are intensely loyal to their families. They rarely bark without reason. You might hear a low, serious bark only if they feel the need to protect you or alert you to something unusual. Otherwise, they’re pretty quiet for their size.
This large breed has a fascinating history as working companions on ships, often rescuing sailors who fell overboard. They’re amazing swimmers with a natural love for water, yet indoors, they’re calm, even-tempered, and surprisingly low-key.
Quick Facts:
Breed group: Working
Height: 28 inches (average male); 26 inches (average female)
Weight: 130-150 pounds (male); 100-120 pounds (female)
Lifespan: 9-10 years
Personality: Sweet, patient, loving, and great with kids
3. Whippet
The Whippet is a sleek and graceful, quiet dog breed that combines elegance with athleticism. PetMD mentions that they were originally bred in Northern England as smaller versions of the Greyhound, created by crossing fast sprinters with terrier breeds.
Today, they’re known for their playful bursts of speed followed by long, relaxing stretches curled up with their humans.
Despite their lightning-fast sprinting ability, Whippets are calm and pretty quiet around the house. They’re generally quiet dogs who save their energy for when it truly counts. With moderate exercise needs, they love a good daily run or play session, but afterward, they transform into the perfect calm dog for apartment dwellers or families.
They’re affectionate, playful, and deeply loyal to their people. While some Whippets can be a bit reserved with strangers, they bond strongly with their families. They also respond well to consistent training, even though their independent nature can sometimes make them a little stubborn.
Quick Facts:
Breed group: Hound
Height: 19-22 inches (male); 18-21 inches (female)
Weight: 25–40 pounds
Lifespan: 12–15 years
Personality: Affectionate, playful, reserved with strangers
4. Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin is a charming little companion with a silky coat and an elegant, aristocratic look. Often described as cat-like, this tiny toy breed is graceful, fastidious, and generally quiet. With their round, dark eyes and expressive faces, they seem to always have a look of surprise, adding to their unique appeal.
Unlike many small dogs, the Japanese Chin belongs to a breed of dogs that rarely barks. They prefer peaceful moments, cuddling in a warm lap, and simply being near their family.
But they do love attention, and if left alone for long periods, they can develop separation anxiety and may bark out of loneliness. Gentle affection and a bit of mental stimulation go a long way in keeping them happy and calm.
They’re a wonderful fit for young families looking for a pleasant and loving house pet. Despite their fancy appearance, they only need minimal grooming to keep their coat looking soft and beautiful.
Quick Facts:
Breed group: Toy
Height: 8–11 inches
Weight: 7–11 pounds
Lifespan: 10–12 years
Personality: Graceful, affectionate, cat-like
5. Akita
The Akita is a proud and powerful hunting dog from Japan, known for its striking looks and quiet confidence. With their thick neck, erect ears, and curled tails, they may look soft like a teddy bear, but their personality is strong-willed and deeply devoted.
Akitas are highly loyal and form deep bonds with only a few people. They’re not overly social with strangers and often stay calm and reserved. Quiet dog breeds usually bark less, and Akita will also typically only use their voice to alert you if there’s real danger. This makes them excellent watchful companions.
They do not constantly crave attention, but if they feel neglected, they can become stubborn or protective. With the right consistent training and early socialization, they develop an even-keeled nature that makes them steady and reliable guardians.
Quick Facts:
Breed group: Working
Height: 26-28 inches (male); 24-26 inches (female)
Weight: 100-130 pounds (male); 70-100 pounds (female)
Lifespan: 10–14 years
Personality: Loyal, confident, reserved with strangers
6. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is a small breed developed in France in the late 1800s from crosses between toy Bulldogs and local dogs. With their bat-like ears, flat skull, and alert expression, they’re both charming and distinctive. Their smooth coat comes in several colors, like brindle, fawn, or white, and is easy to maintain.
This breed is perfect for apartment living because they don’t need a lot of space or intense exercise. In fact, they have low energy needs and are happiest with short, brisk walks and plenty of lounging.
French Bulldogs are not overly vocal and aren’t the type of barking dog that disturbs the peace. They may bark when someone is at the door, but otherwise, they stay pretty quiet.
They do require some care, especially cleaning their skin folds to keep them healthy. Britannica states that because of their short-nosed anatomy, they can overheat easily and should be kept cool, especially in warm climates.
Quick Facts:
Breed group: Non-sporting
Height: 11–13 inches
Weight: Under 28 pounds
Lifespan: 10–12 years
Personality: Playful, affectionate, and alert
7. Basenji
The Basenji, often called Africa’s barkless dog, is a graceful and intelligent companion with a unique charm. Originally bred for hunting, they have sleek bodies, curled tails, and expressive eyes that seem to show humanlike emotions.
While they are famously quiet, Basenjis aren’t completely silent. Instead of traditional barking, they produce a strange yodeling sound known as a “baroo,” usually when they’re excited or want to express strong feelings.
Basenjis are known for their independent, catlike personalities. They’re clean, curious, and even groom themselves, making them surprisingly low-maintenance for such an active and alert breed. Originally used to track and flush out animals, they’re quick, agile, and love to observe their surroundings from a high perch.
Quick Facts:
Breed group: Hound
Height: 17 inches (male); 16 inches (female)
Weight: 24 pounds (male); 22 pounds (female)
Lifespan: 13–14 years
Personality: Independent, curious, clean
Conclusion
Choosing the right dog is all about finding a companion whose personality fits your lifestyle. Some dogs are naturally calm and only make noise when it’s truly necessary. With a little love, proper care, and enough mental stimulation, even the most alert pups can stay peaceful and content without filling your home with constant barking.
Apart from the ones mentioned above, there are other low-barking dogs as well that are worth mentioning. These include the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Saint Bernard, Shiba Inu, Chinese Shar Pei, Shih Tzu, Bernese Mountain Dog, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Great Dane, Afghan Hound, and Irish Setter.
For those who value a serene home, it’s comforting to know there are dogs that can offer quiet companionship while still being loyal and loving. They prove that you don’t need endless barking to feel protected, appreciated, and deeply connected to your furry friend.
