Some dogs make noise just to make noise. They bark loudly at the mailman, the neighbors, the squirrels, the wind (you know the type). But there are some quiet dog breeds. They are gentle breeds that don’t need to be loud to get attention. Instead, these are the dog breeds that bark softly to get their owners’ love and attention.
These canines know how to keep the noise down but still melt your heart. They are calm, affectionate, and yes, sometimes, surprisingly playful. They will not drive your neighbors crazy, and they won’t fill the house with chaos. But, they do give you that soft and perfect balance between communication and peace.
So, we have rounded up seven of such dogs that bark softly to get their owners’ love. Let’s get to know why they are some of the most loyal and gentle companions you could ever share your life with.
Dog Breeds That Bark Softly to Get Owners’ Love
1. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is what dog lovers call a “gentle giant”. We mean, just look at that massive fluff. But you’d be even surprised to know that these large dogs are famous for their soft nature and not for loud barking. They will stand by you, watch over your family, and when they do make a sound, it is rarely loud.
Key Traits
Gentle nature and calm personality
Affectionate dogs who bond deeply with their families
Rarely bark unless something is really important
Need moderate exercise but not overly energetic
Huge size, but these water-loving dogs are not noisy pets. Instead, they tend to stand guard with a quiet sense of dignity. Because they are so affectionate with kids, the AKC mentions them as “nanny dogs”.
If they bark, it is usually soft. A way of nudging you to pay attention, not a shout. And if you have ever owned a “Newfie”, you know, these dogs tend to talk more with their eyes than with noise.
2. Bernese Mountain dog
This is another one of the gentle giants… and YES!! This one is a fan favorite. The Bernese Mountain dog is an affectionate, loyal, and quiet dog for its size. Families love them because they are playful without being too loud.
Key Traits
Affectionate and loyal dogs
Rarely bark without any reason
Great with children and families
Need daily walking and exercise to stay healthy
This is the kind of pup who would rather lean on you than bark at you. They tend to give soft sounds when they need something… like food, water, or just love. Britannica noted they are a perfect dog for all ages because of their sweet nature. They are not considered guard dogs per se, but they still stand close to their humans.
And while most dogs would start barking the second they hear a knock on the door, Bernese dogs are calmer. They might bark softly, but it is never excessive and never over the top. And that’s why they are one of the most perfect quiet dog breeds.
3. Great Dane
Yes, the Great Dane is on the list. Surprised? You shouldn’t be! They are one of the tallest dogs and most powerful in the world, but they are actually a quiet dog.
Key Traits
Great Danes are calm giants with gentle hearts
Bark only when they sense something important
Affectionate pups who crave closeness
Needs to go on walks and do moderate exercise
These dogs tend to stand tall and confident without the need to make a ton of noise. When they do bark, it is deep and booming, but it is also rare. And if they are barking softly at you, it is not aggressive. It is actually full of affection, like they are telling you, “hey, pay attention, I love you”.
Families who prefer quiet dogs for apartment living may not always think of the Great Dane because of its size. But in terms of noise, they are generally quiet.
4. Irish Setter
Now let’s talk about a breed with a little more bounce. Irish Setters are energetic, playful, and full of life. But they are not loud dogs. The bark of these hunting dogs tends to be soft, and they use it just to connect with their owners rather than to fill the house with noise.
Key Traits
Beautiful red coats and playful personalities
Tend to bark softly for attention instead of loudly
Good exercise needs, as noted by WebMD
Affectionate, loyal, and family-oriented
Irish Setters were once hunting dogs, which explains their energy and stamina. But unlike some breeds, they are not barking machines. They tend to use their voice sparingly. If your Irish Setter gives you a soft bark, it means, “Come play with me” or “Don’t forget I am here”.
They are perfect for families who love active dogs but don’t want constant noise. A soft bark here, a tail wag here. That’s how they show their love.
5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
This is a breed with royal roots. British royalty once adored these pups for their sweet nature, small dog size, and gentle ways. And yes… they rarely bark loudly.
Key Traits
Affectionate and loving puppies
Generally quiet dogs who bark softly when needed
Perfect for apartment dwellers and small homes
These dogs tend to prefer cuddles to chaos. They don’t make a lot of noise. When they do bark, it is usually a soft bark directed at their owners. Almost like they are whispering. They are calm, gentle, and deeply loyal: an ideal breed for people who value peace and affection.
One thing is certain about the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. They will stand by your side with love, not noise.
6. Greyhound
Yes, the racing dog. The Greyhound will surprise some people here, but the truth about them is that they really are one of the quietest dog breeds you can own. They have a reputation for speed, but they are calm, gentle, and rarely bark.
Key Traits
Affectionate with owners but independent too
Needs daily exercise but enjoys long naps afterward
Can even designate them the title “barkless dog”
Quiet, calm, and relaxed, as per Omlet UK
Greyhounds don’t tend to start barking unless something really catches their attention. And even then, the bark is soft, not loud.
For apartment dwellers, this is the perfect canine companion for this very reason. They love their humans, but they are not going to fill your space with endless noise.
It’s funny!! People see Greyhounds as fast and active athletes. And that’s true, but most of the time, they are couch potatoes.
7. Saint Bernard
The St. Bernard is famous for rescuing lost travelers in the snowy Alps. But at home, this gentle giant is best known for being calm, affectionate, and generally quiet.
Key Traits
Large breed with a gentle heart
Rarely bark, soft barks only when needed
Loving with families, gentle with children
Needs exercise, but not overly energetic
Saint Bernard does not waste its voice. It is not a loud dog. In fact, they tend to give soft barks when they want your attention or when they sense something important.
They are loyal dogs who are highly affectionate, and we can safely say they are the best breed for people who prefer peace in their homes.
And yes, they drool a lot, but their personality makes up for it.
Conclusion
Not every dog has to be loud to be loving. In fact, some of the most loving dogs out there are dog breeds that bark softly to get their owners’ love. So, if you are looking for EXACTLY such a puppy that will shower you with so much love, consider one of these breeds.
They are calm, loyal, and perfect for families, apartment dwellers, or really anyone who values peace.
Because if you are going to have a dog, all that matters is a quiet bark, that soft reminder, that little sound that says: “I care for you and I am here”.
