Meta: Are you among those who love dogs but not their voices? Learn about seven dog breeds that rarely bark, even when excited. Perfect, quieter canine companions.
Not every pup is a big barker. While some dogs react to every knock or squirrel, others stay calm, quiet, and chill, even when excited. These quiet dog breeds are a dream for apartment dwellers, light sleepers, and anyone who’s had enough of excessive barking.
Dogs with a gentle temperament are often chosen as therapy dogs because their calm nature helps humans feel safe and relaxed. That gentle demeanor also makes them less reactive to noise or strangers.
In this blog, we’re digging into several dog breeds that rarely bark, even in moments of joy. If you’re searching for calm dogs with a soft personality and a love for humans but not a love for barking, this one’s for you.
Dog Breeds That Rarely Bark Even When Excited
1. Basenji

Well, we all have that one friend who doesn’t take part in gossip but still knows everything. In the dog world, that friend is the Basenji. According to Wikipedia, the Basenji is a hunting dog that originated from Central Africa.
This compact and sweet-faced hunter is also known as the barkless dog. Remember, it’s just not a fancy nickname; it is a trait. These dogs won’t bark like a traditional dog; instead, it has their own style.
Basenjis are African barkless dogs, characterized by their unusual trait of not barking like other breeds. In fact, they produce a unique, yodel-like sound referred to as “barroo.” You can call it a blend of yodeling sound and howling.

Although the Basenji doesn’t bark much, it has a face that tells you everything. Literally, they express human-like emotions with their almond-shaped eyes and wrinkled foreheads.
2. Whippet

It is one of the dogs that rarely barks, even when excited, but frankly speaking, it is part of their charm. They have strong legs. The reason behind not being a frequent barking dog lies in its history as a silent hunter.
Surprisingly, Whippets are gentle with kids and other animals. They know when to play and when to exit the scene quietly. Truly, their patient and elegant presence is also great for young children. However, ensure they receive proper training and socialization.
This quiet dog breed is easy to train because it is intelligent. Besides high intelligence, they are eager to please. If you go for a positive reinforcement training method, they will respond well.
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

If quiet breeds were royalty, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel would have worn the crown with a velvet cap. According to PetMD, these toy dogs were originally bred to snuggle in laps on chilly weather.
But these adorable charmers are noted for their calm nature, and yes, they are generally quiet dogs. Even in excitement, they seldom bark.
Let me tell you the hallmarks of this tinny creature. Their enticing expression radiating from big, glossy eyes, silky, long coats, and long, floppy ears makes them different and graceful.
Don’t you need to worry, these dongs have a long lifespan of 12 to 15 years. So they won’t leave you soon. They may be small in size, but they are energetic and need exercise for physical and mental stimulation.
4. Shiba Inu

Shiba Inus are another cool and silent-type dog, perfect for those who are tired of dog barks but still love dogs. This breed hailed from the land of the rising sun and truly shines like the sun. With prick ears, squinty eyes, and curly tails, these fox-like pets aren’t loud.
They have an independent nature, and often they respond to excitement with a dignified glance.
What if we say that a Shiba Inu is like a dog in a cat? Amazed? You will be. It exhibits cat-like behavior, which sets it apart from other animals. They groom themselves regularly and love to stay in clean places.

Now, while these dogs don’t bark and stay pretty quiet, that doesn’t mean they don’t speak or communicate. In fact, they do. Their Shiba Scream is a unique sound that these pups produce when they are excited or don’t get what they want.
5. Newfoundland

Do you like a dog that doesn’t bark even when it gets excited? We have got a Newfoundland that is like a walking, wagging blanket of calm.
Although it is a giant dog, it carries itself with considerable grace. No dramatic outburst, no fuss, no noise. Just soft expressions, slow blinks of eyes, and sometimes it’s head on your lap.
Britannica mentions that Newfie was bred as water dogs to help fishermen. Now, something remarkable, their work history makes them water rescuers. They have saved hundreds of lives, no sirens, just a splash and purpose.
Now, just pair their heroic ability with a heart-melting, gentle nature, and you’ve got a silent superhero. They are amazing with kids and respectful towards other pets.
6. Bernese Mountain Dog

This large working dog originated from the canton of Bern, but keep in mind that this gentle dog doesn’t need to tell you everything.
Even when excited, you will rarely hear any bark from them. Just relaxed, calm, and silent. But how do they express their joy? With a tail wag, a big smile, and a soft lean against your legs.

They are fiercely loyal and protective of their family. What else do you want from this dog? Even if it doesn’t bark, you can’t hide from its eye. And if something gets creepy, it will position itself between you and the concern.
It was bred for hard work, and that instinct is still present in Berners. They still love their job, and they will happily accept any work assigned to them. Let me clarify that your dog takes its duty seriously.
7. Scottish Deerhound

You don’t have to shout “quiet” if a Scottish Deerhound is around. You will hardly see this breed barking excessively, even if something happens that might excite them.
They are noted for quiet dignity, just like a person who claps silently at a music concert. At first glance, you might get scared, but these quiet dogs have soft souls. Indeed, it is not a vocal breed.
Are you considering adopting your first dog? Confused about which breed is perfect for you? Scottish Deerhounds are easy to live with. Their affectionate nature and high intelligence make them ideal for those who are new to the world of dogs.
Looking at a dog, you might think of them as a fast sprinter that needs hours of sprinting and field games. But these canines don’t need high exercise, just a few walks or short runs.
Conclusion
So, there you have it, seven polite pups that genuinely believe in peace. These calm dog breeds won’t interrupt your nap, scare your neighbors, or bark every time. They bring love, loyalty, and a whole lot of personality, just without all the noise.
Whether you live in a city apartment or a big country house, just enjoy a bit of silence; these dogs prove you don’t need barking to make a big impression. These quiet dog breeds are amazing companions without loud noises and large-scale disturbance.