Tired of dogs that won’t stop barking? The endless woofs that wake babies, annoy neighbors, and make phone calls impossible? You’re not alone.
Many people love dogs but can’t stand the noise. The good news? Not all dogs are barkers. Some rare breeds keep quiet most of the time, solving one of the biggest problems dog owners face.
These special pups have either been bred to hunt silently or just naturally don’t feel the need to speak up much. While they’ll still alert you to real danger, they won’t sound the alarm for every squirrel, mail carrier, or leaf blowing by.
Think of them as the thoughtful introverts of the dog world – they’ve got plenty to say, they just don’t feel the need to shout it. Here are seven beautiful, quiet breeds that prove you can have furry companionship without the soundtrack.
Barkless Dog Breeds
1. Bernese Mountain Dog
Despite their impressive size and working-dog background, Bernese Mountain Dogs are famously mellow and soft-tempered.
If you’re looking for a companion that prefers leaning gently against your leg over sounding the alarm every five minutes, this is your dog. Their quiet nature makes them stand out, especially in bustling family homes.
Not Your Typical Watchdog
While they’ll alert you if something truly needs your attention, these gentle giants aren’t known for unnecessary barking.
Compared to how often dogs bark in general, Berners are far more restrained. They observe calmly, and often silently, making them excellent companions for those who want presence without the noise.
Gentle Giants with Deep Loyalty
Originally bred in the Swiss Alps to pull carts and work alongside farmers, Bernese Mountain Dogs developed a bond-driven personality.
They’re devoted to their families, especially kids, and thrive in calm, steady environments. While they’re affectionate and easygoing, they can be a little sensitive — harsh corrections don’t work here.
Space, Grooming, and Time Matter
Potential owners should know: Berners are large, need space, and shed a lot, as stated in PetMD. They’re best for people who don’t mind daily brushing and have time to give them attention.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are naturally gentle, and while they may alert you to a visitor, they don’t fall into the habit of excessive barking. It’s no surprise they often rank among the most beloved quiet dog breeds for families and individuals alike.
Built for Snuggles, Not Shouting
What sets them apart isn’t just their silky coat or expressive eyes—it’s their people-oriented, soft-spoken demeanor.
While they love to follow you from room to room, they do so quietly and with a calm spirit. You won’t find them barking at every squirrel or sound outside the window.
Ideal for Smaller Spaces
Their compact size and low-noise personality make them a great match for apartment living, especially for people who want a companion without the chaos. They’re adaptable, friendly with strangers, and known for being one of the most emotionally in-tune dog breeds.
Why It Matters for New Owners
While many quiet dog breeds require space or more exercise, Cavaliers strike a balance: they’re active enough to join you on walks but mellow enough to lounge all day.
3. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are widely loved for their low-energy, no-fuss personalities, and if you’re looking for a quiet housemate, they truly deliver.
Unlike many other small dog breeds that can be surprisingly yappy, Frenchies are generally low on vocal drama. They’re alert, but you’ll rarely hear them raise their voice without a clear reason.
Loyal Companions With a Chill Vibe
What stands out most is their calm demeanor. Whether they’re relaxing on the couch or lounging at your feet while you work, they bring a peaceful presence into any room.
And while they’re not big barkers, they’re very expressive through body language, eye contact, and short, sweet interactions, as highlighted by All About Frenchies.
City-Friendly and Adaptable
Their compact size and quiet nature make them ideal for apartments and urban settings. As small dogs, they don’t need a huge backyard or marathon walks—just short strolls and quality time. Frenchies are also famously loyal, forming deep bonds with their humans.
Gentle, Snuggly, and People-Focused
They’re not just quiet—they’re also incredibly loving. If you’re drawn to affectionate dogs that thrive on closeness without being overly demanding, French Bulldogs offer just that.
Among several dog breeds known for being quiet, few offer this level of connection in such a manageable, charming size.
4. Basenji
The Basenji is often the first name that comes up when people think of quiet dogs—and with good reason. This ancient African breed doesn’t bark in the typical sense.
Instead, they produce unique vocalizations, like yodels or howls, which are rare and usually tied to excitement or curiosity. Thanks to their low tendency to make noise, they’re a standout in this category.
Independent Yet Deeply Loyal
Yes, Basenjis are aloof, but they form strong bonds with their owners. While they’re more cat-like in personality and tend to enjoy alone time, they’re incredibly loyal to their chosen humans. Earning their trust is rewarding, and once they choose you, they’ll stick close in their own quiet way.
Perfect Fit for Compact Living
Their size, cleanliness, and silent nature make them ideal for apartment dwellers. Basenjis groom themselves like cats and don’t have a doggy odor, making them low-maintenance in indoor spaces, as per the AKC. However, that doesn’t mean they’re couch potatoes.
Energy in Silence
With sharp minds and high exercise needs, they thrive on mentally stimulating activities and active play. While they’re not the snuggliest by default, they can still be great companions for people who appreciate a little independence in their pets, without the constant barking.
5. Borzoi
The Borzoi isn’t just quiet—it’s elegant in everything it does. Originally bred for hunting wolves in Russia, they’ve retained their calm, observant nature without the constant need to vocalize.
These dogs are deeply sensitive and tend to quietly watch their surroundings, making them a perfect match for those who want a serene presence at home.
Independent But Devoted
While they aren’t clingy, Borzois form close bonds with their people over time. They’ll quietly follow you from room to room, seeking your company without being overbearing.
This breed does best with owners who understand that affection can come in subtle, loyal ways rather than constant attention-seeking, as per Orvis.
Training With Patience Pays Off
Training a Borzoi is less about dominance and more about cooperation. They respond well to calm, consistent guidance, though their independent streak means training sessions need to be short and positive. They’re intelligent but not eager to please in the typical way—this breed likes to think for itself.
Quiet Doesn’t Mean Bored
They may not bark much, but Borzois still need stimulation to stay happy. Daily walks and open spaces to run are important, even if you spend the rest of the day snoozing gracefully on your couch.
6. Scottish Deerhound
Despite their imposing size, Scottish Deerhounds are one of the most unobtrusive breeds you’ll ever meet.
They don’t bark for attention, and they rarely make noise unless something truly demands it. Instead of patrolling the house with loud alerts, they tend to observe quietly and nap often.
Calm Indoors, Playful Outdoors
Though these dogs were once used to pursue red deer across the Scottish Highlands, today’s Deerhounds are relaxed and mellow inside the home.
Outdoors, their athleticism shines through, but indoors, they’re couch lovers who won’t bounce off the walls or cause chaos.
Not Clingy, But Deeply Affectionate
They’re not the type to demand affection constantly, but they do love being near their people. Their loyalty runs deep, and they’re happiest when they’re quietly hanging out alongside you.
If you’re someone who values peaceful companionship over constant attention-seeking, this breed will feel like a breath of fresh air.
Not for Every Home
Their size alone makes them best suited to homes with plenty of space, and a securely fenced yard is non-negotiable—if something catches their eye, they can sprint in a blink.
But if your lifestyle matches their needs, a Scottish Deerhound offers the kind of gentle, quiet companionship that’s hard to find.
7. Shiba Inu
Shibas are often mentioned among quiet dogs, but it’s important to understand how they’re quiet. They rarely bark without a genuine reason—and they’re not big on whining or yapping either. B
ut when something frustrates or excites them, that signature “Shiba scream” can come out. It’s not constant, but it’s something owners should be prepared for.
Independent Thinkers With Strong Personalities
This is not your typical eager-to-please dog. Shibas are intelligent, self-assured, and prefer to make their own decisions.
They often come across as stubborn during training, but it’s less about disobedience and more about disinterest in repetition. Building trust early and using reward-based methods is key with this breed.
Spotless Clean and Cat-Like
They’re fastidious by nature—often grooming themselves like cats and avoiding dirty spaces. This makes them one of the easiest dogs to live with indoors. They also house-train quickly and rarely have accidents once trained.
Quiet, But Not Passive
Their alertness doesn’t translate into barking fits. A Shiba will notice everything, but will usually just watch and assess.
They’re naturally reserved with strangers, and unlike many breeds, they don’t seek constant cuddles—yet they develop deep loyalty to their chosen person and show it in quieter, more dignified ways.
Conclusion
Living with a quiet dog changes everything about pet ownership. The seven breeds we’ve explored—from the dignified Basenji to the elegant Borzoi—prove that not every dog needs to be an excessive barker to show love or protect their home.
While some, like the Shiba Inu, maintain strong protective instincts without the noise, others, like the Bernese Mountain Dog, are simply gentle dogs by nature. Remember that even typically quiet breeds need proper training and regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Some athletic dogs, like the Scottish Deerhound, need space to run, while active dogs like the Basenji require mental stimulation to prevent separation anxiety.
Whether you choose a breed that requires minimal grooming, like the French Bulldog, or one with more maintenance needs, the peace and quiet these special companions bring to your home makes it all worthwhile. After all, the best hunting dogs throughout history have often been the silent ones.
