11 Quiet Dog Breeds That Don’t Bark Very Often

It’s one of the most common reasons dog owners are selective about the breed they bring into their homes… and rightfully so! If you’re an apartment owner, your neighbors live close by, so the last thing you want is to have a dog barking at all hours of the night or even just a dog that barks at the littlest things.

Squirrel? Bark! Weird noise? Bark! Car in the driveway? You guessed it…Bark!

You get the point! Because of this, a more soft-spoken dog or soft-barking dog might be a better fit for your lifestyle. We can’t promise they won’t bark, but there are certain breeds whose barks will certainly be softer on the ears!

The French Bulldog

With a pudgy, smudgy face, you can’t help but fall in love with the French Bulldog – and you’ll love this breed even more when you realize its bark is fairly non-existent. That means this little guy or gal could be perfect for apartment or condo living!

Generally, French Bulldogs are considered quiet dogs that aren’t especially vocal. Yes, they still might bark or whine, but their noises are more likely to sound like grunts or grumbles. That, we can handle!

Akita

Wouldn’t it be nice to have a dog that only barked when they felt it was necessary? Well, there’s a dog breed that does just that! It’s the Akita.

Akitas are alert dogs, meaning they only bark to let their owners know when strangers are around or something unfamiliar is present.

Other reasons they may bark (or howl) include if they’re left alone for too long or feel threatened by other dogs or strangers. Otherwise, an Akita’s bark comes with a purpose, something all dog owners are sure to appreciate!

Saint Bernard

If you thought it was just the Akita that feels barking must have a purpose, think again! Saint Bernards share the same viewpoint! Sometimes, these gentle giants bark for attention, but still, their bark is more purposeful and not as frequent as more vocal breeds.

If they do bark, experts suggest teaching the “quiet” command, reinforcing corrective behavior with treats and affection, and making them more comfortable around their triggers so the reaction is minimal. Overall, this breed is patient and makes for a quiet, lovable companion!

Greyhound

Let’s start by saying that Greyhounds make great pets! Yes, some may bark more than others, but they are generally quiet dogs that only bark when they need attention, feel bored, have anxiety, or separation issues. Much like the other breeds on this list!

They can, however, develop the habit if another dog in the house barks often. To keep it at bay, Greyhounds respond well to physical or mental exercise, and you can also teach them to “shush” on command. Sounds easy enough!

Shiba Inu

Okay, you won’t likely have a barker with a Shiba Inu, but you might have a screamer. Why so? Well, they’re known for their loud, high-pitched screams when they’re frustrated, stressed, or want your attention. Tips to help?

Consider doggy training and giving this breed plenty of exercise. You can also identify any triggers causing their behaviors, and keep them from getting bored with chew or puzzle toys.

Shiba Inus are known to be prone to anxiety but are also intelligent, curious, and alert. Some even compare this breed’s demeanor to more of a cat than a dog! So if you can handle the screams, you should be good to go!

Borzoi

Known for their quiet and calm nature, Borzois aren’t known to be barkers. They are considered one of the quieter breeds because of their laidback temperament and nature. Some owners say their Borzoi hardly barks at all!

Wow, wouldn’t that be nice?! Similar to other breeds on the list, the only time they may bark is to alert you of a stranger or something unfamiliar. Remember though, every Borzoi has his or her own personality, but overall, they’re a dog with a pleasant demeanor.

Basenji

One look at this breed and you’ll notice a regal appearance, and while they’re known as the “barkless dog” because they hardly ever bark, they make distinct other sounds instead. How do you feel about yodeling? I’m serious!

These are the sounds they make instead of barking, which is due to the unusual shape of their larynx, and they also make low “woofs” when excited. So even though there will likely be no barking, Basenjis may be a noisy breed in other ways, depending on personality, training, socialization, and environment. You get to decide just how much noise you can handle!

Newfoundland

Another breed with a calm and gentle temperament is the Newfoundland! Overall, Newfoundlands are not known to be excessive barkers, and instead, bark for reason! Sound familiar?

Their reasons may also include barking at a stranger, a potential threat, being bored, or not getting enough exercise. To help, experts say to consider socialization or training in their early years. Newfoundlands are sweet enough by nature, so they are easily trainable! Sounds like a win!

Whippet

If you’re looking for a good guard dog, this may not be it. However, they’re the perfect breed for those looking for a quiet, peaceful dog. Whippets are considered low-barking dogs but may bark more depending on their early training or individual personality.

They are only likely to bark if they’re unhappy or bored. Also, Whippets are fast and can run! So if you give them plenty of exercise, they’re likely to relax with you at home for a nice, quiet evening! If you’re a homebody, this could be quite nice!

Scottish Deerhounds

Like the Whippet, the Scottish Deerhound would not make a great watchdog because they tend not to bark. These polite and easy-going gentle giants only bark when feeling threatened or sensing dangers.

They do, however, have a high prey drive, so they might also bark at small animals or other dogs. They aren’t bothered by noises, even when the doorbell rings, and their laid-back personality means they’d rather stretch out and lounge than bark. This sounds like my kind of dog!

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Go ahead and cue the awws! The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel makes the list because of its sweet and friendly nature. This breed is more likely to request cuddles and hugs from strangers than to bark aggressively.

Their calm and gentle demeanor means they are a relatively quiet breed, only yapping when they are bored or stressed or want to get your attention when someone is at the door. They may also bark when left alone for long periods, but overall, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels enjoy the company of others and are known for forming strong bonds with their owners. Yay! 

Shhh! That’s not all!

No doubt, owning a dog that is a bit of a barker can be tricky. Even the quietest of dogs will let out a “ruff” from time to time! The key is learning why they bark and what you can do to help them stop. Remember to keep a consistent daily schedule for your dog and stimulate them with dog toys or treats.

Other things you can try?

Redirecting their attention from what makes them bark, blocking their view, increasing exercise and playtime, teaching a “quiet” command, and even using white noise with music to buffer what’s distracting them outside! If you do this, you are one step closer to having a peaceful pooch, and an overall, happier home!