Seeking a canine companion without the cacophony? Silence is golden, especially when it comes to our furry friends. If barking bothers you or your neighbors, this guide is your essential resource. Discover seven remarkably quiet dog breeds, perfect for apartment living or simply a more peaceful home environment. From gentle giants to cuddly lap dogs, these breeds offer all the love and loyalty with minimal vocalization, proving that quiet canines can be just as captivating.
Dogs bring so much joy to our lives, but sometimes their barking can be a bit much. Whether you’re looking for a calm companion that won’t bark at every passing squirrel or an apartment-friendly dog that won’t disturb the neighbors, a quieter breed might be the perfect fit for you. That said, it’s important to remember that all dogs bark from time to time, even those known for being more on the quiet side.
While some breeds naturally tend to bark less, no dog is completely silent. Barking can still happen, especially if the dog is bored, anxious, or lacks proper training. The good news is that with positive training, regular physical and mental exercise, and attention to their overall well-being, you can minimize excessive barking.
If you’re ready to invest time and care into training, these seven dog breeds are known for being much quieter than others and may be just what you’re looking for. Whether it’s for a peaceful home or a noise-sensitive environment, these quiet pups can offer all the companionship without the constant barking.
Dog Breeds That Barely Bark
1. Borzoi
| Personality | Affectionate, loyal, regally dignified |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Life Expectancy | 9-14 years |
| Barking Level | Low |
The Borzoi, once called the Russian Wolfhound, is a graceful and swift sighthound known for its incredible speed, often reaching up to 40 miles per hour when in full sprint. Bred to chase and pin prey, Borzois are independent, much like cats, yet also affectionate and loyal to their families. Despite their hunting instincts, they are one of the quieter, calmer breeds, so barking is rarely an issue.
With a sweet, friendly temperament, Borzois get along well with people of all ages, including children, although they prefer gentle play rather than roughhousing. These dogs respond best to patient, gentle training due to their stubborn streak.
Since Borzois are born to run and have a strong chase instinct, it’s essential to provide them with a fenced yard and leash training. While not aggressive by nature, their hunting drive means they may instinctively chase smaller animals, so early introductions to other pets, especially when they’re puppies, are important for harmonious coexistence.
2. Basenji
| Personality | Independent, smart, poised |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Life Expectancy | 13-14 years |
| Barking Level | Only To Alert |
Basenjis are elegant and compact hunting dogs originally from Africa, still prized for their hunting abilities today. Known as the “barkless dog,” they communicate through a unique yodeling sound when excited, rather than barking. These fascinating pets are best suited for owners who can meet their exercise needs and embrace the challenge of training their independent, catlike nature.
Meticulous like cats, Basenjis are clean with no “doggy” smell, making them great housemates. While calm and loving with their family, they can be a bit aloof around strangers due to their independent spirit. Allowing them to meet new people on their own terms helps them feel secure.
According to the American Kennel Club, early socialization and puppy training are crucial for Basenjis, as their high energy, intelligence, and mischievous streak make them a breed that thrives with structure and activity.
3. French Bulldog
| Personality | Playful, smart, adaptable |
| Energy Level | Calm |
| Life Expectancy | 10-12 years |
| Barking Level | Only To Alert |
French Bulldog puppies are some of the most entertaining and affectionate companions you can find. Known for being quiet, they aren’t frequent barkers, which makes them a favorite among dog owners. However, they will bark enthusiastically if they sense someone at the door, making them attentive watchdogs despite their laid-back nature.
French Bulldogs love cuddling and prefer lounging on your lap, though they still enjoy a brisk walk twice a day. Due to their sensitivity to heat, they prefer staying indoors in cool, air-conditioned spaces during hot weather. While Frenchies can be a bit stubborn, with consistent training, they become intelligent and lovable companions.
Orvis points out that they are social dogs who adore being around people of all ages, including children. Despite their small size, they are sturdy enough to handle a bit of rough play, making them perfect for families with young kids.
4. Scottish Deerhound
| Personality | Dignified, gentle, polite |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Life Expectancy | 8-11 years |
| Barking Level | Only To Alert |
The Scottish Deerhound is an extremely large and athletic dog, with a strong instinct to chase due to its hound heritage. While courageous and loyal, Deerhounds aren’t great watchdogs because they rarely bark, even when someone comes to the door. Overall, they are quiet dogs, and it’s unusual for them to bark excessively.
Despite their size, they love lounging and enjoy nothing more than stretching out in a cozy spot at home, where they can be gentle and sweet couch potatoes. As puppies, Deerhounds need daily exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Long walks, always on a leash to prevent chasing, or time spent in a fenced-in area are ideal for them.
According to My Family Vets, while they adore their families, their rough play may be too much for small children. Intelligent yet independent, Scottish Deerhounds can be a bit challenging to train, but they respond well to positive reinforcement, such as treats, praise, and rewards, making training more effective and enjoyable for both dog and owner.
5. Bernese Mountain Dog
| Personality | Good-natured, calm, strong |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Life Expectancy | 7-10 years |
| Barking Level | Occasional |
The Bernese Mountain Dog is known for being a confident and friendly companion, with traits that once made them great farm helpers. They don’t bark excessively, but they don’t cope well when left alone for long periods.
These dogs are affectionate and thrive on constant company, making them loyal and playful family pets. With plenty of exercise, they are calm and quiet, yet always eager to please with their good-natured temperament.
Though gentle and loving with their families, Bernese Mountain Dogs can be a bit reserved around strangers. Due to their large size, it’s important to supervise them around small children. While they enjoy having a job or daily exercise, they’re just as happy to relax at home, making them an ideal mix of an energetic playmate and a calm, affectionate companion.
6. Bulldog
| Personality | Friendly, courageous, calm |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Life Expectancy | 8-10 years |
| Barking Level | Infrequent |
The Bulldog, with his wrinkled face and sturdy body, is far from the fierce dogs of the past. Today’s Bulldogs are known for their calm and gentle nature, making them great companions and excellent playmates for kids. Bulldogs are not big barkers; they tend to only bark in specific situations, like when they feel threatened or need attention. Their barking is more about communication than aggression, so they are generally quieter than many other breeds.
With their wrinkled brow, hanging jowls, and distinctive rolling walk, Bulldogs have a tough appearance, but their personality is mellow and loving. They enjoy a relaxed, laid-back lifestyle and are perfectly content spending much of their day napping.
According to PetPlan, it’s important to ensure they get enough exercise to avoid unhealthy weight gain, as they can easily become overweight without proper activity.
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
| Personality | Affectionate, gentle, graceful |
| Energy Level | Calm |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 years |
| Barking Level | Occasional |
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a gentle and loving dog breed known for its calm and easygoing nature. While famous for being the pets of King Charles II, these sweet dogs are happy to be with anyone, whether you’re an active person or prefer to relax at home. Cavaliers don’t bark much—usually only when they’re excited or when someone new arrives. They are friendly with strangers and get along well with other dogs, making them a peaceful companion.
This breed is known for its playful yet gentle personality. Cavaliers are intelligent, though they can be a bit stubborn at times, but they’re easy to train and wonderful with kids.
According to PDSA, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are an easy-going and affectionate breed, always eager to spend time with their owners. Whether it’s playing in the house or running around in the garden, they love engaging in activities, especially chasing or hunting games due to their spaniel instincts. However, Cavaliers are social dogs and don’t do well when left alone for long periods.
Conclusion
Quiet dog breeds can be the perfect companions for those looking for a peaceful home environment without the constant sound of barking. From the Shih Tzu to the Shiba Inu, these dogs are generally quiet and make great pets for apartment dwellers or homes with noise ordinances.
Though they may not be the best guard dogs, their quiet nature and calm demeanor make them wonderful companions. Whether you’re looking for a gentle giant or a smaller, more independent dog, these breeds offer a balance of loyalty and affection without excessive noise.
For those seeking a low-maintenance furry friend, these zen-like dogs are ideal. Many of these breeds, such as the Shih Tzu, were originally bred for companionship, which means they thrive in a family environment and are fiercely loyal. Although nail trimming and regular care are still important, their quiet nature makes them easier to manage, especially for busy owners.
Whether you’re after dogs that don’t bark much or simply want a calm pet, the quietest dog breeds offer the best of both worlds—loving companions with minimal barking.
For those seeking tranquility in their homes, choosing a naturally quiet dog breed can be a key to peaceful cohabitation. While no dog is entirely silent, breeds like the Basenji, Greyhound, or Shiba Inu are known for their minimal barking tendencies. Remember that individual personalities vary, and training plays a role in managing any dog’s vocalizations. Thorough research and consideration of your lifestyle will help ensure a harmonious match, bringing the joys of canine companionship without the noise complaints.