The Quietest Dogs That Don’t Bark

Do you know which are the quietest dogs of the different sizes?

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By Alex

It’s important to know which dogs that don’t bark, especially if you live in an apartment and don’t want to have troubles with your neighbors. Let’s find out which breeds are the calmest and most reliable from this point of view.

Often when choosing a dog, little consideration is given to its temperament. In fact, there are dogs that don’t bark, which are quieter than others, and breeds that are, on the contrary, much noisier. This depends precisely on the genetic imprint: for example, a shedding dog cannot be asked not to bark, as the instinct to signal the presence of his prey is innate in him. Likewise, some small dog breeds are notoriously very noisy and could cause problems for your neighbors.

A dog that barks does so for many reasons: it wants to defend its family and its territory or simply needs to get your attention. Much also depends on education and training. All in all, in millennia of coexistence with man, the dog has learned that the most effective way to attract people’s attention is precisely… barking!

So let’s try to shed some light on the habits of the various breeds.

Small-sized dogs that don’t bark

Let’s start with those adorable small dogs that stand out for their calmness.

  • French Bulldog: this dog is tender, friendly and loves to play and run in the meadows, but is always very respectful and silent.
  • Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: lovable and docile, this little dog adapts to apartment life, without causing a nuisance to the neighbors.
  • Glen of Imaal Terrier: less known than others, it is actually a good hunting dog but also a companion.
  • Shih tzu: it is a lively dog that knows how to fill the days, but does not bark unless there is a real reason.
dogs that don't bark basenji
The Basenji dog is also known as the dog that doesn’t bark, due to a peculiar physiological trait in its larynx, which causes it to emit only a strange cry, more like that of a duck than a dog!

Medium-sized dogs that don’t bark

Let’s now move on to medium-sized breeds:

  • American Akita: clever and shrewd, this dog loves to surround himself with the affection of his family, but it is not a dog that barks for no reason.
  • Australian shepherd: the Australian shepherd needs large spaces so he is not suited to life at home. However he only barks when necessary.
  • Basenji: known as a dog that does not bark, because of a particular physiological trait, a very peculiar conformation of the laryngeal ventricle. In fact in special situations it emits a strange, but not at all annoying sound.
  • Boxer: It’s a very playful dog, very possessive and can clash with other dogs, but if well trained he will not create problems from this point of view.
  • Bernese Mountain Dog: it is a sheepdog that has learned over time to live with its family, adapting to a quiet life.
  • Hungarian Pointer: It is one of the best hunting dogs that knows when to bark.
  • Breton: another hunting dog, certainly not suitable for guarding, so it is really rare to hear him barking.
  • Clumber Spaniel: It is a hunting dog that only barks when faced with danger.
  • Dogue de Bordeaux: today it is used as a guard and defense dog, being a very agile and quick breed.
  • Husky: affectionate and sweet, it fully falls into the category of dogs that don’t bark.
  • Bobtail: it is a shepherd dog that knows how to stay with the little ones, respecting a peaceful coexistence.
  • Belgian Shepherd: very agile and alert, it is a dog not inclined to bark.
  • Pointer: He is often shy around strangers, so you won’t have any problems with neighbors.
  • Saluki or Persian Greyhound: great hunter, autonomous and independent, has a docile and affable temperament.
  • English Setter and Irish Setter: being two hunting dogs, like all breeds in this category, they bark the minimum necessary.
  • Shiba Inu: It generally likes to remain silent unless there is something unsettling.
  • Wheaten terrier: it loves to greet their owner by jumping and playing, but you will never have problems with barking.

FOCUS: Dog breeds that don’t shed hair

dogs that don't bark: shiba inu
Among dogs that don’t bark, the beautiful Shiba Inu should be included.

Large-sized dogs that don’t bark

Finally, here is the list of some large breeds known for being particularly silent:

  • Great Dane: it is a very tall and powerful dog, that, contrary to popular belief, has a calm temperament.
  • Bloodhound: patient and good, with a solemn bearing. Overall a lovely (and loved) dog.
  • Bullmastiff: very affectionate with his owners, it can even tolerate noises if well trained.
  • Chesapeake Bay Retriever: it is a retriever dog that will not give you problems.
  • Collie or Scottish Sheepdog: he loves being with children and constantly moving.
  • Dobermann: knowing how to defend your home also means knowing how to decide when it is appropriate to bark or not. The Dobermann is one of the best at this.
  • Argentine Dogo: despite its aggressive look, it is a dog that rarely barks. On the other hand, it needs a lot of outdoor activities.
  • Golden Retriever: this is a retriever and search dog that requires living outdoors. Barking is certainly not among his priorities.
  • Labrador Retriever: this dog is very docile: it is very rare to hear him barking or appearing aggressive.
  • Afghan Hound: among the oldest breeds in the world, today it is a highly sought-after companion dog.
  • English Greyhound: it is known for being very fast, but certainly not for being a barking dog.
  • Neapolitan Mastiff: this dog requires a lot of attention and care, but in return knows how to defend its family well.
  • Rhodesian Ridgeback: imposing and short-haired, it is an affectionate dog that knows how to be gentle.
  • Rottweiler: this excellent watchdog knows when to bark.
  • Saint Bernard: despite its enormous appearance, it is not at all aggressive. In fact this dog is able to sacrifice itself to save those in danger.
  • Sharpei: a beautiful dog that loves company and doesn’t cause problems.
  • Newfoundland: despite its size, it is really sweet and loves to be cuddled.

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