Top Quiet Dog Breeds – 15 Peaceful Pups
Last updated: by Jessi LarsonIf you’re thinking about getting a dog but are worried about all the noise they might make, don’t give up hope. Instead, explore these quiet dog breeds that barely make a peep.
All dogs bark, but not all of them will have the neighbors pounding on your door in anger from the noise. There are many lovely dogs out there that are incredibly quiet.
Let’s explore 15 quiet dog breeds that could be just what you’re looking for.
What’s With All the Barking?
The first thing you should understand is what makes some dogs so vocal.
According to some veterinarians, small dogs bark more than larger ones. Fortunately, for those with a small living space, that’s not always the case, as you’ll see from some of the small pups on our list.
Several studies show that barking habits are deeply rooted in a dog’s genetics. They’re barking because they were born and bred to do that.
It’s also been found that dogs with specific medical issues like respiratory conditions, metabolic issues, chronic vomiting, and larynx-based problems tend to bark more. It’s their way of letting you know that something is wrong.
In other words, some dogs will always be noisy. So if you’re looking for quiet dog breeds, disregard these dogs and instead focus on the four-legged friends below.
15 Quiet Dog Breeds
As you research quiet dog breeds, these 15 pups are known for not making much noise.
On average, they bark and bay far less than other breeds.
1. Pug
The Pug is a small, playful dog with a great personality. Usually, they only bark if they’re starving or feel threatened.
Pugs are happy indoors and outside, though they’re not fans of the heat. The breed is easy to train and does well with other animals and children.
2. Great Dane
Despite their imposing appearance, the Great Dane is actually a quiet dog.
Their calm, loving disposition makes them great pets, and they get along well with others.
For some, however, the Great Dane’s size can be an issue if you’re short on space. But you won’t ever have to worry about them being too loud.
3. Basenji
The Basenji is easily one of the most interesting quiet dog breeds on this list. They are known as the “barkless dog” because they don’t bark – they don’t know how to!
They do tend to yodel at times, though. If you’re a first-time dog owner, the Basenji might not be the ideal pet for you as they’re a bit high maintenance. However, if you’re experienced and can dedicate time to training, then the Basenji could be the breed for you.
4. Whippet
The Whippet is disciplined, docile, and not known for being vocal.
The breed likes to keep to themselves, so they don’t need much attention like other dogs.
If you’re looking for a dog to cuddle up with on the couch, this might not be the pet for you. But if you like a pup who’s a bit more independent, the Whippet is your dog.
5. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a robust and strapping breed that doesn’t make much noise.
These dogs love to play and have fun. Weighing up to 120 pounds, they’re what you might call a gentle giant.
Friendly and sociable, the Bernese Mountain Dog makes a great pet – if you have the space for them.
6. Shar-Pei
The Shar-Pei is cute, cuddly, and only barks when feeling overwhelmed, making it one of the best quiet dog breeds on the block.
The breed isn’t a huge fan of strangers or other dogs, so this could lead to a rare barking episode.
Quick and eager to learn, the Shar-Pei does well with training, which is very important for an independent breed like this.
7. Collie
Mostly known for its shepherding abilities, the Collie is highly intelligent and can be trained to be quiet indoors.
They’re high-energy dogs, so they’ll need plenty of exercise. But, if you can provide this, you’ll have a well-behaved, charming canine that does well with other pets and children.
8. Greyhound
These sleek dogs don’t like noisy environments, and they certainly don’t like being noisy either. So if you have the space and the time to give them enough exercise, the Greyhound might be the right quiet dog breed for you.
Independent and almost cat-like, the Greyhound will quickly become a beloved household member.
9. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland, or Newfie as their owners affectionately call them, stands up to 30 inches tall and weighs up to 150 pounds. But, while their presence is imposing, you won’t have to worry about the noise they make.
Calm, patient, and quiet, the Newfie makes a loyal companion and beloved family member. The only downside is they take up a lot of room and don’t do well in apartments or smaller spaces.
10. Akita
Another entry on the list of quiet dog breeds is the Akita. This loyal and dignified dog is relatively calm and peaceful.
Akitas are easy to train and require moderate exercise and activity. In some ways, they are like a cat – they like to groom themselves and are independent yet loyal.
11. Irish Setter
The Irish Setter is lovable and loyal with lots of energy even though they’re vibrant and full of life that fortunately doesn’t translate to lots of barking and baying.
While you won’t have to deal with much noise from this dog, you’ll have to give them a lot of exercise. Irish Setters are exceptional with kids and other pets and love being part of a family, so if you are looking for a great family dog, consider this breed!
12. Rhodesian Ridgeback
Originally bred as guard dogs and to hunt lions, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is protective without being loud. They’re loyal to their owners and unlikely to bark unless they sense danger.
However, the breed is strong-willed, so they can be a challenge for first-time dog owners. With training, you’ll find the breed to be even-tempered, affectionate, and refined.
13. Bulldog
Quickly rising in the ranks of the most selected dogs, the Bulldog is becoming a popular choice for new dog owners.
People love the breed’s cute, wrinkly face and easy-going, friendly nature. But, of course, it also helps that they don’t require much exercise, and they’re one of the quietest dog breeds out there.
14. Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu is a spirited, independent dog with a brilliant mind and an adorable appearance. The Shiba is a quiet dog and makes a perfect pet for apartment living.
It is often said that the Shiba Inu is like a cat in a dog’s body. So if you’re looking for a quieter, independent dog, this is an excellent pick for you.
15. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is winning over legions of fans who appreciate their adorable appearance and affectionate and playful nature, especially with kids and other pets.
Another benefit: They’re one of the quietest dog breeds. If properly cared for, the breed doesn’t bark much.
Conclusion: Quiet Dog Breeds
Whether you’re living in an apartment or just don’t want a noisy, barking dog, you have many great options for quiet dog breeds.
Just make sure to do your research (more on that below), so you get the dog that best fits your living space, personality, and lifestyle. The right dog for you is out there!
Quiet Dog Breeds Bonus Tip: How to Pick the Right Dog
When you’re looking for a dog but don’t know what breed to get, these nine easy questions can help quickly narrow your search and find a four-legged friend who perfectly fits your lifestyle.
1. Why Do You Want a Dog?
First things first, let’s talk about why you want a dog. This will guide you more than you realize!
For example, do you love cuddling up on the couch and want a tiny furball to curl up in your lap and keep you company? Or do you want an energetic and enthusiastic dog who fits your active lifestyle?
Stop for a minute, close your eyes and think about it.
2. What Type of Dog Did You Have Growing up?
Believe it or not, the dog (or dogs) you grew up with often impacts what type of dog you want when you’re older.
That’s certainly not to say you couldn’t pick a different type of dog by any means. It’s just that people often have a comfort level with the kind of canine they were conditioned to growing up.
3. Do You Have Any Allergies?
Dogs can be awful for allergies. But fortunately, there are many hypoallergenic dog breeds that make it easier for allergy sufferers.
If you’re looking at quiet dog breeds and have allergies, always learn more about the breed before bringing it into your home.
4. Who’s in Your Household?
Another essential thing to think about is who is in your household.
Is it just you? Or do you have a partner? Roommates? Children?
This is incredibly important to consider, especially if you have little ones in the household.
5. Where Do You Live?
As you think about which dog breed is right for you, where you live is incredibly important.
Certain breeds just aren’t cut out for small spaces. For example, a Great Dane in a tiny apartment would be a disaster!
Also, certain dogs need space and a yard to run and exercise.
6. How Much Time and Energy Do You Have?
Dogs are A LOT of work. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. But some dogs require much more effort than others.
Potential pup parents should always make sure they have the time, energy, and resources to care for a dog, no matter the breed. But that level of care can increase depending on the dog.
Before committing to one of these quiet dog breeds, make sure you understand the breed’s instincts and how much mental and physical stimulation they’ll require.
7. What is the Dog’s Temperament?
Just like appearance, a pup’s temperament can vary greatly by breed. And it’s critical to find out how a dog will act based on its breed instincts.
These quiet dog breeds can vary greatly. Some have easy-going, pleasant personalities, while others are more aloof. Ultimately, it all depends on what you’re looking for.
8. How Much Does the Breed Cost?
Owning a dog isn’t cheap, but some breeds are more expensive than others, especially for some of the rarer canines among these quiet dog breeds.
Cost is a consideration, and it’s always a good idea to understand the complete picture before committing.
Things to consider include the initial expense, vet bills, food, grooming, and other costs like daycare or boarding.
9. Breed Finder
And finally, try out our online breed selector and get a list of the best breeds for you and your lifestyle.
It allows you to enter details like where you live, who’s in your house, your climate, what size of dog you’re looking for, and more. You’ll receive a list of breeds that will work for you.
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