10 Quiet Dog Breeds That Don’t Bark

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Dogs are wonderful companions but sometimes you need all of the love without the noise. Quiet dog breeds are less likely to bark, howl, or whine and are perfect if you live in an apartment or simply want to keep the peace at home. These breeds are well suited to life in the city as they are less likely to be disturbed by external noises.

Why Do Dogs Bark?

Barking is how dogs communicate. All dogs bark but some are a lot more talkative than others. Some breeds are more prone to barking in response to playing, loneliness, and boredom. Barking for attention is quite common in more vocal breeds too.

Training can be an effective way to reduce barking but choosing a quieter breed is the best option if you want a dog that won’t bark a lot.

Are Smaller Dogs Noisier Than Larger Dogs?

Generally, small dogs do tend to make more noise than larger dogs. Research scientist Alexandra Horowitz suggests small dogs may be barking more to compensate for their smaller size, using barking as a way to assert dominance.

While larger dogs are quieter and tend to be quite mellow, there are a few quiet small dog breeds out there too.

Top 10 Quiet Dog Breeds

Discover our top 10 quiet dog breeds:

1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

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The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is one of just a few small breeds that doesn’t tend to yap or bark a lot. These dogs are calm, good-natured, and well-behaved, if you have a Cavalier you’ll find they like to stay close to you and don’t enjoy being left alone. Cavaliers are social dogs and they are happy to spend the day chilling out - as long as you are there with them.

Height: 30-33cm
Size: Small
Character: Affectionate, sweet, docile
Life Expectancy: 12- 14 years

2. Rhodesian Ridgeback

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The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large, distinct-looking dog with a ridged back. These dogs are incredibly courageous, loyal, and gentle around family. Ridgebacks need plenty of exercise each day and they love to play. If you are looking for an energetic but quiet large dog breed the Rhodesian Ridgeback is worth considering.

Height: 61-69cm
Size: Large
Character: Intelligent, friendly, courageous
Life Expectancy:12-14 years

3. Saluki

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The Saluki is a friendly and devoted hound that is known for being graceful, elegant, and athletic. These large dogs are known as the greyhound of the desert and are incredibly loyal to their owners. Salukis are known for being placid and quiet but they do need lots of exercise.

Height: 58-71cm
Size: Large
Character: Loyal, obedient, friendly
Life Expectancy: 12 - 14 years

4. St Bernard

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St Bernards are loyal, affectionate, and quiet. These charming dogs are huge in size but they are eager to please making them relatively easy to train and handle. St Bernards are gentle, excellent with children, and adaptable making them great family dogs.

Height: 65-80cm
Size: Huge
Character: Intelligent, affectionate, gentle
Life Expectancy: 8-10 years

5. Shiba Inu

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The Shiba Inu is a highly adaptable dog breed that makes a great choice for first-time owners looking for a quieter dog. Shiba Inus don’t bark much but will bark when they want attention or are feeling super playful. Shibas have an independent side but they are easy to train and eager to please.

Height: 33-41cm
Size: Small
Character: Loyal, fun-loving, inquisitive
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years

6. Greyhound

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Greyhounds are sweet-natured, gentle, and easy-going. Although known for their speed and athletic abilities, greyhounds don’t need a huge amount of exercise and actually spend a lot of the day sleeping. Greyhounds are large but low-maintenance dogs that are playful, eager to please, and gentle around children.

Height: 68-76cm
Size: Large
Character: Friendly, intelligent, loyal
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years

7. Newfoundland

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The Newfoundland is a gentle giant that almost looks bear-like thanks to its size and heavy coat. These dogs are calm, quiet, and sensitive Newfoundlands are a popular family pet and they are known for being excellent around children. The Newfoundland is very loyal, easy to train and needs plenty of exercise.

Height: 66-71cm
Size: Huge
Character: Devoted, patient, gentle
Life Expectancy: 8-10 years

8. Basenji

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The Basenji is a unique breed that doesn’t bark but does make a yodel-type of noise. This ‘barkless’ dog is compact, intelligent, and energetic. Basenjis have a hunting background so they do have a high prey drive and need plenty of exercise each day. If you’re looking for a high-energy dog that is full of character but is also easy to live with, the Basenji is a good choice.

Height: 38-43cm
Size: Medium
Character: Alert, loyal, independent
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years

9. Afghan Hound

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The Afghan Hound is one of the most recognisable dog breeds in the world with its long legs and beautiful flowing coats. Afghan Hounds are gentle, loyal, and playful, they are wonderful family dogs and they hardly ever bark. One thing to know about this dog breed is that they are known for being stubborn so early training is a must.

Height: 63-74cm
Size: Large
Character: Loyal, friendly, playful
Life Expectancy: 10-12 years

10. French Bulldog

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The French Bulldog is a great choice if you’re looking for a small dog that doesn’t bark. These dogs are perfect for apartment owners thanks to their size, adaptability and quiet nature. French Bulldogs are fantastic companions, they are friendly, loving, and entertaining.