Are you looking for dogs who don't bark a lot? You're not alone. Many folks love the canine species, but don't necessarily enjoy the constant barking, yipping, and yapping that some pooches love to do.
If you want a dog that doesn't feel the need or the urge to vocalize at every movement, check out our top 10 quiet dog breeds list. You may find your next best furry friend here.
1. Basenji, The "Barkless" Dog From Africa
The Basenji may be known for his 'barkless' quality; however, you will need to know what you're getting yourself into with this breed. The Basenji is very intelligent and will use his ability to escape from the yard if something catches his fancy.
This breed also has a stubborn streak and has no problem ignoring your requests if she doesn't feel like performing it. On the upside, the Basenji is a loving dog that does well with children, and other dogs, but not so much with cats or other furry members of the family since the Basenji does have a strong prey drive.
The Basenji has its paws dug into some ancient roots. In fact, there is evidence of this pooch hanging out with the Egyptians around 4,000 BCE. Experts believe the breed was used as a gift to the Pharaohs.
Weight: 22 to 24 pounds
Height: Up to 17 inches at the shoulder
Lifespan: Up to 12 years
Fun Basenji Fact: The Basenji may not bark, but it will yodel, whimper, growl, and emit a hair-raising scream when he gets scared.
2. Bulldog - The Sofa Pooch
If you're looking for a quiet companion that loves to "ride the sofa," then the Bulldog may be it. This smooshie-faced fella is relatively laidback and loves to hang out with his favorite humans.
Don't want to walk a lot? That's fine with the Bulldog as his exercise needs are minimal. Maybe this genetic trait is because the Bulldog was once used in the bloody "sport" of bull baiting, so he has earned the right to a life filled with serenity, long naps, and an eternal kindness to his devoted family.
Be aware that the Bulldog does not do well in extreme heat or the cold so air conditioning and a sweater for those frosty days will be required.
Weight: Up to 50 pounds
Height: Up to 15 inches at the shoulder
Lifespan: 8 to 12 years
Fun Bulldog Fact: Bulldogs aren't big barkers, but be prepared for the snoring when your "Bully" is napping away the day.
3. Bernese Mountain Dog - The Happy-Go-Lucky Canine
The Bernese Mountain Dog is not only handsome, but its loyalty and affection towards its family are second-to-known. This breed hailed from Bern Canton (central region of Switzerland) and was bred to be a herding, cart-pulling, and guard dog. In fact, the Bernese still loves to haul carts, today. With this in mind, the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America holds a "cart competition."
Bernes line up for the race (carts in tow) while spectators watch these anxious competitors come alive for the thrill of the pull. And don't worry, the Bernese are extremely strong. They can haul up to 1,000 pounds (or ten times their weight)!
This breed doesn't just like to haul things, it is very intelligent, and loves to play, too! Whether that be with the kids or its canine buddies at the doggie park, this family pet is always up for a game or two.
Since the breed is considered a working dog, it will need a job to prevent it from becoming bored and destructive. Early obedience training is highly recommended for a happy and well-mannered Bernese.
Weight: 70 to 115 pounds
Height: Up to 28 inches at the shoulder
Lifespan: 6 to 10 years
Fun Bernese Mountain Dog Fact: This dog only barks when it has a reason to, so take notice when your Bernese is "alerting" you to something.
4. Shiba Inu - Bold & Fiery Personality
This breed originated in Japan and is the smallest of the six Spitz breeds. Shiba's are alert and bold, yet good-natured. If there were ever a ninja dog, the Shiba Inu would be it, moving quickly, and effortlessly. These traits may be why it was used to hunt birds, boars, and even bears.
Although, you may be in for a struggle when it comes to this breeds stubborn nature, what he lacks in "obedience," he well makes up for in affection. According to the American Kennel Club, Shiba's are the number one companion dog in their country of origin, Japan.
Since Shiba Inu is not easy to train, it is recommended that you start obedience classes early as well as socialization with other dogs, people, and places.
Weight: 17 to 23 pounds
Height: 13 to 17 inches at the shoulder
Lifespan: 12 to 16 years
Fun Shiba Inu Fact: This breed will quietly escape from your backyard, so be sure your fence is secure.
5. Whippet - Long, Lean & Lovely
There's a quiet elegance about the Whippet with its long, lean lines and slender appearance. Created around the 18th century, the Whippet was used to poach rabbits. Today, it is warming the hearts (and feet) of pet parents around the world.
The Whippet is quiet, devoted, and loving to its family. However, due to its strong prey drive, no cats or small furry critters are allowed! You will also want to keep your Whippet on a leash when out-and-about, as it will give chase to squirrels or other small "prey."
If you think the Whippet is fast, you'd be right. This dog can reach the breakneck speed of 35 mph! This is mainly due to its "double suspension gallop," where all four feet connect with the ground at the same time.
Weight: 18 to 48 pounds
Height: 18 to 22 inches at the shoulder
Lifespan: 12 to 15 years
Fun Whippet Fact: Due to their quiet and gentle nature, the Whippet is suited to apartment living, as long as they have daily exercise.
6. Shih Tzu - The "Little Lion"
The Shih Tzu's name may mean "little lion," but there is nothing ferocious about this bundle of furry fun. This playful pooch was bred to be a companion dog, and a companion dog he is; happy, affectionate, and outgoing are qualities you will enjoy in the Shih Tzu.
Another nickname the Shih Tzu has earned is the "chrysanthemum-faced dog." This is because the hair on its muzzle grows in every direction, resembling the chrysanthemum flower.
This long-haired breed of dog loves to be in the company of his humans, whether that be out in the yard, on a walk, or lounging on the sofa. Great for novice pet parents and for those that dwell in apartments, the Shih Tzu will be happily by your side all day (and night) long. He loves children and gets along well with other animals, too!
Weight: 9 to 16 pounds
Height: 9 to 10 inches at the shoulder
Lifespan: 10 to 16 years
Fun Shih Tzu Fact: This pooch comes from a royal lineage. Royal Chinese families once kept this canine as a companion during the Ming Dynasty.
7. Saluki - Quietly Devoted
The Saluki is another old dog breed and was once considered a "gift from Allah." And what a gift this pooch is. The Saluki is a quick as lightning, as slender as a supermodel, and carries a quiet devotion to its pet parent.
Its very name means "The Noble," and one look at this beautiful creature will affirm that title. The Saluki is an affectionate dog without being 'clingy' and can be a bit choosey as to who wins its devotion and love.
Like it's "cousins" the Greyhound, and Whippet, the Saluki has a strong prey drive and will give chase to any furry critter (including cats). In fact, this breed can reach speeds of 30 to 35 mph, so be sure you always have your Saluki on a leash when out for a hike in the woods or walking around the neighborhood.
Weight: 35 to 70 pounds
Height: 23 to 28 inches at the shoulder
Lifespan: 12 to 14 years
Fun Saluki Fact: This breed is quiet and alert, making it a good watchdog. However, it is not a guard dog - they are fearless when hunting, but not confronting.
8. Dalmatian - The "Spotted" Athlete
Thanks to Disney's "101 Dalmatians" this breed may be one of the most recognized. With its unique patterned black spots and dots on a snow-white body, the Dalmatian is a beauty to behold. This breed dated back several hundred years and was used as a ratter, guard, hunter, performer, and, of course, a firehouse pooch.
The goofy charm of the Dalmatian is just one of its many amazing qualities. The Dal is known for its athleticism in all doggie sports including flyball and agility. It is a smart breed, but can also be a bit stubborn, so early training in obedience is recommended.
The Dalmatian is very affectionate with his family members and even towards kind strangers. But be aware of this dog's exercise needs (which is high) so it will not do well in an apartment dwelling or with extended periods of being left alone.
Weight: 48 to 55 pounds
Height: 19 to 24 inches at the shoulder
Lifespan: 13 to 16 years
Fun Dalmatian Fact: This breed gets along well with horses, which is why they were once used as coaching dogs that ran alongside the carriages.
9. Doberman Pinscher - The Natural Protector
The Doberman Pinscher (Dobie to his friends) has struck fear into those that don't know his deeper inner nature - this pooch is a big love-bug. It is true, the Dobie will protect his home and those that he loves, but he doesn't set out looking for trouble.
This breed needs a lot of exercises and mental stimulation to keep him healthy, and happy. He will also need to be obedience trained early on, as this breed tends to take on the role as "alpha" if left to his own devices.
Never leave your Dobie tied outside (especially in extreme weather). This breed craves the love and affection of his family and won't complain if his bed is placed in front of the warmth of a crackling fire.
Weight: 60 to 80 pounds
Height: 24 to 28 inches at the shoulder
Lifespan: 10 to 13 years
Fun Doberman Pinscher Fact: This breed tends to retain that "puppyish" behavior until they reach about three years of age.
10. Borzoi - Tall, Lean & Elegant
This beautiful sighthound makes running look easy. With its long, lean lines, flowing hair and built-for-speed body, the Borzoi is an excellent dog for those that have the time and ability to handle it.
Hailing originally from Russia, the Borzoi was bred to hunt rabbits, wolves, and fox, so it has retained that strong prey drive. However, don't let its history fool you. The Borzoi doesn't require a lot of exercises and actually prefers a short stroll over a long-distance run.
If you are away from home for long periods, the Borzoi will not be the best choice for you. This dog thrives on human companionship and will return your favor with sweet, gentle affection and loyalty that will melt your heart.
Weight: 55 to 105 pounds
Height: 26 to 32 inches at the shoulder
Lifespan: 10 to 12 years
Fun Borzoi Fact: This quiet breed does not make a good watchdog as it doesn't tend to "raise the alarm" if an intruder is sighted.
Quiet Dogs - They Do Exist!
If you love dogs, but also want one that doesn't bark all the time, start by choosing a breed from our top 10 quiet dog list. Do further research on the specific breed or breeds you are most interested in to be sure they will suit your lifestyle. Then search for a reputable breeder or rescue organization to adopt your next quiet best furry friend from.