Looking for dog breeds that bark the least? If you’re living in an apartment or simply value peace and quiet, a calm and quiet dog might be the perfect match. In this guide, we’ll explore the quietest dog breeds, explain why some dogs bark less, and help you find the ideal low-barking companion.
Table of Contents
- Why Some Dogs Bark Less
- Top 10 Dog Breeds That Bark the Least
- Are Low-Barking Dogs Good for Apartments?
- Training Tips for Quiet Behavior
- Pro Tips and Common Mistakes
- FAQ
Why Some Dogs Bark Less
Not all dogs are created equal when it comes to barking. Breeds that were not bred for guarding or herding often have a lower tendency to bark. Genetics, training, and environment all play a role. For example, companion breeds tend to bark less than working or watchdog breeds.
Top 10 Dog Breeds That Bark the Least
Here are the top breeds known for being calm, quiet, and great for noise-sensitive households:
- Basenji – Known as the “barkless dog.” Instead of barking, they make a yodel-like sound.
- Greyhound – Despite being athletic, they’re very quiet and relaxed indoors.
- Whippet – Similar to the Greyhound, very calm and rarely barks.
- Shiba Inu – Can be vocal occasionally but generally quiet and clean.
- Bulldog – Low energy and minimal barking, great for small spaces.
- Borzoi – Elegant and quiet, bred for speed, not for noise.
- Newfoundland – Gentle giant, barks rarely unless something’s truly wrong.
- French Bulldog – A popular apartment dog, playful but not barky.
- Great Dane – Surprisingly low-barking despite their size.
- Chow Chow – Dignified and quiet, tends to keep to themselves.
Are Low-Barking Dogs Good for Apartments?
Absolutely. If you’re looking for dogs for apartments that don’t bark, the breeds listed above are excellent candidates. Quiet dogs are less likely to upset neighbors and can adjust better to indoor lifestyles. Always pair breed choice with proper training to ensure peace at home.
Training Tips for Quiet Behavior
- Reward silence instead of reacting to barking.
- Use commands like “quiet” or “enough” and reward when they stop.
- Provide enough physical and mental stimulation to avoid boredom barking.
- Desensitize your dog to triggers like doorbells or neighbors.
Pro Tips and Common Mistakes
Pro Tip: Adopt from a shelter and ask for dogs with calm temperaments—they’re often overlooked.
Common Mistake: Assuming a small dog is automatically quiet. Many small breeds, like Chihuahuas, are actually quite vocal!
FAQ
- Do quiet dogs still need training?
Yes, even calm breeds benefit from positive reinforcement training. - Can barking be trained out of a dog?
Excessive barking can often be reduced with training and structure. - Which is the absolute quietest dog?
The Basenji is considered the quietest due to its unique vocal cords.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a dog breed that barks the least doesn’t mean compromising on personality or companionship. Whether you live in an apartment or just want a peaceful environment, the right breed—combined with proper training—can bring harmony to your home.
For more breed recommendations, check out our guides on dogs for apartment living and non-shedding family dogs.
External Reference: Learn more about quiet dog breeds on AKC.
