Are There Any Breeds of Dogs That Don’t Bark?

The love for one’s own four-legged friend is of course unconditional. Nevertheless, there are one or the other quality that owners like to do without in their dog. Excessive barking is a must. Fortunately, there are some dog breeds that bark little.

The Essentials in Brief

• Small dogs, in particular, especially terriers, are big barkers;
• Classic guard dogs like the German Shepherd Dog also like to defend loudly;
• Another reason why Labrador and Goldie are so popular breeds is that they bark little;
• Mentally and physically busy dogs bark less.

Barking as a Means of Communication

Barking is one of the dog’s most important means of communication. It expresses fear, threat, excitement, or joy through the utterance of voices. Small breeds in particular tend to make more vocalizations. Due to their size, they have to assert themselves against larger conspecifics. Many taller dogs are more relaxed and simply don’t get upset that quickly. Little-barking, easy-care dog breeds are good for beginners and seniors. If they are also small, they can also be kept in the city apartment.

Large Breeds of Dogs That Bark Little

Here is an overview of large dog breeds that don’t bark a lot:

Retriever

Whether Labrador or Goldie: Retrievers are not born guard dogs. Originally they were bred for hunting. Sometimes they had to wait quietly for hours with their hunter. So rest is in their genes. Retrievers are also extremely friendly comrades – before they bark at someone, they greet them effusively.

Akita Inu

The favorite dog of the Japanese – known from the hit movie Hachiko, by the way – is very self-confident. He doesn’t even need to assert himself about excessive yapping. However, this healthy self-confidence is also a challenge for his person: Akita Inus are constantly testing their limits anew.

German Mastiff

Imposing, stoic, and incredibly friendly: Great Danes are far too relaxed and playful for territorial behavior or fear barking. They also just don’t enjoy barking. A lot has to happen to upset a Great Dane.

Greyhound

The greyhound is also one of the laid-back giants. Although he is an excellent runner and develops real explosive power in his element, he prefers to spend his time relaxing in a lying position. Get upset about little things? Not with this very calm breed of dog.

Medium to Small Breeds of Dogs That Bark Little

Here is a selection of small to medium-sized dogs that keep calm:

Pug

The cute pug is not only so popular because he is so playful and charming. His defining qualities also include docility and his sociable manner. He is simply not interested in excessive yapping. He’d rather play.

Basenji

The sporty Basenji comes from Africa. At first glance, it looks like the Parson Jack Russel Terrier. In contrast to this barking breed, the Basenji is not a loud dog. To be precise, he can’t really bark at all: due to his anatomy, making aloud sounds more like a hoarse laugh to him.

French bulldog

The small, lively French Bulldogs have no interest in barking. They prefer to romp over fields or play with fellow animals or their own master. Threatening gestures or watchdog behavior are far from him.

Lhasa Apso

Visually it is almost confusingly similar to the Pekingese. In terms of character, however, the two races have little in common. While the Pekingese barks with thieving joy and perseverance, the Lhasa Apso is not a barker. If at all, he barks out of joy or excitement – but rarely. They are definitely one of those calm dog breeds that are ideal for seniors.

Breeds of Dogs That Bark a Lot

If you are looking for a dog that barks little, it is best to stay away from the following breeds:

• German shepherd dog;
• Terriers in general – especially Yorkshire, Cairn, Fox, and West Highland Terriers;
• Beagle;
• Miniature and medium schnauzers;
• Pekinese.

Our Recommendation: Utilization Helps

In addition to the breed-typical behavior, other reasons are responsible for excessive barking in dogs. Boredom in particular is one of the most common triggers. If Bello is bored with a sluggish lifestyle, he looks for something to do himself. And barking is fun! When barking, happiness hormones are released in the brain – so it is a self-rewarding activity. With enough activity – physically and mentally – you can prevent undesirable behavior from the start.