Table of Contents
- Why Do Some Dog Breeds Bark More than Others?
- 41 Most Quiet Dog Breeds for Apartment Living
- 1. Pug
- 2. Great Dane
- 3. Basenji
- 4. Whippet
- 5. Bernese Mountain Dog
- 6. Borzoi
- 7. Chinese Shar-Pei
- 8. Collie
- 9. Italian Greyhound
- 10. Newfoundland Dog
- 11. Saint Bernard
- 12. Saluki
- 13. Irish Setter
- 14. Rhodesian Ridgeback
- 15. Golden Retriever
- 16. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- 17. Bullmastiff
- 18. The Great Pyrenees
- 19. Chinook
- 20. Scottish Deerhound
- 21. Sloughi
- 22. English Bulldog
- 23. Leonberger
- 24. English Toy Spaniel
- 25. Bolognese
- 26. Azawakh
- 27. Afghan Hound
- 28. Swedish Vallhund
- 29. Japanese Chin
- 30. Akita
- Honorable Mentions for Quiet Dogs Breeds
- Most Quiet Dog Breeds According to Size
- Quietest Dog Breeds for Apartments: FAQs
- Most Quiet Dog Breeds: Before You Go…
Ever considered adopting quiet dog breeds for your apartment?
Then hooman, you are contemplating the right thing.
The truth is, complaints about barking dogs topped the informal survey conducted by The New York Times in 2011.
And in a different interview with Sgt. Dustin Delridge of the Montana Police Department, “Barking definitely affects people’s lives.”
Along with the police report, a local complained about 3 Rottweilers howling like “blow horns or subwoofers” in their neighborhood each night.
Man, that's annoying.
Despite the fact that these are innocent animals, the owners could have done something, right?
And I couldn't agree more with what spcaLA president, Madeline Bernstein, said:
“It’s really important to ‘think before you adopt’ and determine if you have the time, the lifestyle and the schedule to give a dog the kind of care he or she needs.”
I know getting a dog is exciting, but it sure is nerve-wracking, too.
And as a first-time pup parent, I thought feeding and bathing them were enough.
Spoiler alert: Dogs can get all kinds of crazy.
They can be really needy; they'll do anything to get your attention.
And each time your furball gets a little extra, you need to triple up your patience meter.
… and probably a little more for your neighbors, too.
So today, I came up with a list of the 42 quietest dog breeds I know that will suit your apartment life.
And hopefully, this will help you get started with your pup-parenting adventure and keep your neighbor-of-the-year badge, too.
JUMP TO SECTION
Complete List of Quiet Dog Breeds
Why Do Some Dog Breeds Bark More than Others?
Dogs are bred for different reasons.
And while dog breeds vary, you can't deny getting annoyed by your pup's loud barking sometimes.
So, here are some factors to consider as to why some dogs bark a lot.
Genetics and Instinct
According to a study, barking is found to be more than just an instinct in canines.
And experts claim that it:
“…provides information for humans about the inner state of the dog although there are few indications that barking is used for intra-species communication.”
Barking in dogs has been proven as a means of communication (1, 2, 3). Dogs bark as a way of alerting, calling to action, or simply as a greeting (4).
In a 2010 study, researchers discovered that some family dog breeds tend to bark more, whereas others tend to stay silent more often.
For instance, they found that wolf breeds (Shar-peis, Basenjis, and Chow Chows) are generally quieter and bark less.
The tendency to bark isn't the only factor to consider here, though.
The type of bark matters, too.
Science on Barking Types of Different Breeds
According to various studies (1,2), barking in dogs has a variable acoustic structure.
And depending on the dog and its intentions, the frequency of bark can range from 160 Hz up to 2630 Hz.
In a 2000 study (PDF), scientists analyzed not only barking by breed but also all possible types of audible communication breeds produce.
Using previous data from a 1979 book on the science of communication in different species, they classified barks as such:
Infantile bark (pup yelp)
A harmonic sound (240 Hz to 920 Hz frequency) that's emitted by the dog spontaneously as a distress call or protest.
Harmonic play bark
It varies from a few wide frequency bands to numerous narrow bands (160 Hz to 880 Hz frequency).
This non-aggressive sound is generally made by the dog in a relaxed state, such as during playtime.
“Christmas tree” bark
This was labeled like this because of the appearance on the sonogram of its sequential loss of overtones in the form of a Christmas tree.
Noisy play bark
It is a low-pitched, short, and harsh sound with a sharp rise (peaking at 1206 Hz frequency in Bull Terriers), often released by dogs during the change in behavior, particularly when it's turning into aggressive mode.
Threat bark
This was the final classification that had the lowest pitch and highest frequency (at 2360 Hz) and was the most abrupt.
Medical Condition
Some dogs also have a higher barking tendency due to certain medical conditions that affect their well-being.
Quiet or not, dogs tend to bark due to health problems, such as:
- Chronic vomiting
- Metabolic disorders
- Respiratory conditions
- The larynx or throat problem
Meanwhile, some dog breeds rarely bark due to specific health conditions as well.
For instance, the Bouvier des Flandres is known to have paralysis of the larynx as an inherited condition, making them bark less.
Temperament
Another thing to consider why your dogs bark a lot is their temperament and personality.
While they have a gazillion reasons to be loud, pups also come in different packages.
And the more emotionally sensitive or vocal your dog is, well, you already know the drill.
But in most cases, it comes down to meeting your dog's needs, such as the following:
- Proper diet
- Sufficient socialization
- Adequate living condition
- More exercise or playtime
When I got my first dog, one thing I regret is keeping it away from other pets at home.
I thought I was protecting it from fights, aggression, and whatnot.
Anything can happen, right?
I admit I was a bit paranoid.
Unfortunately, my protectiveness only made my dog hate every animal it met; the more when it saw me getting close to other pets.
And believe it or not, my spoiled boy doesn't even want to mate, too.
Plus, the excessive barking.
So, if it's your first time getting a dog, then listen up.
Don't be afraid to take your pups outside and let their paws on the dirt.
Allow them to socialize as much as you can. The earlier you start, the friendlier they get as they mature.
On the other side, some dogs may get noisier when they're in a group. Researchers found that even quiet dog breeds may bark more when in a group of other dogs (5).
RELATED READ: 25 Best Dog Breeds for Small Apartments
41 Most Quiet Dog Breeds for Apartment Living
1. Pug
The first on the list is the very famous and lovely pet dog, the Pug.
Who wouldn't want one?
You'll get a couch potato, a power napper, and a peacemaker all wrapped into one adorable pooch.
And yup, Pugs only bark when they feel extremely threatened or are, of course, starving.
Though you may notice heavy breathing in your Pugs, this is due to their shorter snouts.
Okay, back to the pros.
There's no wonder why they're one of the most popular dogs out there — they rarely get you into trouble.
And personality aside, a Pug's adorable, heart-melting look takes the credit, too.
Don't you get mesmerized by those eyes?
2. Great Dane
Regardless of their terrifying size, the Great Dane is considered one of the quietest dogs you can have.
And not just that, this canine is one of the most intelligent breeds, too.
Looks can be deceiving.
You might get intimidated by their stance and leader-like build.
But, you'll rarely hear Great Danes bark the loudest.
And if you can fit this loving and calm dog into your apartment, it's certainly one of the best home buddies you can snuggle with.
3. Basenji
Well, if you've heard a Basenji barking before, consider yourself lucky.
Because out of all the quietest canines, the Basenji takes the cake for one simple reason — they just don't bark at all.
But like any other dog breed, Basenjis come with their own set of cons.
Nothing really alarming, though.
They just make yodeling noises.
Ever heard or watched Tarzan yell?
Yup, that's pretty much like it.
But as interesting as it sounds, Basenjis don't always yodel. In fact, they rarely do.
Trivia: Basenjis are bred for lion hunting in Africa, thanks to their yodeling skills and extreme intelligence.
Despite their silent nature, Basenjis aren't the best for first-time or busy owners as they can be difficult to care for.
Basenjis are independent dog breeds with oozing guts of steel and high energy.
Caring for one requires regular physical activities to prevent boredom.
4. Whippet
If you're looking for small couch potatoes, then this slender hunting dog makes a great cuddle buddy.
Popularly known as hunter's best friend, Whippets can stand a day without making any sound.
That said, they do retain a high prey drive and will, albeit silently, chase cats, squirrels, cars, and anything else that strikes their fancy.
But make no mistake, this Greyhound-like pooch will not back off at running sessions with you.
What makes Whippets even more ideal for apartment living?
They have little to no barking tendencies.
Despite their high energy level, the Whippet is an independent breed with little need for attention.
5. Bernese Mountain Dog
Imagine coming home from a day's work and seeing this fluffy pooch greet you as soon as you open the door…
Ain't that great, hooman?
You could be looking at that one, missing piece in your apartment.
The Bernese Mountain Dog, everyone.
Despite their big size and Rottweiler look, this canine breed is very gentle and quiet.
Constantly seeking new friends and adventure, the Bernese Mountain Dog is one of the friendliest you can ever have.
Not to mention, their politeness and affection towards their owners, strangers, and other animals.
RELATED READ: 30 Most Lazy Dog Breeds
6. Borzoi
Next on our list is the Borzoi dog breed.
As a legendary Russian hunting dog, Borzois are extremely smart and protective of their owners.
They're one of the fastest dogs on the planet, too.
What makes Borzoi a perfect roommate?
Well, they're very tranquil in the presence of strangers. Plus, they're one of the quietest dogs you can adopt.
While seemingly the exact opposite of a guard dog, just be sure not to mess around with their hoomans.
Remember: Borzois are large dog breeds. A larger space is suitable for them.
7. Chinese Shar-Pei
A very unique, teddy bear-like breed, the Chinese Shar-Pei definitely makes a great companion to spend an evening binge-watching your favorite TV series.
And despite their mighty origins as guard dogs in ancient China, their charm magnets a lot of dog parents in the world today.
What's more, this canine breed is surprisingly calm and more affectionate to humans than other animals.
So, keep that trait in mind.
They're guard dogs, after all; they'll alert you when they perceive danger or threat.
But overall, Chinese Shar-Peis makes a great apartment buddy with little to no tolerance for harmless noise.
8. Collie
Known for their herding ability, Collies‘ intelligence is more dominant than their barking tendencies.
If you've watched the 1994 film called Lassie, you'll know what I mean.
Not only are they the quietest dogs out there, but Collies also make the perfect indoor companions for apartment dwellers.
Despite their home buddy traits, Collies need regular exercise because of their high energy level.
But nothing to worry about; they’re extremely trainable, polite, and obedient.
A little reminder though, Collies require a lot of grooming and maintenance.
So, if you're allergic to danders and fur, bear this in mind.
RELATED READ: 8 Best Mixed-Breed Hypoallergenic Dogs
9. Italian Greyhound
A rare breed to see in an apartment these days is an Italian Greyhound.
But that's definitely not due to them being noisy in any way.
In fact, they're prone to noise stress and crowded areas.
Needless to say, pointless barking is the last thing on their agenda.
Perfect.
On the other hand, dogs in this breed will bark when something doesn’t seem right, but it isn’t an annoying yappy bark.
He has a “big dog” bark that is deep and intimidating.
That said, Italian Greyhounds prefer a calm living space.
So, consider this factor if you're living in a bustling city.
10. Newfoundland Dog
Another gigantic yet calm breed, the Newfoundland Dog is famous for its I-don't-give-a-damn attitude.
And if you're the introverted type, then you've found your perfect match.
Netflix and chill on a weekend? No problem!
With their bear-like size and appearance, nothing makes your place a little cozier than a cuddly Newfoundland pooch by your side.
Plus, they're friendly and very protective.
So, if you have the ideal apartment size and time to groom this working breed, then get this dog a spot at home.
RELATED READ: 30 Breeds That Are Good House Dogs
11. Saint Bernard
Speaking of working dog breeds, here's another famous one — Saint Bernard.
Known for working on life-saving missions, Saint Bernard dogs are very sociable and loving.
You can also barely hear them barking, except when strangers are around.
Still, Saint Bernards are very collected in their living space and generally good for apartment living, especially when trained at an early age.
12. Saluki
The Saluki is a gorgeous, silk-haired sighthound known for its hunting skills and abilities.
They are quite reserved and generally keep things to themselves.
While they distance themselves from strangers, their affection for their owner is unquestionable.
They get noisy sometimes though, but nothing you can't handle.
When training a Saluki puppy, this pup can be the quietest breed out there.
13. Irish Setter
The Irish Setter dog isn't just your typical breed, but you've probably seen them in tons of TV ads.
Besides their media gig, Irish Setters are absolutely family favorites, too.
Despite being a keen gun dog, it never consumes its energy on nuisance barking.
And since these gun dog breeds have high energy levels, you should stick to a regular playtime or physical routine.
While their coat requires grooming, they are a lovable and loyal breed that is easy to care for.
14. Rhodesian Ridgeback
Rhodesian Ridgeback is a pompous breed with a mighty history as lion hunters.
After all, they are known as the “African Lion Hound” for a reason.
With their Rhodesian roots, they're one of the best guard dogs you can find.
Despite their protective instinct, their devotion toward their owners is impressive.
You'll often find them in front of you, taking the lead in the face of threats before letting out a noise.
I better not move a muscle if I were that bad guy, though.
But when everything's clear and safe, Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are one of the most silent breeds for you.
Today, they are prized as an adaptable, quiet family dog instead.
15. Golden Retriever
Easily the most recognizable and popular breed in America, the Golden Retriever is a true people-lover with a free and friendly spirit, overflowing with energy and the desire for adventure.
There, I said it one breathing.
Personality-wise, Golden Retrievers are basically that one friend you like hanging out with all the time.
And guess what, no one-sided love exists in their world, too.
They'll love spending time with you and adore you until they call it a day.
Goldens, as they are usually called, do make noise now and again.
They'll let out a bark or two when they’re excited (which they most often are).
But if their energy is exhausted at physical activities, noisiness is the last thing you can expect.
So, remember to exercise your Golden Fidos, or else they'll get a little extra.
RELATED READ: 35 Best Medium and Small Dogs for Kids
16. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Petite, playful, and affectionate, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are another canine breed that will swoon in your heart.
And with those dangling ears, this royal pooch is definitely a head-turner.
What's more, they'll love you for eternity, too.
Okay, that sounded a bit too much.
But, really. They tend to get too attached to the point that you leaving them for a bathroom break scares them.
And while their emotions sometimes make them stubborn, a little loving and training will always do the trick.
As long as you feed your Spaniels the appropriate food and exercise them regularly, this lazy dog breed will stay healthy and live a long time.
That, paired with their size, makes them a great dog for small apartments, too.
Plus, Spaniels will bark to alert you in threatening scenarios.
Besides that, they're okay with being couch potatoes due to their moderate energy levels.
17. Bullmastiff
The Bullmastiff is the perfect example of loyalty among canines; they embody will and devotion.
Like Great Danes, the Bullmastiff's sheer size, weight, and nature are enough to intimidate an entire room even without letting a single breath.
Let alone, a bark.
But, let me assure you: This is a tranquil dog that's great with people as long as you have room for its size.
And because of their working instinct, they're overprotective of their owners and family members.
They are surprisingly patient with children and sick people, too.
Lastly, Bullmastiffs bark less.
But… they do snore (and fart) a lot.
At least, not loud enough to wake the neighbors, right?
18. The Great Pyrenees
It’s wonderful that there are so many large breeds on this list, isn't it?
Well, they usually come with big hearts.
No doubt about it.
So, taking our 18th spot today is the Great Pyrenees.
They don't just make perfect apartment buddies, Great Pyrenees dogs are brilliant animals with a steady temperament.
Patient, calm, and smart, they're undeniably wonderful family dogs.
Plus, Great Pyrenees dogs are easy to train and obedient to instructions.
They're not easily bothered by anything or anyone, too.
19. Chinook
The Chinook is a scarce breed of sled dog that originated in the White Mountains of New Hampshire.
You will rarely see them as pet dogs in most places across the U.S.
But they're also great companions for apartment living.
Because why not?
Chinooks are very patient and intelligent dogs; they're popular for their devotion to and pleasing their owner.
And they go well around other pets, too.
They are playful and great with kids. If the Chinook makes a racket, it is probably from over-excitement and joy.
They may also produce a whining sound. But their whining and the woo-woos are the only sounds you will usually hear from this “talking” fur-baby.
Despite their vocal tendencies at times, the Chinook dog is happy as long as you are.
It won’t bark if you don’t give them the cue for it, which is why it's on our quietest dog breeds list.
So, as long as you train your Fido right and show an example of what not to do, Chinooks are an easy winner on the list.
20. Scottish Deerhound
The Scottish Deerhound is one of the quietest dog breeds by nature and would take running over barking any day.
As the name implies, this big, slender dog was bred for deer hunting and assisting hunters in the wild.
These dogs may be large, but they are also gentle and extremely friendly.
Most notably, Scottish Deerhound dogs bond strongly with their owners.
Despite their low barking tendencies, they need a lot of space to romp.
So, city dwellers need to take them for frequent jaunts in the park.
And if you're a fitness junkie, you've found your perfect match!
RELATED READ: 40 Best Dog Breeds for Women
21. Sloughi
As another large (and stubborn) breed on the list, this pooch might appear a little intimidating for your preference.
But the Sloughi dog deserves a spot in your apartment.
Why?
They're sleek, tidy, silent, and (very) affectionate to their owners.
Although they're not receptive to strangers that much, Sloughis are highly committed to maintaining the atmosphere you impose after you train them.
Despite their unsuitability for first-time dog owners, this mighty Fido is one of the most loyal companions you'll ever meet.
Even for experienced pup owners, teaching and handling challenging pets like Sloughis need lots of understanding, time, and patience.
So, if you're up for the commitment, this doggo definitely deserves a try.
22. English Bulldog
Photo caption: Feed me hooman, then I should be fine.
Popular for its laziness, it's not a surprise to see the English Bulldog on this tally.
Too lazy to let out a bark, this wrinkly fur-riend prefers to lay down, eat, cuddle, and exercise.
Though, a little.
So, if there aren't a lot of things going on in your apartment life, these buddies are perfect.
With no need for a lengthy introduction, English Bulldogs are the epitome of, well, a chill life.
23. Leonberger
Another gigantic breed with a placid and affectionate nature, the Leonberger is a friend like no other.
Just like any other large breed on this list, Leonbergers do not bark to intimidate.
What sets these dogs apart from the other large breeds mentioned above is that they require more training than usual.
They also have great instincts for protecting their owners and homes, as well as one of the strongest bites of all dogs.
This breed is still very polite and sweet, nonetheless.
24. English Toy Spaniel
Often confused as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, the English Toy Spaniel is another popular small breed with low barking tendencies.
Like its relative, this Spaniel dog breed is also one of the most affectionate dogs you can adopt.
They'll love you like you're the last hooman on earth.
Not only are they tiny, but their loyalty and calmness fit perfectly for your apartment life, too.
What's even more adorable?
The English Toy Spaniel prefers your company over anything.
As long as you stick together, everything should be fine.
So, if you can share more playtime with them, they'll love it.
25. Bolognese
The Bolognese is another option for anyone in need of a silent furry roommate.
While this dog loves to be with you, there'll be times when it unleashes its stubbornness and sneaky tactics to get what it wants.
Although debatable, the Bolognese may overwhelm first-time or busy pet owners due to its tricky personality.
Loving and eager to please, this breed is easy to train–except for house training.
So while you may be able to curb any excess noise quickly, expect to be patient with the potty.
However, a bit of dog training basics, conditioning, and patience will help lessen this behavior.
Up for the challenge?
You'll get another loyal buddy if you do.
RELATED READ: 10 Best Dogs to Run With
26. Azawakh
Surely one of the most ancient breeds on this list, the Azawakh was named after its roots in the Azawakh Valley in the Sahara.
While loyal, protective, and (slightly) arrogant in nature, the Azawakh's politeness assures it's got your back no matter what.
And as long as their needs are met, they don't see any reason to bark other than to alert you in times of threat.
While generally a silent breed, Azawakhs need regular exercise and stimulating dog toys to complement their moderate energy levels.
27. Afghan Hound
Regal. Elegant. Rare.
Such short words to describe this long-haired pooch, you'll definitely be in awe at the sight of the Afghan Hound.
This dog is a luxuriously coated breed that's believed to have existed long before Christianity.
Interesting.
While often silent, Afghan Hounds require tedious grooming and bathing.
So, if you travel a lot or are busy most of the time, this is a factor to take note of.
Nevertheless, these breeds are often seen with pet owners living in apartments with ease.
Being one of the most beautiful dogs, you'll also notice them as familiar contenders in dog shows.
Despite their grooming needs, their quiet nature and lax temperament make them perfect companions for the right type of owner.
28. Swedish Vallhund
The Swedish Vallhund is a cute dog breed that's popularly known as a workforce auxiliary.
They may look similar to Corgis, but Swedish Vallhunds are far less vocal.
Because of their active lifestyle and intelligence, this canine breed needs lots of physical activities.
With this factor in mind, Swedish Vallhunds need active owners, too.
The more time they spend burning off their energy, the lesser their barking tendencies become.
29. Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin is a small, long-furred breed that can be a tranquil dog if treated right.
Despite popular belief in smaller dogs, the Japanese Chin is a pretty calm pooch and will stay silent most of the time.
Unlike many other small breeds, they have low barking tendencies and moderate energy levels as well.
They are quite independent and are not always in your face asking for attention; however, they do not like being totally alone, either.
When left alone, they will cry and bark due to separation anxiety.
But don't worry—they're 100% lovey-dovey to you and other pets, too.
So if you're looking for the quietest dog breed that doesn't need lots of attention, the Japanese Chin is for you.
30. Akita
The final pick on most quiet dog breeds is another popular and well-loved pooch—Akita.
Akita dogs receive a lot of recognition in Japan, their country of origin.
Known as the Silent Hunter, an Akita's prey drive is similar to a cat's.
Besides their hunting skills, this canine breed's loyalty is evidenced by the real-life story of Hachiko.
You better get tissues ready before watching that movie.
Perfect for apartment dwellings, a few things to take note of are the Akita's stubborn temperament and distant attitude towards other pets.
Their calm, quiet demeanor makes them great for living with humans.
While they don’t usually bark, they do grunt, moan, and mumble.
Despite this challenge, they are an intelligent breed.
With regular training and conditioning, they easily make the best companions at home.
Honorable Mentions for Quiet Dogs Breeds
Want more options for your next apartment dog?
Here are our runner-ups!
Note: While the following breeds do well in apartment living, they may differ in barking tendencies in any way.
- Affenpinscher
- American Eskimo Dog
- American Hairless Terrier
- Australian Terrier
- Boston Terrier
- Border Terrier
- Bichon Frise
- Barbet
- Brussels Griffon
- Biewer Terrier
- Bedlington Terrier
- Basset Hound
- Basset Fauve de Bretagne
- Cardigan Welsh Corgi
- Cairn Terrier
- Cocker Spaniel
- Chinese Crested
- Coton de Tulear
- Chihuahua
- Cesky Terrier
- Dachshund
- French Bulldog
- Havanese
- Lowchen
- Lhasa Apso
- Manchester Terrier
- Maltese
- Miniature Pinscher
- Pomeranian
- Pekingese
- Poodle
- Schipperke
- Silky Terrier
- Shih Tzu
- Shiba Inu
- Toy Fox Terrier
- Yorkshire Terrier
Most Quiet Dog Breeds According to Size
Small Quiet Dogs
(under 25 pounds)
1. Chinese Crested
A hypoallergenic dog, a Chinese Crested dog has a mane of hair and then a poof on the tail. The rest of the body is hairless.
There is also a recessive version, the Powderpuff, which is covered in hair.
You will be happy to know that both versions rarely bark.
They are happy-go-lucky pups that are satisfied playing with the kids or cuddling on the couch.
Prone to separation anxiety, they may whine when left alone.
2. Norwegian Lundehund
These acrobatic canines have toes that are double, and even triple, jointed.
Norwegian Lundehunds also have extra neck joints that allow them to turn their head around 180 degrees.
Come to think of it. That looks kinda weird, doesn't it?
They can climb cliffs, bookshelves, and fences.
With all that in mind, they may be hard to handle, but one benefit is that they rarely bark or howl.
More cat-like, they are the strong, silent type. Lunderhounds still make good watchdogs as they are wary of strangers and will sound an alarm.
3. Havanese
Developed strictly to be a lapdog, the Havanese has all the great characteristics of a canine that is taken everywhere.
That includes a low desire to bark.
Just like people, dogs have different personalities, but if you get a more talkative one, these pups are highly trainable.
As a popular breed, there are many disreputable and irresponsible breeders out there.
Make sure you get your pup from a responsible breeder so that the traits of your new dog are predictable.
4. French Bulldog
This quiet dog breed is mischievous, fun, and entertaining to most owners.
Although they are generally quiet, they will bark when people approach their territory (the house), so they still make good watchdogs.
Friendly with everyone in the family, French Bulldogs still need socialization training to curb their sometimes territorial nature.
If they do not get this training, they could turn into nuisance barkers.
Medium Quiet Dogs
(25 to 60 pounds)
5. Border Collie
A traditional herding dog, Border Collies still try to herd everything—cats, children, other dogs, etc.
While doing this, they will make yipping noises—a type of short bark.
It's not surprising to see these intelligent and energetic dogs on the list of quiet dog breeds.
These canines are very smart and need to stay busy.
Not only do they need to be physically active, but they need to be mentally active.
If they don’t have “jobs” to perform, they can become destructive and loud.
6. Clumber Spaniel
Quite a rare breed, the Clumber Spaniel still has a lot of great characteristics.
One of these is the fact that it hardly ever barks. They will alert you to unusual activity, but they won’t participate in rowdy or nuisance barking.
With the droopy hound dog looking perfect, they have a calm, quiet demeanor to match. In fact, they are downright lazy.
They still like to play fetch and take walks, but they cannot sustain jogging or running due to hip structure.
Large Quiet Dogs
(over 60 pounds)
7. Black Russian Terrier
Not a typical tiny terrier, these Black Russian Terriers can reach 145 pounds.
Bred as guard dogs, these confident canines don’t need to make a lot of noise to make their presence known.
Like a typical guard breed, they are aloof with strangers and can be that way with other dogs.
They do not like younger, energetic children.
“Blackies” are independent, but they need constant human companionship to keep from becoming loud or aggressive.
8. Bouvier des Flanders
These dogs are strong and large. Bouvier des Flanders are intimidating to anyone who sees them.
They may even bark when strangers approach. Other than that, they are mellow, friendly, and gentle.
To make excellent family dogs, they need to learn manners from an early age as they can easily hurt small children on accident.
Although they are large, their quiet, calm demeanor means they make great house dogs.
9. Bergamasco
This is the unusual-looking dog that many people describe as looking like a mop.
They have long, dread-locked hair (unless it's clipped like in the photo above).
While he may look like a handful, a Bergamasco is mannerly and one of the most quiet dogs.
With that said, he is a guard dog breed and will sound an alarm when necessary.
To avoid your pet from becoming physically confrontational, make sure it undergoes obedience, socialization, and pack leader training from an early age.
10. Neapolitan Mastiff
Looks can be deceiving with this 200-pound lap dog.
Sure, its droopy hound dog look does hint at the calm, loving baby inside.
Still, a Neapolitan Mastiff would strike fear into the heart of any would-be intruder.
While this canine is one of the most quiet dogs, they will not hesitate to put a stranger in their place with loud, powerful barks.
While you may not hear “Neos” barking sounds very often, you will hear snorting, grunting, and flatulence quite often.
11. Shiba Inu
While this four-legged family member does not bark much, a Shiba Inu will growl.
Known to be possessive, they do not do well around kids and other pets. They like to keep their toys, beds, and food well away from any other living thing.
With that said, they will not participate in nuisance barking.
These independent, territorial animals need a pack leader trainer and socialization starting from a young age.
Quietest Dog Breeds for Apartments: FAQs
Which dog breed is the quietest?
The quietest dog breeds include the Bulldog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Bernese Mountain Dog, French Bulldog, Borzoi, Basenji, and Scottish Deerhound.
What is the best dog to have in an apartment?
Poodles, Pugs, and Shih Tzus are among the best dogs to have in an apartment. For other great choices, check out the complete list above.
What dog breeds are not allowed in apartments?
Each apartment will have its own rules.
That said, the breeds that apartments are most likely to ban include Pit Bull Terriers, German Shepherds, Cane Corsos, Staffordshire Terriers, Rottweilers, Mastiffs, Great Danes, and Akitas.
Which dog breed is the most laid-back?
The Bernese Mountain Dog is the most laid-back.
Other laid-back breeds include Chinese Crested dogs, French bulldogs, Clumber Spaniels, Chihuahuas, Bullmastiffs, and Bulldogs.
What is the calmest dog?
Some of the calmest dogs include the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Irish Setter, St. Bernard, Irish Wolfhound, Greyhound, Pekingese, and Scottish Deerhound.
Most Quiet Dog Breeds: Before You Go…
Among all the quietest dog breeds mentioned in our list, it's vital to know that even the most silent ones can have barking tendencies.
And this is a result of several factors, such as illnesses, genetics, personality, and life-threatening scenarios.
Another important thing to remember is to prepare and equip yourself as a pet owner.
Whether dogs are innately quiet or not, the general rule of thumb is to give them the time, love, and commitment they need to make the most of their lives.
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