So, you're dreaming of a four-legged companion, but the idea of constant barking gives you anxiety? Or maybe your neighbors are the kind who call the landlord if your dog so much as sighs loudly. Either way, I get it—not everyone wants a pup that doubles as a car alarm.
Lucky for you (and your eardrums), plenty of dog breeds are known for keeping it on the down-low. I’ve personally lived with a few of these mellow mutts, and let me tell you—life is a whole lot quieter when your dog doesn’t have opinions about every leaf blowing across the yard. Let’s dig into the 25 quietest dog breeds that won’t turn your peaceful home into a barking battleground.
Why Choose a Quiet Dog?
Ever been jolted awake at 3 a.m. by a dog barking at… literally nothing? Yeah, hard pass. Whether you live in an apartment, have small kids, work from home (shoutout to all the Zoom warriors 🧑💻), or just really value your peace, a quiet dog can be a total game-changer.
Bonus? Quiet dogs tend to be more chill overall—which is exactly the vibe we’re going for here. Ready to meet your future calm companion?
1. Basenji
The original quiet breed.
- Fun fact: Basenjis don’t bark. No joke.
- Instead, they make this bizarre but adorable yodeling sound called a "baroo."
- They’re smart, cat-like, and independent—but don’t expect them to follow every command like a robot.
IMO, if you want a quiet dog with quirky personality points, Basenji’s your go-to.
2. Greyhound
Yes, the racer. But don’t let the athletic build fool you.
- These dogs are couch potatoes once they’re done zooming.
- They rarely bark, and they’ll spend 90% of the day napping.
- Perfect for apartment life (surprising, right?).
3. Whippet
Basically a smaller, slightly more energetic Greyhound.
- They’re quiet, affectionate, and love cuddles.
- Not big on barking unless something really weird is happening.
Whippets are the “I’ll nap with you, but also beat you in a sprint” kind of dog. Respect.
4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Don’t let the royal name intimidate you—this breed is basically a love sponge.
- Gentle, quiet, and oh-so-sweet.
- Not fans of barking or drama.
- They thrive on companionship and Netflix marathons.
And yes, they will give you those big, soulful eyes that guilt you into giving them snacks.
5. Shiba Inu
Okay, hear me out.
- They’re not totally silent, but they rarely bark without reason.
- When they do? It’s usually the legendary “Shiba scream.” (Google it. It’s a thing.)
- Independent and clean—basically a dog that thinks it’s better than you.
So, great option if you’re cool with a little sass minus the noise.
6. Newfoundland
Think: giant teddy bear that barely makes a peep.
- Big? Yes.
- Loud? Nope.
- Known for being calm, sweet, and drooly (just FYI 😂).
Perfect for those who want a quiet giant with a gentle soul.
7. Bernese Mountain Dog
Fluffy, lovable, and surprisingly quiet.
- They’re laid-back and polite.
- Won’t bark unless it’s necessary (like someone stealing your Amazon package).
- Just don’t expect them to live forever—they have shorter lifespans, sadly. :/
8. Great Dane
Wait, what? A Great Dane is quiet?
- Yep. These gentle giants are known as the “Apollo of Dogs” for a reason.
- They’re elegant, affectionate, and chill AF.
- Barking? Only if they have a solid reason.
Fair warning: Their tail is a weapon. Protect your coffee table.
9. French Bulldog
Tiny, stylish, and basically too cool to bark.
- They’ll snort, grunt, and wheeze—but full-on barking? Rare.
- Excellent for apartment dwellers.
- They’re kind of like the sarcastic roommate who always has a resting annoyed face.
10. Bulldog (English)
Let’s be real—they barely move, let alone bark.
- Total couch surfer vibes.
- Sweet, loyal, and snore louder than they bark.
- Low maintenance (except for those adorable wrinkles that need cleaning).
11. Irish Setter
Beautiful, friendly, and surprisingly reserved.
- These red-coated beauties are more into playtime than making noise.
- Great for families who want a calm yet active buddy.
- They do shed a bit, so get ready for some fur on the couch.
12. Borzoi
Elegant and quiet like a Victorian lady.
- Barely makes a sound.
- Sweet-tempered and graceful.
- Needs space to run, but otherwise super chill.
You’ll feel fancy just owning one.
13. Scottish Deerhound
Tall, shaggy, and quiet as a ghost.
- Friendly but not in-your-face.
- Doesn’t bark unless there’s an actual emergency.
- Needs a yard or regular walks to stay sane.
14. Saluki
Ancient, noble, and reserved.
- These dogs are low-key introverts.
- Independent but loyal.
- Rarely bark—unless they’re trying to get your attention.
Basically, if they bark, listen up.
15. Akita
Strong, stoic, and not chatty at all.
- Protective and loyal, but not yappy.
- Can be aloof with strangers.
- Needs early socialization—this breed isn’t for total beginners.
But if you want a quiet guard dog, Akita fits the bill.
16. Chinese Shar-Pei
The dog with the wrinkles and the attitude.
- Very low-key and calm.
- Rarely barks unless they really have to.
- Fiercely loyal to their people.
They also look permanently unimpressed, which is… kinda awesome.
17. Chow Chow
Another independent fluffball.
- Not a fan of barking.
- Can be stubborn (don’t expect them to fetch your slippers).
- But hey, quiet loyalty has its perks.
18. Basset Hound
That droopy face says it all.
- Calm, slow-moving, and mellow.
- Might give a howl here and there, but day-to-day? Pretty silent.
- Great for lazy weekends and long naps.
19. Tibetan Mastiff
Massive. Majestic. Mysterious.
- Not your average dog, but quiet most of the time.
- Extremely protective and reserved.
- Barking is usually reserved for serious threats.
Definitely not for beginners, but they’re loyal to the core.
20. Japanese Chin
Tiny and elegant.
- Doesn’t bark much, even when excited.
- Loves lounging around like royalty.
- Basically a living, breathing throw pillow—just cuter.
21. Labrador Retriever
Okay, hear me out.
- Labs can be barky as puppies, but with proper training, they mellow out.
- Adult Labs are chill, affectionate, and rarely bark unless excited.
- Ideal for active families.
Training is key here, so don’t slack off early on.
22. Pug
The little dog with a big heart (and a hilarious snore).
- Minimal barking.
- Snorts and snores? Plenty.
- Great for apartment life and constant giggles.
If you like comedy in dog form, this is it.
23. Clumber Spaniel
Ever heard of them? Probably not—and that’s kinda the point.
- Super chill and laid-back.
- Rarely barks unless needed.
- Big, goofy, and super affectionate.
24. Sloughi
Another sleek, quiet sighthound.
- These Moroccan beauties are quiet and reserved.
- Athletic but couch-loving.
- Very loyal to their humans.
Bonus: They look like royalty.
25. Italian Greyhound
Tiny, sensitive, and sweet.
- They’re basically warm, wiggly blankets.
- Hardly bark, unless startled.
- Great lap dogs who just want to vibe.
But seriously, watch your step—they’re fragile little beans.
Final Thoughts: Quiet Dogs = Peaceful Homes
Not every dog wants to voice their opinion 24/7 (looking at you, Beagles 😬). If noise isn’t your jam, one of these quiet legends might be the perfect addition to your life.
Just remember—even the quietest dogs need attention, love, and exercise. No bark doesn’t mean no effort. But if you’re craving calm, cuddly, and chill vibes, these breeds deliver.
So, which one caught your eye? Got your heart set on a nap-loving Greyhound? Or maybe a wrinkle-faced Shar-Pei? Whatever your pick, one thing’s for sure: your ears will thank you. 😉
P.S. Got a quiet dog of your own? Drop your stories—I love hearing how these mellow pups make life better. 🐾
