Dogs aren’t usually known to be quiet and reserved. In fact, many people expect quite the opposite. But some people are wary of getting a pet that is capable of causing such a ruckus. So much so that these people have turned to cats for their companions instead. We wanted to show that there are options out there for people that want a quieter pet so that they wouldn’t miss out on the wonderful joy that is dog ownership. So for all you cat people, here is a list of dogs that don’t bark.
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Basenji
What better place to start this list than with the Basenji, with the befitting nickname of ‘Africa’s barkless dog’? Originally bred as hunting dogs, Basenjis are often compared to cats due to their mild temperament and self cleaning habits. Though on the smaller side, they stand tall with confidence and poise. They are most easily recognized by their short brown coat and curly tail. While it’s true they don’t bark, they still let out a sound similar to a yodel. If someone is looking for a barkless dog, why not start with a dog with barkless literally in it’s name?
Shiba Inu
Shibas have many similarities with the Basenji, also bred as hunting dogs for small game. Also alike is their stature, both being small but stout and having short curly tails. Shibas have an outer coat and inner coat of fur longer than the Basenji. They don’t bark in the way some other dogs do, letting out low gruff growls instead. Some Shibas do however possess an ability to ‘scream’, which could be considered quite alarming to someone looking for a quiet dog. Just look up ‘Shiba scream’ to get an understanding of what we’re talking about.
French Bulldog
Frenchies are most recognizable for their large ears that stick up straight. They have bodies similar to their English cousins, with short legs but broad shoulders. They also share the famous bulldog face wrinkles and short snouts, with just a bit of underbite. These toys dogs were made for play, not work. Frenchies make great family pets and are great with children. Though they make decent alert dogs, they are not prone to much barking.
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Whippet
Whippets share similar features to the Greyhound, albeit with a bit smaller bodies. They share the Greyhounds athleticism as well, being quick and all business when it comes to chasing. They are good for an intense exercise session, then are more relaxed with their owners afterwards. Owners looking for a low maintenance dog may consider the whippet. Their calm nature and unwillingness to bark much may be just what you’re looking for.
Shar-Pei
The Shar-Pei hails from China, where it was used by many as a guard or security dog. The breed is known for its deep wrinkly face, but it’s sturdy and muscular body gives it a menacing look. This regal dog is a great guard dog and loyal to its family, but remains quite aloof with strangers. With appropriate training this breed will make a fine loyal companion.
Borzoi
The Borzoi is a Russian hunting dog of sighthound type. They were used extensively in wolf hunting due to their speed and graceful running. The bodies are built similar to the Greyhound but with a thicker build much needed to be tough enough to match with their wolf counterparts. The pursuit instinct is strong in this breed, so they would benefit from good training and lots of running room. Though fierce and persistent hunters, this breed has a calm and mild temperament when it comes to their owners that may be seeking a more mellow and agreeable pooch.
Akita
Akitas are large hefty dogs hailing out of Japan. They are the much larger cousin of the Shiba Inu, but with the same stubborn temperament. They boast the same double coat as the Shiba, which helped them for hunting in the cold Japanese mountains. This breed was originally used in the hunt for bears, which should tell you their toughness and hunting abilities. Great guard dogs, they will protect their family with great intensity. Akitas are quiet and reserved with strangers, but can be loveable goofy dogs around their loved ones.
English Bulldog
These lovable goofs bring a smile to many faces with their big heads full of wrinkles and short legs but bulky stature. Their distinctive gait will let you know what kind of dog they are, but their playfulness and silly demeanor will keep their owners always entertained. The English Bulldog is great at adapting to any lifestyle, but like all dogs need regular exercise and hygiene care. Their short snouts and wrinkles require extra cleaning, because dirt is easily caught inside. Bulldogs can weigh up to 50 bulky pounds, but that won’t stop them from getting comfy on your lap.
Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian is a stunning large dog that makes for an excellent hunting partner as well as a fantastic guard dog. These Ridgebacks are powerful and athletic runners, and were used for their skill at tracking larger animals. Independent and stubborn, these pups need training early on to keep them in check. With great training the Rhodesian can make a fair family pet and guard dog.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier has a remarkably mild temperament for a dog of its size and carries itself with grace and dignity. Making great show dogs, the Cavalier mixes its beautiful silky and smooth coat with curly ears which makes for adorable looks with surprising quickness and agility. The sweet mellow attitude of this breed makes a great choice for someone looking for a small toy breed without all the chatter.
We hope you enjoyed this list of dogs that don’t bark. Perhaps you are living in an apartment and are unable to have a loud animal keeping all the neighbors up, or are just looking for a quiet companion that won’t wake you up at night. Either way we hope that we helped inform you about some of the quiet dog breeds that are out there. Even quiet pups need a loving family!
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