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20 Large Dog Breeds That Don’t Bark Much: Your Guide to Peaceful Pup Companionship [2024] 🐶
Tired of the incessant barking that echoes through your home? You’re not alone! We hear it all the time from our customers: “I love big dogs, but I can’t handle a four-legged alarm system!” But what if we told you there are large breeds known for their remarkably calm nature and infrequent barking?
We’ve been on the hunt for the quietest places on earth, and in our search, we’ve uncovered a secret world of gentle giants. 🐶 Our team of audio engineers and reviewers has compiled this comprehensive guide to 20 large dog breeds that are surprisingly quiet. We’ll give you the lowdown on each breed’s bark tendencies, their personality quirks, and everything you need to know to make an informed decision for your peaceful home.
Quick Answer
- You can find large, quiet dog breeds that fit your lifestyle
- Breeds known for their gentleness and calm demeanors are ideal for those who prefer peace and quiet.
- Consider factors like exercise needs, personality, training needs, and grooming when making your decision.
👉 Shop for quiet dog breed supplies:
- Large Dog Beds: Amazon | Chewy | Petco
- Large Dog Harnesses: Amazon | Chewy | Petco
- Large Dog Collars: Amazon | Chewy | Petco
Table of Contents
- Quick Tips and Facts
- The Origins of Quiet Dog Breeds
- Top 20 Quiet Dog Breeds: A Comprehensive Guide
- 1. Basset Hound
- 2. Bulldog
- 3. Great Dane
- 4. Greyhound
- 5. Mastiff
- 6. Newfoundland
- 7. Saint Bernard
- 8. Bernese Mountain Dog
- 9. Bloodhound
- 10. Borzoi
- 11. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- 12. English Bulldog
- 13. French Bulldog
- 14. Irish Wolfhound
- 15. Leonberger
- 16. Scottish Deerhound
- 17. Shiba Inu
- 18. Whippet
- 19. Xoloitzcuintli
- 20. Pug
- Understanding Dog Barking: Why Do Dogs Bark?
- Training Your Dog to Be Quiet: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Quiet Dog Breeds: The Pros and Cons
- Finding the Right Quiet Dog Breed for You
- Conclusion
- Recommended Links
- FAQ
- Reference Links
Quick Tips and Facts
Looking for a dog that won’t turn your home into a concert hall? 🎶 You’ve come to the right place! Contrary to popular belief, not all dogs are loud barkers. 🐶 Some breeds are naturally quieter, making them perfect for apartment living or for owners who value peace and tranquility. But remember, even the quietest breeds aren’t completely silent. Let’s delve into the world of large, quiet dog breeds.
Did you know? The Basenji, nicknamed the “barkless dog”, actually does vocalize – but instead of a bark, it makes a unique yodeling noise! You can learn all about the Basenji and other quiet breeds in our article, The 15 Quietest & Lowest-Shedding Dog Breeds 2024 🐶🐾 – https://www.quietest.org/dogs-that-dont-bark-or-shed/
The Origins of Quiet Dog Breeds
Believe it or not, a dog’s tendency to bark is often ingrained in their DNA. Centuries ago, many dog breeds were bred for specific jobs. Some breeds, like herding dogs, were encouraged to bark as a way to control livestock. Others, like guard dogs, were selectively bred for their booming barks, meant to deter intruders. However, some breeds were bred for tasks that required silence.
For example, the Basenji, originating from Central Africa, was used for hunting small game. Their near-silent nature was essential for stalking prey. Similarly, the Borzoi, a Russian breed, was bred to hunt wolves. Their silent pursuit was crucial for ambushing their prey.
Interesting fact: The Basenji’s vocal cords are actually shaped differently than other dogs, making it physically difficult for them to bark in the traditional sense.
Top 20 Quiet Dog Breeds: A Comprehensive Guide
Ready to meet some remarkably quiet canine companions? Let’s get acquainted!
1. Basset Hound
- Known For: Their drooping ears, soulful eyes, and laid-back personality
- Barking Style: Relatively quiet breed, though they may howl occasionally.
Known for their droopy ears and melancholy expressions, the Basset Hound is surprisingly chill. Originally bred for hunting in packs, they do enjoy the company of other dogs.
👉 Shop Basset Hound Supplies: Amazon
2. Bulldog
- Known For: Their wrinkled faces and muscular builds
- Barking Style: Generally quiet, but may bark if feeling territorial.
Bulldogs are the epitome of “chill.” This breed is content with lounging around and enjoying some quality cuddle time.
👉 Shop Bulldog Supplies: Amazon
3. Great Dane
- Known For: Their towering height and gentle nature
- Barking Style: Surprisingly quiet for their size, but may bark if they sense danger.
Don’t be intimidated by their imposing stature; Great Danes are gentle giants. They’re generally calm and reserved, saving their barks for when it really matters.
👉 Shop Great Dane Supplies: Amazon
4. Greyhound
- Known For: Their incredible speed and independent nature
- Barking Style: Known for being quiet and gentle.
Despite their racing background, Greyhounds are incredibly laid-back and quiet companions. They’re content with napping and relaxing at home.
👉 Shop Greyhound Supplies: Amazon
5. Mastiff
- Known For: Their massive size and protective instincts
- Barking Style: Deep, booming bark that they use sparingly
Mastiffs are gentle giants that typically only bark when they perceive a genuine threat.
👉 Shop Mastiff Supplies: Amazon
6. Newfoundland
- Known For: Their sweet temperament and love of water
- Barking Style: Known for their “woo-woo” sound rather than a traditional bark
Newfoundlands are renowned for their gentle nature and love of children. They’re not big barkers, often opting for a quieter “woo-woo” sound to get your attention.
👉 Shop Newfoundland Supplies: Amazon
7. Saint Bernard
- Known For: Their heroic history as rescue dogs
- Barking Style: Generally quiet and well-mannered, but may bark if they sense danger.
Famous for their life-saving skills in the Swiss Alps, Saint Bernards are calm, patient, and remarkably quiet.
👉 Shop Saint Bernard Supplies: Amazon
8. Bernese Mountain Dog
- **Known For: ** Their stunning tri-colored coats and gentle spirits
- Barking Style: Typically quiet but may bark if excited or alarmed.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are loyal and affectionate companions. They’re not overly vocal, but their deep bark can be quite impressive!
👉 Shop Bernese Mountain Dog Supplies: Amazon
9. Bloodhound
- Known For: Their incredible sense of smell
- Barking Style: “Baying” rather than a traditional bark, often used when tracking scents.
Bloodhounds are famous for their powerful noses but are surprisingly quiet companions. Their deep, resonant bay is usually only heard during tracking activities.
👉 Shop Bloodhound Supplies: Amazon
10. Borzoi
- Known For: Their elegant appearance and independent streak
- Barking Style: Known to be very quiet
Often referred to as the “Russian Wolfhound”, Borzois are dignified and reserved. They rarely bark, preferring to communicate through gentle nudges or soulful gazes.
👉 Shop Borzoi Supplies: Amazon
11. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Known For: Their gentle and affectionate personalities
- Barking Style: Generally quiet, but may bark to alert their owners.
These sweet-natured dogs are incredibly friendly and eager to please, making them wonderful companions for families. They bark infrequently and are easily trained to be quiet.
👉 Shop Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Supplies: Amazon
12. English Bulldog
- Known For: Their short muzzles and wrinkled faces
- Barking Style: Deep, gruff bark used sparingly.
English Bulldogs are known for their gentle and patient nature. Despite their tough appearance, they are incredibly loving and are perfectly content to snooze the day away.
👉 Shop English Bulldog Supplies: Amazon
13. French Bulldog
- **Known For: ** Their bat-like ears and playful personalities
- Barking Style: Not big barkers, but may bark when excited or playful.
French Bulldogs have surged in popularity and for good reason! These playful and adaptable dogs are known for their quiet nature, making them well-suited to apartment living.
👉 Shop French Bulldog Supplies: Amazon
14. Irish Wolfhound
- Known For: Their impressive size and gentle nature
- Barking Style: Deep, resonant bark, but they are not known for excessive barking
Known as one of the tallest dog breeds, the Irish Wolfhound is a gentle giant with a heart of gold. They’re not particularly vocal, preferring a peaceful coexistence with their families..
👉 Shop Irish Wolfhound Supplies: Amazon
15. Leonberger
- Known For: Their lion-like appearance and calm demeanor
- Barking Style: They have a bark, but they use it selectively.
Leonbergers are renowned for their calm and loyal personalities. They’re devoted family dogs that form strong bonds with their humans.
👉 Shop Leonberger Supplies: Amazon
16. Scottish Deerhound
- Known For: Their dignified demeanor and love of running
- Barking Style: Known for being quiet and dignified
With their aristocratic air, Scottish Deerhounds are gentle souls that crave human companionship. They’re typically quiet and reserved, making them great companions for those who prefer a sense of tranquility at home.
👉 Shop Scottish Deerhound Supplies: Amazon
17. Shiba Inu
- Known For: Their fox-like appearance and independent spirit
- Barking Style: Known for their “Shiba scream,” a high-pitched sound they make when excited or upset
Shiba Inus are known for their cleanliness, independence, and cat-like personalities. While they do have a unique vocalization known as the “Shiba scream,” they are not known for being excessive barkers.
👉 Shop Shiba Inu Supplies: Amazon
18. Whippet
- Known For: Their sleek build and love of speed
- Barking Style: Relatively quiet dogs that prefer to relax at home
Whippets are the ultimate combination of athleticism and tranquility. They may enjoy a good sprint outdoors, but they’re also perfectly content to snuggle up on the couch.
👉 Shop Whippet Supplies: Amazon
19. Xoloitzcuintli
- Known For: Their hairless bodies and ancient lineage
- Barking Style: Known for being calm and quiet
The Xoloitzcuintli, also known as the Mexican Hairless Dog, is an ancient and primitive breed. They’re known for their calmness and loyalty.
👉 Shop Xoloitzcuintli Supplies: Amazon
20. Pug
- Known For: Their wrinkly faces and charming personalities
- Barking Style: Can be prone to snoring!
Pugs are the ultimate goofballs of the dog world. They’re known for their playful antics and their even-tempered nature.
👉 Shop Pug Supplies: Amazon
Understanding Dog Barking: Why Do Dogs Bark?
Barking is a natural form of communication for dogs. They bark for various reasons, including:
- Alerting their owners to potential danger
- Expressing excitement or playfulness
- Seeking attention
- Responding to other barking dogs
- Suffering from separation anxiety or boredom
- Experiencing pain or discomfort
Training Your Dog to Be Quiet: A Step-by-Step Guide
While some breeds are naturally predisposed to quietness, every dog can benefit from training. Here are some tips to encourage quieter behavior:
- Identify the triggers: Pay attention to what causes your dog to bark. Is it the doorbell, passing cars, or separation anxiety? Once you know the triggers, you can address them more effectively.
- Don’t yell: Yelling at your dog to be quiet often reinforces their barking as they think you’re joining in!
- Reward quiet behavior: When your dog is quiet, acknowledge it with positive reinforcement, such as treats, praise, or petting.
- Provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation: A tired dog is a happy (and often quieter) dog! Make sure your dog gets enough physical activity and mental engagement to prevent boredom.
- Consider professional training: If you’re struggling to curb excessive barking, consult with a certified dog trainer or behaviorist. They can provide personalized guidance and develop a tailored training plan.
Quiet Dog Breeds: The Pros and Cons
Like all dog breeds, quiet breeds have their advantages and disadvantages.
Pros:
- Peace and tranquility: If you’re seeking a peaceful home environment, a quiet breed may be a perfect match.
- Apartment living: Quiet dogs are often well-suited to apartment living, as their infrequent barking is less likely to disturb neighbors.
- Reduced stress: The absence of constant barking can contribute to a calmer and less stressful atmosphere for both you and your furry friend.
Cons:
- May not alert you to intruders: If you’re looking for a watchdog, a quiet breed may not be the best choice, as they might not bark to alert you to strangers.
- Training challenges: While generally eager to please, some quiet breeds, particularly those known for their independence, can be more challenging to train.
Finding the Right Quiet Dog Breed for You
Choosing the right dog breed is a significant decision. When considering any dog breed but especially large dog breeds, consider factors such as:
- Lifestyle: Are you an active individual or couple or do you prefer a more laid-back lifestyle? Do you have a yard, or do you live in an apartment?
- Living situation: Do you live on a busy street or in a quiet neighborhood? Do you have children or other pets?
- Grooming needs: Are you prepared to handle the grooming requirements of a particular breed, such as regular brushing or occasional professional grooming?
- Time commitment: Do you have ample time to dedicate to training, socialization, and providing your dog with daily exercise and interaction?
Remember, adopting a dog is a long-term commitment.
Conclusion
Finding the right dog breed is like finding a perfect pair of headphones. You want the perfect blend of comfort, performance, and a bit of style. And just like headphones, some dogs come with a “barking” factor that can be more distracting than delightful!
Ultimately, the key to finding a quiet dog is understanding your lifestyle, preferences, and the breed’s inherent traits.
Do your research: Visit shelters, attend adoption events, and consider rescue organizations – you never know what quiet companion you’ll discover!
Recommended Links
👉 Shop quiet dog breed supplies:
- Basset Hound: Amazon | Chewy | Petco
- Bulldog: Amazon | Chewy | Petco
- Great Dane: Amazon | Chewy | Petco
- Greyhound: Amazon | Chewy | Petco
- Mastiff: Amazon | Chewy | Petco
- Newfoundland: Amazon | Chewy | Petco
- Saint Bernard: Amazon | Chewy | Petco
- Bernese Mountain Dog: Amazon | Chewy | Petco
- Bloodhound: Amazon | Chewy | Petco
- Borzoi: Amazon | Chewy | Petco
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Amazon | Chewy | Petco
- English Bulldog: Amazon | Chewy | Petco
- French Bulldog: Amazon | Chewy | Petco
- Irish Wolfhound: Amazon | Chewy | Petco
- Leonberger: Amazon | Chewy | Petco
- Scottish Deerhound: Amazon | Chewy | Petco
- Shiba Inu: Amazon | Chewy | Petco
- Whippet: Amazon | Chewy | Petco
- Xoloitzcuintli: Amazon | Chewy | Petco
- Pug: Amazon | Chewy | Petco
Recommended Reading:
- The Dog Whisperer: A Practical Guide to Understanding and Communicating with Your Dog: Amazon
- The Art of Raising a Puppy: Amazon
- The New Complete Guide to Dog Training: Amazon
- The Dog Encyclopedia: Amazon
FAQ
What large dog breed doesn’t bark?
While no dog is completely silent, certain breeds are known for being remarkably quiet. The Great Dane, the Irish Wolfhound, and the Newfoundland are all large breeds that generally don’t have a tendency to bark excessively. However, it’s essential to remember that every dog is an individual, and there will always be exceptions.
What are some factors that influence a dog’s barking habits?
Several factors contribute to a dog’s barking behavior:
- Genetics: Certain breeds are predisposed to barking more than others.
- Training: Proper training can help minimize excessive barking.
- Environment: A dog’s surroundings and experiences can influence their barking tendencies.
- Individual personality: Some dogs are simply more vocal than others.
Read more about “25 Quiet Dog Breeds That Won’t Drive You Crazy … 🤫”
What is the calmest large dog?
The Newfoundland is often described as a calm and gentle giant. They’re known for their affectionate nature and their love of cuddling. Other calm large breeds include the Great Dane, the Bernese Mountain Dog, and the Irish Wolfhound.
Read more about “The 15 Quietest & Lowest-Shedding Dog Breeds … 🤫🐶”
What is the most non barking dog?
The Basenji is often referred to as the “barkless dog.” While they do vocalize, it’s not a traditional bark, but rather a yodeling sound.
Is there a breed of dog that Cannot bark?
No, there is no dog breed that is completely incapable of barking. Barking is a natural and instinctual behavior for dogs. However, some breeds, like the Basenji, have a significantly reduced tendency to bark, making them an excellent option for those seeking quieter companionship.
Can you tell me more about the Basenji’s “barkless” quirk?
The Basenji’s unique vocalization is a result of its unusually shaped vocal cords. This makes it physically difficult for them to produce a traditional bark. Instead, they make a variety of sounds, like yodeling, howls, and even a distinct “singing” sound.
Reference Links
- Basenji: American Kennel Club
- Bulldog: American Kennel Club
- Great Dane: American Kennel Club
- Greyhound: American Kennel Club
- Mastiff: American Kennel Club
- Newfoundland: American Kennel Club
- Saint Bernard: American Kennel Club
- Bernese Mountain Dog: American Kennel Club
- Bloodhound: American Kennel Club
- Borzoi: American Kennel Club
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: American Kennel Club
- English Bulldog: American Kennel Club
- French Bulldog: American Kennel Club
- Irish Wolfhound: American Kennel Club
- Leonberger: American Kennel Club
- Scottish Deerhound: American Kennel Club
- Shiba Inu: American Kennel Club
- Whippet: American Kennel Club
- Xoloitzcuintli: American Kennel Club
- Pug: American Kennel Club
Quiet Dog Breed Resources:
- 15 Quiet Dog Breeds That Rarely Bark – Good Housekeeping: Good Housekeeping
- Top Quiet Dog Breeds – WagWalking: WagWalking
- Large Dog Breeds That Are Mellow and Don’t Bark Much: – MonsterK9: [MonsterK9](https://www.monsterk9.com/blogs/large-dog-blog/7-mellow-dog-breeds-for-large-dog-lovers#:~:text=1.,the%20best%2