Shelter Dog Meal Donation Count:

Learn More

10 Most Quiet Dog Breeds For Peaceful Households

By: Arlene Divina
Arlene Divina, one of the content writers at IHD, loves going on adventures with her adorable fur baby. She now creates informative content for pet parents. Read more
| July 30, 2024

For those who prefer a serene and peaceful household, choosing a quiet dog breed can make a significant difference. Quiet dog breeds are typically less vocal and are known for their calm and gentle nature. These breeds are perfect for apartment living, families with young children, or anyone who appreciates a quieter environment. While all dogs can bark occasionally, these breeds are generally less likely to make excessive noise. Here are the 10 most quiet dog breeds for peaceful households, listed in descending order from the least quiet to the most silent.

10. Great Dane

Great Danes are known as gentle giants due to their large size and calm demeanor. Despite their imposing presence, Great Danes are generally quiet dogs that rarely bark without reason. They are affectionate and loyal companions known for their gentle nature. Great Danes are protective of their families but do not usually display aggression. They are more likely to alert their owners with a bark if something seems amiss but are not prone to excessive vocalization. Their quiet and laid-back nature makes them excellent pets for those seeking a peaceful household with a large, loving dog.

9. Shiba Inu

Shiba Inus are a small, agile breed known for their fox-like appearance and independent personality. While they can be vocal, they are not known for excessive barking. Shibas are more likely to communicate through unique sounds known as the “Shiba scream,” a vocalization they use when excited or distressed. Despite this, they are generally quiet dogs that do not bark unnecessarily. Shiba Inus are clean and well-mannered, making them excellent pets for those who appreciate a quiet and low-maintenance companion. Their independent nature means they may not always seek attention, but they are loyal and affectionate with their families.

8. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. These small, elegant dogs are generally quiet and well-mannered, making them excellent companions for those who appreciate a peaceful home environment. Cavaliers are friendly and sociable, getting along well with other pets and people. They are not known for excessive barking and are usually content to observe their surroundings quietly. While they may bark to alert their owners of visitors or unusual sounds, they are not prone to persistent or loud barking. Their calm and loving nature makes them ideal pets for families and individuals.

7. Basenji

The Basenji is often referred to as the “barkless dog” because it does not bark in the traditional sense. Instead, Basenjis make a unique sound known as a “baroo,” a sort of yodel or howl. This breed is generally quiet and reserved, making them ideal for those seeking a peaceful household. Basenjis are intelligent and curious dogs known for their clean and cat-like behaviors. They are not prone to excessive vocalization and are often content to communicate with their owners through body language and soft sounds. Basenjis are independent and can be aloof with strangers, but they are loyal and affectionate with their families.

6. Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, gentle dogs known for their calm and affectionate nature. They are generally quiet and do not bark excessively, making them ideal for peaceful households. Bernese Mountain Dogs are friendly and social, often forming strong bonds with their families. They are good with children and other pets, making them excellent family companions. While they may bark to alert their owners of visitors or unusual occurrences, they are not known for persistent or loud barking. Their gentle and easygoing nature makes them a wonderful addition to any home looking for a quiet and loving pet.

5. Greyhound

Greyhounds are known for their sleek and athletic build, as well as their calm and gentle nature. Despite their racing background, Greyhounds are often called “couch potatoes” because of their love for lounging. They are generally quiet dogs that rarely bark without reason. Greyhounds are affectionate and gentle with their families, making them excellent pets for those seeking a peaceful home environment. They are good with children and other pets, and their quiet demeanor makes them well-suited for apartment living. Greyhounds are easygoing and adaptable, making them a great choice for families and individuals.

4. Bullmastiff

Bullmastiffs are large, powerful dogs known for their protective instincts and calm demeanor. They are generally quiet and do not bark excessively, making them ideal for peaceful households. Bullmastiffs are loyal and protective of their families, often acting as natural guardians. They are gentle and affectionate with children and other pets, making them excellent family companions. While they may bark to alert their owners of potential threats, they are not prone to persistent or loud barking. Their calm and dignified nature makes them a wonderful addition to any home looking for a quiet and loyal pet.

3. Newfoundland

Newfoundlands are large, gentle dogs known for their calm and patient nature. They are generally quiet and do not bark excessively, making them ideal for peaceful households. Newfoundlands are friendly and affectionate with their families, often forming strong bonds with children. They are known for their gentle and patient demeanor, making them excellent family companions. While they may bark to alert their owners of visitors or unusual occurrences, they are not known for persistent or loud barking. Newfoundlands are loyal and protective, making them a wonderful addition to any home looking for a quiet and loving pet.

2. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are small, affectionate dogs known for their friendly and gentle nature. They are generally quiet and well-mannered, making them excellent companions for those seeking a peaceful home environment. Shih Tzus are friendly and sociable, getting along well with other pets and people. They are not known for excessive barking and are usually content to observe their surroundings quietly. While they may bark to alert their owners of visitors or unusual sounds, they are not prone to persistent or loud barking. Their calm and loving nature makes them ideal pets for families and individuals.

1. Basset Hound

Basset Hounds are known for their long ears, droopy eyes, and calm demeanor. These dogs are generally quiet and do not bark excessively, making them ideal for peaceful households. Basset Hounds are friendly and gentle with their families, often forming strong bonds with children and other pets. They are known for their laid-back and easygoing nature, making them excellent family companions. While they may bark to alert their owners of visitors or unusual occurrences, they are not known for persistent or loud barking. Basset Hounds are loyal and affectionate, making them a wonderful addition to any home looking for a quiet and loving pet.

In conclusion, these ten dog breeds are known for their quiet and calm nature, making them ideal companions for peaceful households. Whether you’re looking for a large, gentle giant or a small, affectionate lap dog, these breeds offer a range of options to suit different living situations and preferences. Their minimal barking and gentle demeanor make them excellent choices for those who value a serene and tranquil home environment. By providing proper care, training, and socialization, these quiet dogs can bring immense joy and companionship to their owners, creating a harmonious and peaceful living space.