The Quietest Dog Breeds That Aren’t Likely to Bark

Key Points

• Quiet dog breeds are ideal for living in noise-sensitive environments like condos and co-op apartments.

• Breeds such as the Basenji, Shiba Inu, and Chow Chow are less prone to barking.

• The temperament and training of a dog significantly influence its tendency to bark.

Dog breeds with quieter temperaments are ideal companions, especially in noise-sensitive environments like condos and co-op apartments. While playful dogs that bark frequently can be endearing, opting for a calmer breed can help maintain a tranquil home atmosphere. Surprisingly, some large dogs such as the Saint Bernard are among the quietest. Selecting the right dog requires considering temperament and providing training to encourage them to bark at only appropriate moments. "Essentially, it is about developing a relationship with your dog so they are happy to comply with your requests," advises Andrea Arden , an expert dog trainer and author.

01 of 14

Akita

Akitas are quiet, fastidious dogs. The large, independent-thinking Akita is hardwired for protecting those in their pack, so they often need training to keep his intolerance of strangers in check, but this breed makes for a very loving and loyal addition to the family.

02 of 14

Australian Cattle Dog

Once you've established yourself as the pack leader, the Australian Cattle Dog is fiercely loyal. The calm demeanor of this dog is in line with its even-keeled temperament. This breed is very high energy and loves wide, open spaces to run off excess energy.

03 of 14

Basenji

Instead of a traditional bark, the Basenji makes a vocalization that sounds more like a yodel. This, at least in part, has to do with the anatomy of the breeds' voice boxes: In a Basenji, the voice box is narrower as well as more uniform in diameter than most all other dog breeds.

04 of 14

Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog is large in size, but friendly and calm in personality. While they may be imposing, they aren't threatening and would rather maintain an aloof distance from strangers rather than bark them away.

05 of 14

Borzoi

The Borzoi is a breed that's known for its beautiful coat and regal bearing. While they are known for their silence, they have strong hunting instincts and this means they require daily exercise.

06 of 14

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

If you're looking for a dog that's easy to train and is great with children, then the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an excellent choice. Their quiet, docile nature and small size make them ideal for anyone living in an apartment.

07 of 14

Chow Chow

Martha's favorite breed, the Chow Chow , is a dignified and serious-minded dog with origins as a guardian of ancient China. Their distinctive lion's-mane ruff around the head and shoulders even give them a fierce look but they are not likely to bark.

08 of 14

English Bulldog

The Bulldog is an easygoing breed that isn't one to bark. These dogs have a blocky build and furrowed brow that is distinctive; despite their gruff and tough exterior, they make loyal companions who are just as happy to sit in your lap.

09 of 14

Newfoundland

The Newfoundland , or Newfie, is famously gentle and their sweet temperament is the single most important characteristic of the breed. Because of this, they don't bark hardly at all; but when they do, it's a loud and thunderous call.

10 of 14

Saluki

Among the world's oldest breeds, the Saluki is a hunting hound that is gentle and independent. They make swift and agile athletes, and they love a good sprint. These dogs, if left alone at home without physical and mental exertion, can be destructive but seldom do they bark.

11 of 14

Saint Bernard

Saint Bernards are saintly in name and demeanor; in fact, they were originally bred to rescue people stuck in snowy mountains and get their name from Saint Bernard de Menthon, the patron saint of mountaineers and skiers. They are famously patient and make quiet, dignified watchdogs.

12 of 14

Scottish Deerhound

The Scottish Deerhound is among the tallest of dog breeds, but their imposing height is no match for their noble personality. They're not ones to bark; they're simply happy doing what Deerhounds were bred to do—run for the sheer joy of running.

13 of 14

Shiba Inu

Famously for cat lovers, the Shiba Inu 's demeanor tends to skew more feline than canine. And like cats, they do well in apartment living. Rather than bark, they very rarely make other vocalizations including the "Shiba scream," which can be a sharp, vehement protest to bathing or nail-trimming.

14 of 14

Whippet

The Whippet has speed on its side. These dogs can run as fast as 35 miles per hour, but otherwise tend to be homebodies with their people. Give them enough exercise then relax on the couch with them for a quiet evening at home.

Read the original article on Martha Stewart