List of 8 Calm Large Dog Breeds With Quiet Personality

Dogs are man’s best friends. They are companions for life and can be great family pets. But there is a downside as well – they bark. And some breeds bark a lot! So it is not uncommon for people willing to get a dog to think that they will get sleepless nights if they bring a four-legged baby into their lives and homes. But this is not the entire truth. While we cannot wholly deny that you won’t get up at night to calm your barking fur baby – certain breeds prefer to be calmer most of the time. 

We all know that barking is a mode of communication for dogs with others, and almost all dogs bark – more or less. But if you do not want to get frustrated with your furry friend’s untimely and excessive barking, we suggest you get a quiet breed or a breed that would prefer to stay calm most of the time.

By quiet, we do not mean that your dog will be mum when there is an intruder or during emergency calls. But surely be less expressive (vocally) and use other ways to communicate instead of barking in everyday situations. These breeds are great pets in urban apartments, as there won’t be a worry of getting your neighbors disturbed.  

Now, it is essential to understand the ways of a quiet barking breed since they prefer to express themselves in ways other than vocalizing themselves. It is not recommended to ignore your dog if it is less vocal. A quiet dog can come in all sizes and shapes, and you should not take it as a lethargic or sluggish dog.

We’ve compiled a list of the top quiet large dogs from large breeds. However, before we get to the list, let’s look at the qualities of these silent dogs so we can better comprehend them.

Why Do Some Dogs Have Quiet Personalities?

Barking is an inherent quality with dogs. But why are some dogs quieter than others? 

To answer this, we can safely say that certain dog breeds are like that only- they like to keep it quiet. Like introverted humans, these dogs also prefer to be wallflowers, as they can deal with boredom better and don’t want to be the center of attention.

That being said, every dog is different, even within the same breed. So, we should not generalize things too much. Here, however, it is important to note that there may be reasons apart from breed disposition behind being quiet.

• Medical Condition

Having a dog belonging to a quieter breed is different from the one that has gone quiet all of a sudden. So, if you find your dog getting calmer day by day, you should inquire about its health status. Vets often suggest that health problems like trauma, respiratory issues, a metabolic disorder, etc., can be some of the causes that may make dogs aloof. However, there may be other psychological causes as well. 

• Past Issues

If you get a dog showing aloof characteristics, you can check its past. Sometimes a traumatic past can affect a dog’s present, and behavior towards people. Also, if a dog is ever coercively trained to remain quiet, it can affect its communication system. Hence, if your dog has ever experienced this, it is best to love him, understand his silent language, and train him to come out of his shell.

• Unfamiliar Environment

Like most humans, some dogs also find it difficult to adjust to the new environment among new people. 

Some dogs are ecstatic and energetic when it comes to change, while others may be more cautious and anxious. It’s possible that your new pooch isn’t vocal since they’re still getting used to their new surroundings. As a result, allow the time it requires and never force it to mingle in a new setting at the same time.

• Individual Personality

As stated above, some dogs just love to be the center of attention and tend to vocalize their needs more, while others prefer to lay back. 

It’s very natural for a dog to have a reserved demeanor. They will choose to remain silent if barking does not appear to be worth the trouble. So, if your dog is mentally and physically content, you shouldn’t be bothered by his peaceful demeanor. Consider yourself fortunate to have gotten a dog with such a personality!

Are Quiet Dogs Lazy?

It’s a mistake to associate a quiet dog with lethargy. Being sluggish is one thing, and while some dogs prefer to be silent, they make excellent watch and security dogs. Border Collies, for example, are not only active, but they can also outrun and outwit you. The Great Dane is another peaceful dog breed. Unless they are defensive, these dogs like to remain calm.

You could be miscalculating if you plan to take a quiet dog and connect its low vocal habits with its energy level. In fact, some quiet dogs are inherently laid-back; not all have the same attitude. It’s better to go for a background check on the breed you want to purchase.

Large Dog Breeds That Keep Quiet

It’s a fact that dogs will bark, but the difference is that some of them would bark more than others. Of course, you cannot stop a dog from barking completely, but if you are not a fan of a vocal canine, it is best to choose a dog that has a quiet personality. 

Thankfully, many beautiful dogs are quiet, making them ideal for families who require a peaceful home. While breeds developed for hunting and herding have a natural tendency to be quiet, indoor dog breeds such as English toy spaniels can be trained to be calm.

You, however, have an option to choose any breed you want to. But, here, we’ve compiled a list of the top 8 dog breeds that prefer to bark only when necessary.

Bonus Read: 10 Amazing Big Curly Haired Dog Breeds

#1. Bernese Mountain Dogs 

Bernese Mountain Dogs are unquestionably one of the largest dog breeds on the planet. These enormous bears are hairy, fluffy, and cuddly. But, aside from being really cute, this breed is known for being quiet.

You can train this breed to bark less and act more calmly. However, if you buy a Berner, make sure you give it adequate room to run around. It’s observed that a Berner who is less exercised is more outspoken in expressing its demands. This breed also has a favorite person in the family and expects regular attention.

On the downside, however, these dogs are not ideal for small apartments, thanks to their weight and massive stature. 

#2. The Great Pyrenees

When talking about large dog breeds, how can we miss the Great Pyrenees? 

This magnificent canine is large not only in stature but also in personality. It would be best to remember that Great Pyrenees are independent and reticent. Yet, they occasionally bark to indicate their demands. The Pyrenees are also extremely sensitive to even the faintest sound. If they hear something, they will update you about it by barking.

On the other hand, this breed can be taught to bark less. Pyres are also recognized for being composed and friendly with family members while wary of outsiders. As a result, in the early years of your dog’s life, you should train it to be comfortable around strangers.

However, Pyres are peaceful as they mature and are satisfied with daily walk sessions and opportunities to exercise.

#3. Golden Retriever

Perhaps one of the most loved dog breeds on this planet is Golden Retriever. This breed originated in the Victorian Scottish Highlands and bred for sporting purposes. These dogs are attractive and friendly family dogs with magnificent golden coats. They do great with children as well and prefer to keep it quiet.

Goldens make excellent guiding dogs because they rarely bark, and when they do, it indicates that they are friendly. Also, because they don’t bark as loudly as other breeds, you won’t be bothered much when they do.

However, keep an eye on your Golden Retriever since, despite their calm demeanor, a lethargic Golden Retriever could be unwell. Furthermore, this breed is high-energetic and requires regular outdoor time to maintain good physical and mental health.

#4. Rhodesian Ridgeback

Another huge dog breed that does not bark is the Rhodesian Ridgeback. However, be guaranteed that they would increase their voices to attract attention or intimidate others. This breed, however, is recognized for its balanced temperament, athleticism, and friendly disposition.

Rhodesians were bred in South Africa and are recognized for hunting and baying capabilities. If you decide to get one of these dogs, be prepared to deal with their autonomy and powerful hunting drive. A Rhodesian’s daily regimen must include regular outdoor workouts and stroll sessions to channel their energy and keep them in good form.

#5. Chinese Shar-Pei

The Chinese Shar-Pei is an old breed with a calm and collected demeanor and originated in China. They spend much of their time at home relaxing quietly, only raising their voices when they are concerned.

This breed is suitable for city dwellers because it only needs regular exercise and outdoor activities. On the other hand, Shar-Pei tends to be wary of strangers and needs early socializing training. Also, these dogs tend to be dominating or hostile towards other dogs and cats. Hence, if you have another four-legged indoor buddy, they might not be a suitable fit.

#6. Great Dane

Scooby-Doo isn’t the only Great Dane with whom one can fall in love! In truth, every Great Dane is adorable and an excellent choice for folks who prefer a low-noise dog. Their reputation for being playful, loyal, and energetic precedes them, but many of us don’t recognize their calm demeanor.

They make excellent family pets and working dogs because of their friendly attitude. However, consider that Danes have separation anxiety. They require human attention more frequently than other breeds. And if they don’t think they’re getting enough attention, they’ll bark to let you know.

Nonetheless, this breed is peaceful and wears a moderate temperament most of the time!

#7. Newfoundland

Newfoundlands are recognized for their pleasant demeanor, so don’t be scared by their size. In addition, this breed has a solemn and somber disposition. However, their vast size necessitates a large space for them. As a result, Newfoundland may not be the best option for tiny city apartments or houses.

These are independent pooches with placid, quiet attitudes that make them perfect for homes that want a quiet ambiance. They do, however, take regular walks and fun and drool a lot. Keep in mind that these magnificent canines are among the world’s largest dogs; therefore, despite their peaceful demeanor, they may certainly overpower you!

You May Also Read: 10 Large Short Haired Dogs: Breeds With Lower Maintenance

#8. Mastiff

The origins of this large, big canine breed can be traced back to the gladiator era. Mastiffs were used for hunting and guarding in England, but they only bark when absolutely necessary or desire their human’s attention.

Although Mastiffs have a gentle demeanor, they are not suitable for inexperienced dog owners because they require extensive training. Regardless, they are excellent pets for anyone who can handle their enormous size and doesn’t mind a little drool strewn about. A large house, a big cage, and grooming brushes are needed to accommodate a Mastiff.

Summary

Choose any of the above-mentioned quiet dog breeds if you are an introvert who does not enjoy being in a noisy area. Furthermore, if you are looking for a family dog for your city apartment, a calm dog may be an excellent choice. They’d be silent for the most part, and your neighbors wouldn’t be troubled by their barking.

However, the dogs described above are larger, and some of them may not be ideal for apartment life. A Saint Bernard, for example, might not be the best dog for your small city flat, but a Golden Retriever might be.

So, before you adopt a dog, we recommend that you look into all aspects of the breed, not just the level of barking.