Everyone’s living situation is different. Maybe you just moved into an apartment with thin walls. Maybe you have a roommate. Or maybe you’re just the type of person who needs peace and quiet. If you’re looking to adopt a new pup, but are worried you may also be adopting the added stress of a dog that won’t stop barking, here is a list of dog breeds that bark the least.

Pugs

Everyone loves a Pug. Their little smushed faces are adored by millions. But it’s their happy-go-lucky, low-stress demeanor that makes them the perfect roommate. They prefer the company of people, so you don’t have to worry too much about them barking at strangers. Pugs may be the most popular breed on this list, so you know they’re doing something right!

Great Dane

If you can handle the size of a Great Dane, these majestic beauties make very sensible and quiet companions. They maintain their composure in almost every situation and you don’t have to worry about these gentle giants feeling a sense of stranger danger, as they are known for remaining calm in stressful situations.

Mastiff

Another Gentle Giant with a mild-mannered demeanor, Mastiffs share a lot of the same personality traits as a Great Dane. Other than a little drool, not much comes out of their mouths.

Scottish Deerhound

Characterized by their refined charisma, these ancient hunters are very intelligent — they only use their bark in necessary situations. Most of the time Scottish Deerhounds are probably too busy pondering the meaning of life to worry about barking at the mailman.

Japanese Chin

These vibrant little fellas aren’t like most small dogs; they’re not easily threatened or concerned with barking for arbitrary reasons. However, they will bark for things that are out of the ordinary in an attempt to alert their owner. Not only are Japanese Chins extremely loyal and easily socialized, but they’re known for their ability to do fun tricks like the ‘Chin Spin’.

Basenji

The Basenji is an uncommon breed, with an even more uncommon characteristic: they can’t bark. That’s right, these dogs don’t have the ability to bark, instead they’re more like Norwegian mountaineers because when they’re excited, they yodel.

Rhodesian Ridgeback

These loyal and intelligent companions may have a penchant for trouble making, but they respond very well to reward-based training and make excellent guard dogs. Excessive barking isn’t in their nature and Rhodesian Ridgebacks will typically only bark when they’re on duty.

Greyhound

They may be the fastest dog in the world, but you’ll never hear these guys bragging about it. Described as having a docile and calm sensibility — excessive barking is definitely not in the Greyhound’s repertoire.

Bulldog

You may have noticed Bulldogs and Bulldog-mixes becoming exceedingly popular over the last few years. But it’s not just their adorably sour faces that win people over — it’s the fact that these gruff faced pups are super laid back. They are often described as lazy, docile and loving. However, sometimes they can be socially stubborn with other dogs.

Golden Retriever

Perhaps the friendliest dog in the world, the Golden Retriever is an active breed who loves to play. If their energy is channeled through activity and exercise, you won’t hear much barking from these golden beauties. They don’t make excellent guard dogs, because they’re more likely to lick a robber’s face than alert you of the danger.

Chinese Shar-Pei

Known for being adorable, wrinkly and loving — the Chinese Shar-Pei is a quiet dog with a penchant for devotion. Although, if faced with a threat, they won’t hesitate to speak up.

Collie

The only loud part about Collies is their lavish coats. Some barking is to be expected in the face of danger, which can be a good thing. If Timmy is stuck down a well, Lassie will be sure to let you know.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

With a history of royalty, these furry eared friends usually get treated that way. Their highly affectionate and eager-to-please attitude often creates a very strong bond with their owners. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a playful breed, who enjoys chasing birds, not barking at them.

Akita

Originally hunters from the Japanese mountains, Akita are a powerful and independent dog breed with a calculated personality. The Akita is so revered in Japan it’s considered a National Monument. An Akita’s temperament can be aloof with strangers, and tend to be socially dominant with other dogs — proper socialization is essential.

Of course if not properly cared for or trained, even these cool headed pups might be prone to barking. Our furry companions bark for all sorts of reasons — sounding an alarm, stranger-danger, playing, excitement, fear, and insecurity. The best way to stop excessive barking is through regimented training, plenty of exercise, and by avoiding high-anxiety situations.