What Kinds of Dogs Bark the Loudest?

All dogs bark loudly when excited or scared. Some dogs bark more often than others, but this largely a matter of training.

Considerations

Loud barking, whether high and piercing or deep and roaring, irritates neighbors and burglars. You can teach your dog the former is a no-no while the latter is welcome.

Identification

An easy and effective way of judging a quiet breed of dog from a loud one is to not go by breed but by type. A dog's breed has to do with its looks. A dog's type has to do with the duties it was originally bred for.

Types

Dogs bred to hunt or guard such as terriers and shepherds will bark more readily than dogs bred for companionship or leisure.

Misconceptions

You can't judge a dog's bark by its size. Tiny poodles will yap with ear-splitting aggression if allowed. They've got bear hunter in them.

Deciding

Coonhounds, beagles, spaniels, setters and pointers are hunting types with loud, resonant barks. Loud watchdogs include Dobermans, bulldogs, mastiffs, pit bulls and schnauzers.

References

• Dog Breed Information Center
• Kidipede