6 Dog Breeds That Love to Bark

August 28, 2019

If you’re interested in getting a new puppy, make sure your dream breed isn’t one that likes to bark a lot. It’s true that barking is a form of puppy communication, and it helps keep you alert with potential intruders. In a small neighborhood or apartment, however, excessive barking may cause your neighbors to resent your puppy and you!

While you can train your four-legged friend to stop their barking habit, you may face many challenges that requires your time and effort. 

Instead, let’s take a look at 6 breeds that love barking. That way, you can choose a breed that’s much more serene and laidback than the following:

1. Beagle

Beagles are a cute and lively breed that loves to bark to their little heart’s content. If they catch sight of children, you can bet they will make as much noise as possible. Beagles are very playful and outgoing pooches, which makes them great with kids. Barking, for these furry cuties, is a way to initiate play or ward off strangers. It’s often a challenge to keep them quiet, even if they’re trained!

2. Yorkshire Terrier

Small but sassy, the Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie, for short) is an alert dog that will bark at anything or anyone they aren’t familiar with. Despite their height, Yorkies are very bold, and will let you know what’s on their mind. Barking is their way of protecting their territory and loved ones. Some Yorkies may have a hard time eliminating this habit in training. 

3. Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is an affectionate and loyal breed but only with those they know. They can be quite sensitive and suspicious with strangers, and will bark at anything unfamiliar. It’s a trait that makes them excellent watchdogs, but like many small dogs, they take their job a bit too seriously. A Chihuahua with an enthusiasm for barking won’t leave your neighbors very happy!

4. Miniature Schnauzer

Packed with a guarding instinct, Miniature Schnauzers are known for their barking habits. This breed does do well with training to a certain extent, but their wariness of strangers isn’t a trait you can get rid of. If you like having a loyal guard dog, this breed may be a good fit for your home. To train this breed, you will need to show them to redirect their barking towards strangers, not guests. 

5. West Highland Terrier

Another terrier breed, the West Highland Terrier is an energetic, intelligent dog that tends to bark if they’re bored. Their high intelligence means you will need to continually train and engage them in an activity. West Highland Terriers also make great watch dogs due to their alert and sturdy nature.

6. Cairn Terrier

Cheerful and active, the Cairn Terrier is always incredibly alert and quick to bark at any changes in their environment. Their bark is often described as high-pitched, which may be annoying to neighbors. Cairn Terriers are also independent and mischievous. They may try to test your limits so training these fur-babies can be a challenge—but not impossible!

If barking isn’t a trait that matters much to you, be aware that you may need to spend some time puppy training this habit away. In many cases, these pooches are able to successfully reduce this behavior with enough training and patience! We hope this list helps you find your perfect furry soulmate!

✓ This article has been reviewed by Petland Miami’s expert team to ensure accuracy and reliable pet care guidance.