Dogs have a bigger vocabulary than you may think. They may not have words, but they can bark, whine, whimper, howl, yelp, yip, growl, and more. Vocalization is an important part of all dogs’ communication styles, but some have more to say than others.
These vocal breeds make themselves heard for a variety of reasons: guard dogs sounding the alarm; working dogs gathering the herd; hunting dogs signaling the start of the hunt; and toy breeds making lots of noise to make up for their minimal size. From howling hounds to yapping Yorkies, these are nine of the most vocal dog breeds in the world.
Basset Hound
via flickr/briael
Bassets are a laid-back family dog, and they love nothing more than taking a long, leisurely walk with their people. Just don’t leave your basset alone in the yard, or you’ll be treated to a mournful serenade. The infamous basset howl can be loud and long-lasting, but to basset lovers, it’s a beautiful sound (in small doses, at least).
Malamute
via flickr/tigertom
These big, beautiful Alaskan dogs were originally bred to pull sleighs through the frozen north, which makes them huge, hearty, and extremely strong-willed. Malamutes aren’t right for every home: they’re very smart and curious, and can be destructive when bored. But they love kids are are generally loyal and loving to their people, making them a good fit for dog-savvy families. Malamutes are also extremely vocal, but it’s not always barking or howling: they also yodel, yip, chirp, grumble, snort, and more to communicate. Some Malamutes even sing!
Miniature Pinscher
via flickr/malenga
The proud, spirited Min Pin is known for its distinctive gait and “big dog in a little body” attitude. Min Pins are busy guard dogs, barking furiously at any perceived intruder or threat. They’re also extremely smart and trainable, and known for their sense of humor. Min Pins make loyal, loving, if sometimes loud pets.
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Beagle
These smaller scent hounds have the personality (and voice) of a dog three times their size. Beagles are known for their keen intellect and fun, playful nature, as well as their amazing ability to sniff out treats (and, for working hunter, prey). As to their voice: the beagle bay is a distinct and loud, but you have to admit, they’re pretty cute once they get going.
Pomeranian
The clever, bright-eyed Pomeranian is the smallest of the Spitz breeds (characterized by long, thick fur and pointed ears and muzzle). Among the most intelligent toy dogs, Poms are known for being busy, active, and social. Their bark is a big part of their personality, used to communicate perceived threats, happy excitement, and sometimes just because.
Bloodhound
Another nose-led hound, bloodhounds have a deeper, more resonant bay than Beagles. They’re known for being affectionate, comical, sensitive, and reserved, and they tend to love kids, making them excellent family pets. Like other hounds, these guys love to be close to their people, and they may let loose a mournful howl when left alone.
Chihuahua
These sassy little dogs with big personalities are among the most talkative breeds around. Chihuahuas are tenacious watchdogs, and will bark to alert you to strange sights, sounds, and people. Proper socialization and training will help to teach your chi when and when not to bark, but in general, they use their voice a lot. Good thing these little yippers are so cute!
Siberian Husky
Like its cousin the Alaskan Malamute, the Siberian Husky is a hearty sled dog with a keen intellect. These active, athletic dogs need a lot of exercise to keep them happy, but as long as they’re kept busy, they make wonderful family pets (though they don’t always mesh well with cats). As for their voice: huskies don’t often bark, but they will howl along with sirens and songs, and are famous for “talking.”
Yorkshire Terrier
One of the most popular dog breeds in America, Yorkies are beloved for their silky coat, playful personalities, and small size. Yorkies are terriers through and through: tenacious, spirited, spunky, smart, and playul. They can also be rather demanding, and are considered “naturally yappy,” using their yips and barks to express pleasure and displeasure alike.
For most dogs, vocalization is a natural and normal means of communication. Excessive barking can be frustrating (training can help), but usually, if your dog is making noise, it has a good reason. Learn more about the sounds dogs make here, and enjoy your dog’s unique voice!
