We’re a nation of dog lovers, with around one-in-three households including at least one four-legged friend.
By far the most popular pet in the UK, they make for wonderful companions, all the while improving both our mental and physical health - and that’s a scientific fact.
The army of dog owners continues to grow, with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds.
Choosing the right breed is absolutely essential – for example opting for a small dog if you don’t have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies.
There’s also always the option of adopting a dog from a dog shelter for a minimal fee - for example from the Dogs Trust.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts the ability to adapt.
One thing to take into consideration is whether a dog that barks or howls could lead to complaints from neighbours, particularly if you live in a flat or apartment.
Or you may want a more vocal breed to act as a guard dog - a bit of barking is likely to deter most intruders.
Whichever is the case, some breeds are far more likley to make a noise than others.
Here are the 20 naturally noisiest - and quietest - breeds of dog.
17. Pomeranian
Owners of Pomeranians are often amazed at the sheer volume of noise that can come out of such a small dog. Once a Pomeranian starts barking it often doesn't know when to stop. | Canva/Getty Images
18. Beagle
Another dog bred to bark is the Beagle - whose ability to communicate an interesting scent proved invaluable at a fox hunt. Beagles have two distinct types of bark - one to alert you to everyday incidents and a long, loud yowl reserved for more special occasions. | Canva/Getty Images
19. Labrador Retriever
The UK's most popular dog breed, many people don't think of Labradors as dogs that bark alot. They get bored easily though, and if they aren't given regular exercise they can become both noisy and destructive. | Canva/Getty Images
20. Maltese
The Maltese makes a great guard dog, instantly barking when they hear an intruder. Unfortunately they often take the smallest of noises to be a threat, the merest rustle of falling leaves enough to provoke a late night volley of barks. | Canva/Getty Images