like typh said it depends on what you want from a dog, really. some dog breeds are better suited to do some tasks than others. livestock guardian breeds are usually large and instinctively protective and are able to blend in with the livestock they protect, which makes them fit for their job. guard dogs are usually large, strong and have loud barks. what breed of dog you want depends on what you want from it.
you're probably just looking for a companion dog if you don't want a dog to do a specific kind of work or task. most companion dogs are small and do well in social environments, so they're suited to being around the house - that's what they were bred to do.
if you are interested in getting a dog, it's important that you get a breed that you know you can manage and that you recognize how much responsibility goes into raising one. most companion breeds are small and non-threatening like terriers, so worrying about barking should be a non-issue if you get the dog as a puppy. some dogs are also naturally quiet.