It's a mini schaunzer and it is 9 years old, we just got him today. The women working said she has never heard him bark and he never whimpers. He does get scared sometimes when someone raises there hand to pet him, as if we where going to hit him. Could not barking be a sign of abuse? And can a vet tell if a dog underwent the bark softening surgery?

If a dog can be trained to kill people or roll over it can be trained to not bark looks like the last owner used abuse to train him not to bark. So show him he's warm safe and loved maybe he will break the habbit of not barking sad story goodluck

Some dogs aren't barkers. There is no medical, physical reason behind it... They just aren't vocal. Will things change in 6 months to a year? Very possible.

Not every rescue dog is abused. And not every dog that is head shy has been beaten. Submissive, scared dogs can act like victims of abuse.

Enjoy the peace and quiet! I'd love a dog who doesn't bark lol