20 Calmest Dog Breeds That Make Perfect Laid-Back Companions
Not every dog is a ball of energy, and for many people, that’s a relief. You’ll enjoy life with a calm breed if you’re more into quiet evenings than chaotic playtimes. So, let’s explore some of the biggest couch potatoes and little lap warmers. These 20 breeds are known for their relaxed, easygoing nature.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Originally bred as a companion for royalty, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel still excels at their job. These affectionate pups love nothing more than curling up next to their humans. They adapt easily to different households, get along with kids and other pets, and are content with short daily walks.
Basset Hound
Basset Hounds have a laid-back vibe that matches their droopy eyes and long ears. These dogs prefer a slow, relaxed lifestyle. Their keen sense of smell may lead them on sniffing adventures, but Basset Hounds are more about leisurely strolls than high-energy sprints.
Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds are gentle despite their intimidating size. They were once used for hunting wild animals, but today, Irish Wolfhounds are famous for their mellow temperament. While they need space to stretch their legs, these dogs are low-energy indoors.
Great Pyrenees
Patient and independent, the Great Pyrenees are not aggressive. Instead, they like to keep watch over their family with quiet confidence. This calm breed is a wonderful companion for those who appreciate a protective yet peaceful dog that isn’t always raring to go.
Shih Tzu
A Shih Tzu can be your best friend. The little dog is friendly, adaptable, and surprisingly easygoing. They also enjoy a playful romp but are happiest lounging on couches or lying in your lap. A Shih Tzu’s biggest demand? Attention from their humans, which they’ll always seek in the sweetest way.
St Bernard
While they started as working dogs in the Swiss Alps, St. Bernards are now famous for their patience and affectionate nature. These pooches need early training due to their size. Once they settle into family life, St Bernards are calm, loving, and perfectly content napping for most of the day.
Bernese Mountain Dog
This Swiss breed is a mix of strength and sweetness. Bernese Mountain Dogs are great with kids, love their families, and remain calm in most situations. A lover of outdoor adventures, it’s surprising that these dogs are not hyperactive. They simply like to be wherever their people are.
French Bulldog
Frenchies are one of the most adaptable breeds. They can stay happy anywhere. Be it an apartment with singles or a house with a large family. A serious love of napping balances their playful side. One of the best low-energy breeds, Frenchies don’t need much exercise and are happy to chill with their owners.
Newfoundland
With a patient, affectionate nature, Newfoundlands become wonderful family members. So, if you’re looking for a big dog that stays calm most of the time, this breed is a great choice. Newfoundland dogs don’t even require high-intensity exercise. They do love water, though.
Maltese
Need a lap warmer? A Maltese dog will be perfect for you. The dog tends to be playful and energetic, especially as a puppy. Occasionally, or when they grow up, Maltese usually enjoy relaxing alongside their owners. Short walks are often enough to keep them happy.
Greyhound
This breed is built for serious work, but off the job, Greyhounds are surprisingly chill. You can call them the biggest couch potatoes of the canine world. Retired Greyhounds love lounging just as much as they love running. They are independent yet affectionate and a great choice for people who want a low-maintenance pet.
English Bulldog
English Bulldogs tend to stay gentle and relaxed even with a muscular build. The breed is quite friendly. They remain the happiest in a quiet home where they can lounge and enjoy moderate daily walks. Low energy makes them the best choice for quiet evenings that don’t come with constant play.
Tibetan Spaniel
These small, cat-like dogs were once monastery watchdogs in Tibet and companions to Buddhist monks. Tibetan Spaniels are highly alert and love to perch on high surfaces, quietly observing their surroundings. This breed is much less demanding than other lapdogs.
Pug
Pugs are adored for their quirky personalities. They are one of the best low-maintenance, peaceful breeds for both city and suburban living due to their small size and adaptable attitude. While they love a bit of playtime, they’re just as happy curling up next to you.
Clumber Spaniel
Clumber Spaniels are among the calmest Spaniels. They love a good game of fetch but aren’t overly energetic. Plus, the dogs are affectionate and prefer lounging around the house. However, training them requires patience because they can be a bit stubborn.
Great Dane
Surprised to see Great Danes on the list? Well, they are big but incredibly calm and affectionate. These German dogs love their families. Since they are often unaware of their huge size, they naturally try to be the lap dogs they are.
Boerboel
Initially raised for the purpose of protecting farms, Boerboel is a calm South African breed. As independent thinkers, they thrive with consistent training but don’t require constant stimulation. When they’re properly exercised, you’ll find them relaxing around the house most of the time.
Bergamasco Sheepdog
This unique-looking breed has a long, matted coat. Bergamascos were raised to work alongside shepherds and become great family members. These Italian dogs are observant, intelligent, and calm in most situations.
Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels used to be hunting dogs. Today, they have an affectionate, people-loving nature. Both the American Cocker Spaniel and the English Cocker Spaniel have a good nature. With the right training and socialization, they’re one of the best dogs for families.
Whippet
Whippets may be built for speed, but they have an incredibly relaxed nature at home. The little dogs love to snuggle up after a quick sprint. They rarely bark, require minimal grooming, and can be your best companion if you enjoy light activity and quiet time.
