The 15 Calmest Dog Breeds

Some dogs are born to sprint, bark, and bounce off the walls. Others are happy to nap beside you, go on relaxed walks, and keep things low-key. If you’re looking for a gentle, chill pup who enjoys the quieter side of life, these 15 calm dog breeds are a perfect match. They’re mellow, loyal, and full of heart without all the extra energy some breeds bring.

Basset Hound

With their droopy ears and sleepy eyes, Basset Hounds practically define chill. They’re low-energy dogs who love lounging just as much as they love sniffing around the yard. They’re not barkers, they’re not jumpers, and they don’t need constant activity. Just give them a comfy bed and a bit of affection, and they’re perfectly happy. Their relaxed nature makes them easy to live with and easy to love.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

These little charmers have soft eyes and even softer personalities. Cavaliers love being close to their humans and are known for their calm and gentle nature. They don’t bark a lot or bounce around uncontrollably. They’d rather curl up on your lap and stay close. They’re great with kids, seniors, and even other pets, making them a perfect choice for anyone wanting a chill pet.

Bernese Mountain Dog

Even though they’re large, Bernese Mountain Dogs are gentle giants at heart. They’re calm, affectionate, and patient—traits that make them amazing family dogs. They do enjoy walks and some outdoor time, but they’re not overly energetic or demanding. Their steady nature makes them easy to train and even easier to trust, and their loyal presence brings a peaceful energy to any home.

Great Dane

Despite their enormous size, Great Danes are surprisingly laid-back. They’re often called “gentle giants” for a reason—they prefer lounging on the couch to causing chaos. They’re friendly, calm around strangers, and usually get along with other animals. Their calmness comes from their confidence and quiet strength. If you have the space, a Great Dane can be one of the most relaxed, loving pets you’ll ever meet.

Shih Tzu

These tiny pups were originally bred to be lap dogs, and they still take that job very seriously. They’re calm, content, and happy to spend the day beside you doing absolutely nothing. Their small size makes them ideal for apartments or small homes, and their personalities are full of warmth and charm. They’re rarely aggressive or anxious, and they know how to bring quiet joy to everyday life.

Greyhound

People think of Greyhounds as race dogs, but off the track, they’re incredibly calm and lazy. In fact, most Greyhound owners say their dogs act more like cats, napping all day and moving only when necessary. They’re quiet, easygoing, and good with kids and adults alike. If you want a calm dog that doesn’t need hours of exercise, a Greyhound might surprise you in the best way.

Newfoundland

This big, fluffy breed might look intimidating, but Newfoundlands are known for being very calm, patient, and sweet. They’re fantastic with children and tend to move slowly and carefully, almost like they know their size. They enjoy gentle walks and love being near water, but most of all, they love people. Their peaceful nature makes them ideal therapy dogs and great companions in quiet homes.

Clumber Spaniel

Clumber Spaniels are one of the most relaxed members of the spaniel family. They move with slow, deliberate steps and often give off a slightly sleepy vibe, which suits them perfectly. They’re friendly without being hyper, and they bond deeply with their people. They’re not as well-known as some breeds, but anyone who wants a mellow, loyal dog would fall for a Clumber in no time.

Bulldog

Bulldogs have a strong, stocky build, but their personalities are pure calm. They’re easygoing, affectionate, and don’t require much activity to stay happy. They’re happy with a short walk and then plenty of downtime, and they’re not known to be yappy or destructive. Their low-key energy makes them great for apartments, and they’re known to be especially loyal and chill with people of all ages.

Saint Bernard

Saint Bernards are massive dogs with hearts to match. They’re famously gentle and surprisingly calm, especially for their size. They have a strong instinct to protect, but they do it with patience and love, not aggression. They do need space, but not constant action. Their sweet nature makes them a great choice for families looking for a calm dog who brings a sense of peace to the home.

Labrador Retriever (Senior or Low-Energy)

While young Labs are known for their playful energy, older Labs or those with a naturally mellow temperament are some of the calmest companions you can find. They’re deeply loyal, easy to train, and great at adapting to your lifestyle. Once they grow out of the puppy stage, many Labs become peaceful, well-mannered, and incredibly comforting to be around, especially for families or first-time dog owners.

Tibetan Spaniel

Tibetan Spaniels are calm, alert, and perfectly content relaxing around the house. They form strong bonds with their people and don’t need tons of attention or playtime to stay happy. Their independent streak makes them a little cat-like, and their mellow temperament helps them stay cool even in busy environments. They’re great for someone who wants a calm dog that still has personality and presence.

Irish Wolfhound

Irish Wolfhounds are calm, quiet, and very sweet. They’re one of the easiest large breeds, known for being sweet-natured and deeply bonded with their humans. While they need some space to stretch their legs, they’re not high-strung or overly excitable. Their calm temperament makes them a peaceful presence in the home and a reliable, loving companion.

Whippet

Like their Greyhound cousins, Whippets love a quick sprint but are mostly couch potatoes at heart. They thrive on love and calm environments, and they rarely bark or misbehave. They enjoy short bursts of exercise followed by long naps, making them ideal for people with quiet routines. Their soft, affectionate personality makes them easy to live with, and their low-maintenance energy helps keep life peaceful.

Keeshond

Keeshonds are friendly, loyal, and surprisingly calm for a fluffy dog. They’re alert without being overly excitable and have a warm, people-focused temperament. They enjoy time with family and aren’t known for hyper behavior or nonstop barking. They adapt well to various home sizes and routines, and their mellow personality makes them feel more like a best friend than a demanding pets.