Not all working dogs are high-energy whirlwinds. Some get the job done with calm confidence, bringing strength, dependability, and a cool demeanor to the table. These easygoing working dog breeds prove that you don’t have to be hyper to be helpful.
They’re the quiet heroes—whether they’re pulling sleds, guarding property, or assisting people with daily tasks. These calm dog breeds are steady, adaptable, and unfazed by chaos, making them ideal for families, farms, and even first-time dog owners.
Naturally, every dog requires a certain level of care and attention—none can truly flourish without it, particularly during their early training stages. Some dogs shed very little, and others may require routine grooming, but what they all share is a calm, easygoing nature that makes them ideal companions for families.
Let’s meet the most easygoing working dogs—breeds that balance a solid work ethic with a chill personality. If you want a capable companion that knows when to work and when to relax, these good low maintenance breeds might be the perfect match.
Easygoing Working Dog Breeds
1. Great Dane
Great Danes, often referred to as German Mastiffs, are a blend of the Old English Mastiff and Irish Wolfhound. Originally bred for hunting, but today, they are much more likely to be found as a calm dog breed lounging on the couch, snuggling with their owners.
Standing at an impressive height, they’re the epitome of a sweet-tempered giant breed. Known for their towering stature, these dogs are as affectionate and loving as they are big. Despite their size, these guard dogs have calm and friendly personalities, making them excellent companions for families.
Their easygoing nature makes them perfect for those who appreciate a laid-back companion that can also be protective when needed. They are also well-suited as service dogs, especially when working with small children. And, yes, you’ll need a big couch for your big friend, but a Great Dane’s loyalty and loving demeanor will make every inch of space worth it.
Why You’ll Love a Great Dane
✔ Calm and Gentle — known for their easygoing nature
✔ Affectionate Companions — they love spending time with their family and are great with kids
✔ Protective When Needed — though they’re sweet, they’ve got a protective side
They’re naturally alert and energetic, making them an excellent watchdog. As per WebMD, they also adjust well to new environments, routines, and experiences, which adds to their adaptable and easygoing nature. However, they do require mental engagement, so keeping them occupied with stimulating activities is important.
2. Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees is a regal and majestic breed that looks like it should be guarding castles — but instead, it’s guarding your family with love and care. Originally bred to guard flocks of sheep in the mountainous regions of Europe, these dogs are natural protectors with a calm and easygoing nature.
The Great Pyrenees typically stands between 25 to 32 inches tall at the shoulder. Females usually weigh around 85 pounds, while males often exceed 100 pounds. Their large size and thick coat make them stand out, but it’s their affectionate and loyal personalities that truly make them special.
They can be independent due to their history as working dogs, but their devotion to their families is unmatched. Despite their guarding instincts, they are gentle with their loved ones and get along well with children and other pets.
Why You’ll Love a Great Pyrenees
✔ Natural Protectors — they’ll guard your family with pride
✔ Calm and Easygoing — these dogs are relaxed and enjoy a quiet life at home
✔ Affectionate Nature — they’re affectionate with family and good with kids
Great Pyrenees aren’t big on chasing, but they do have a strong instinct to bark and alert their family—sometimes even just to let you know the mail carrier has arrived, says PetMD.
Despite their thick fur, Great Pyrenees don’t require intensive grooming. Their long outer coat resists dirt and tangles, but weekly brushing helps manage their soft undercoat and keeps shedding under control.
3. Leonberger
The Leonberger is like a giant teddy bear, only with more fluff and a heart of gold. These dogs are mild-mannered and were bred to be working dogs; they also worked on farms, but their true talent lies in being exceptional family companions.
After facing near extinction during both World Wars, the Leonberger has made a strong comeback and is now commonly seen working in search-and-rescue roles or enjoying life as a loyal family companion.
With their beautiful mane and large build, they have an air of nobility, but don’t let that fool you — they’re incredibly friendly, laid-back, and social dogs.
This calm dog breed makes them a great fit for families, and their love for human interaction is as big as their size. They’re also excellent with kids and make great family pets for anyone looking for a loyal, loving companion who can double as a couch potato.
Why You’ll Love a Leonberger
✔ Gentle and Friendly — despite their size, they’re incredibly affectionate
✔ Great with Kids — they’re patient, loving, and gentle with little ones
✔ Easygoing Nature — they love being around family and are happy to lounge around with you
Leonbergers need daily exercise, like a brisk walk or hike. They thrive when given a purpose—whether it’s pulling sleds, swimming, or taking part in agility activities.
These easygoing working breeds are all about loyalty, love, making them perfect companions for families or individuals looking for a calm, affectionate dog that’s still up for a bit of work when needed.
4. Mastiff
Mastiffs, also known as ‘Old English Mastiff’, are an ancient breed of Britain, and they may be large and intimidating in size, but their hearts are as big as their bodies. These popular giant dogs have been used as guardians for centuries.
They typically weigh between 120–230 pounds and have a strong, muscular frame. Despite their imposing size, their broad, wrinkled faces often carry a gentle, affectionate expression that wins over their families.
Mastiffs have a gentle nature, making them good companions for families with children who know how to interact with dogs. However, due to their large size, they may be better suited for homes without very young children, who could be accidentally knocked over by these giant dogs.
Why You’ll Love a Mastiff
✔ Gentle Giants — despite their size, they’re calm and affectionate
✔ Great Family Companions — they’re patient and great with kids
✔ Protective — they’ll always have your back when it matters
Mastiffs are protective, but they’re not barkers — they prefer to watch over their loved ones quietly. They’re loyal to a fault and, although they don’t require a lot of grooming, they do need their space.
Hear out pet parents, if you’re looking for a gentle giant who’ll cuddle up on the couch but also stand guard, the Mastiff could be the dog for you.
5. Newfoundland
Another breed on our list is the Newfoundland, affectionately known as “Newfies”, a gentle giant with a love for water. These dogs were originally bred to work as water rescue dogs, and their love for swimming remains one of their defining traits.
With their imposing appearance, muscular frame, and thick, water-resistant coat, Newfoundlands are built for hard work — but they’re also incredibly intelligent and easygoing.
Newfoundlands are born swimmers, thanks to their webbed paws that help them glide through water. Their thick coat also keeps them warm in cold temperatures, making them perfect for aquatic activities.
Newfoundlands are known for their friendly and calm nature, making them great companions at home. They’re patient with children and get along well with other dogs and cats, making them good therapy dogs as well.
Why You’ll Love a Newfoundland
✔ Excellent service dogs for Kids — patient and gentle with little ones
✔ Water Lovers — they’ll enjoy swimming and playing in the water
✔ Affectionate Companions — they’re loving and devoted to their families
Newfoundlands are laid-back dog breeds that don’t require intense exercise, but they still need daily walks, occasional hikes, or swims to stay mentally stimulated and avoid gaining weight.
Just be prepared for some wet paws after a trip to the lake — and don’t be surprised if your Newfoundland decides to dive in the moment they spot water!
6. Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard is one of the most iconic giant breeds, known for their friendly and affectionate nature. The St. Bernard was originally bred as a working companion, and they continue to be eager to please their owners while excelling at hard work.
Known for their natural scenting ability, St. Bernards can participate in tracking events and even search and rescue missions, depending on their training and skills, according to Wikipedia.
Though they have a history of being life-saving heroes, today, they’re more likely to be found lounging around the house, seeking cuddles from their family.
Saint Bernards are good-natured and patient, making them a great choice for families with kids. They’re known for their gentle temperament and are typically very social, getting along well with both children and other pets.
Why You’ll Love a Saint Bernard
✔ Patient and Gentle — they’re great with kids and love being part of the family
✔ Good-Natured — these dogs are affectionate and friendly to everyone they meet
✔ Quiet and Calm — they’re calm, despite their large size, and love to relax
St. Bernard dogs are considered high-maintenance pets, as they need plenty of care and attention from their owners to keep them happy and healthy. St. Bernards don’t require extensive exercise but benefit from regular play to stay in good shape. Engaging in physical activity helps keep them healthy and active.
7. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, fluffy breed known for its loving and calm nature. The first thing you’ll notice about Bernese is their impressive size, typically standing 23–27.5 inches tall and weighing between 70–115 pounds.
These dogs were originally bred in the Swiss Alps to work on farms, but their affectionate nature makes them exceptional family dogs today. With their striking tri-colored coat and gentle demeanor, Bernese Mountain Dogs are as beautiful as they are friendly.
While they enjoy some physical activity, they’re equally content lounging around and being loved on by their family. Bernese Mountain Dogs are loyal companions who will stick by your side through thick and thin.
Why You’ll Love a Bernese Mountain Dog
✔ Loyal and Loving — they form strong bonds with their families
✔ Good with Kids — they’re great companions for children
✔ Playful and Affectionate — they enjoy spending time with their family and cuddling on the couch
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), Bernese are friendly with the whole family and especially gentle with children, though they often form a special bond with one particular person.
Bernese Mountain Dogs can be a bit reserved with strangers. Early socialization with people, dogs, and cats helps them become well-adjusted adults, reducing the chances of anxiety or behavioral issues.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the right pup for a laid-back lifestyle, calm dog breeds check all the boxes. Whether you’re raising small children, living in a quieter home, or just want a laid-back dog breed that still enjoys playtime and the occasional adventure, these breeds offer the perfect balance of affection, intelligence, and temperament.
From gentle giants like the Irish Wolfhound and Mastiff to highly trainable, sweet-natured pups like the Bernese Mountain Dog, Saint Bernard, and Newfoundland, these dogs are built for companionship, and calm, yet they shine in activities like obedience training and dog sports, thanks to their high intelligence and strong desire to please. Don’t be fooled by their relaxed nature—Other breeds, like the Border Collie, still need to exercise daily to stay happy and healthy.
Even medium-sized dogs to small breeds known for their easygoing vibes, like the Basset Hound, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Bichon Frise, Labrador Retriever, and Golden Retriever, make fantastic family pets. So, whether you’re looking for a furry companion who fits your chill lifestyle but still keeps up on walks, these easygoing breeds are as lovable as they are loyal, proving that calm dogs can still be some of the most capable and clever companions you’ll ever meet.
