Looking for a dog that matches your calm, cozy lifestyle? Meet the world’s most laid-back pups; the ones who’d rather curl up on the couch with you than chase every squirrel in sight. These gentle companions are sensitive, affectionate, and surprisingly good at picking up on your moods.
While they still need a bit of daily exercise, they’re happiest lounging indoors, snoozing at your feet, or soaking up cuddles in your lap. Perfect for busy people, first-time dog owners, families with kids, or even seniors, these low-maintenance pups are all about bringing peace into your home.
So, if you’re craving a four-legged friend who’ll be your calm in the chaos, always steady, sweet, and serene, let’s dive into the most popular dog breeds known for their chill vibes and easygoing nature.
Popular Dog Breeds That Are Extremely Laid Back
1. Basset Hound
An ultimately recognizable low stature, sad puppy eyes, sweet face, and large floppy ears. These low-energy dogs with a slow pace are one of the greatest noses of the canine world, known for their great success in scent work.
Cannot believe it? Just go meet one of these low-to-the-ground hounds at a local shelter and see for yourself.
PetMD was originally bred in France from the St. Hubert hounds. This charming, low-key puppy is a vision in form and character. Built with heavy bones, powerful little legs, and massive paws, the basset hound is here to show more endurance than speed.
Mild and agreeable at home, this dog with a gentle temperament also has a stubborn and independent streak. But also, a wildly demonstrative way of showing their affection and steadfast loyalty.
Hence, this effortlessly cool dog with extremely low maintenance needs is a great dog for busy and active adults and pet parents who prefer calmer breeds.
2. Neapolitan Mastiff
This massive, powerful guard has an intimidating, scary, and wrinkly presence that is apt for deflecting and deterring strangers. But did you know that this astoundingly solid, dignified, and noble dog breed is a sweet, placid, and steady guy out there?
Could be deemed as the king of low-energy dogs, the Neapolitan mastiff, or lovingly called the Mastino, is the ultimate example of true beauty that lies within.
Hence, if you are not too keen about registering your puppy for dog sports. Get one of these ancient war dogs, gladiators, and guardians that might look beasty on the outside but are incredibly loving on the inside.
Purina says they are famous for their iconic oversized skin that forms loose folds of dewlap and lips. This majestic breed is a great puppy for people looking for a Zen dog.
The favorite hobby of this dog is napping in a spot of sunshine. Moreover, their heavily wrinkly appearance gives them the much-needed edge and uniqueness lacking in other dog breeds.
3. Bulldog
These big-eyed, family-friendly, flat-faced cuties are buffy, wrinkly, and fun-loving in all the right places.
Hence, meet the infamous bulldog, renowned for their less active, less worked-up temperaments. But hey, why do you think these bulldogs are at the top of the list of low-energy breeds?
It is because these less energetic dogs can practically host a snooze fest at any time of the day. But beware, don’t let the sleepiness of this dog rub off on you, as some movement, exercise, and indoor play sessions are highly needed to keep this bully breed in good shape and happy spirits.
VCA Animal Hospitals says this pup originated in England with the practice of bull baiting, but is now known for its extremely laid-back demeanor. Bulldogs are possibly the most fun-loving and calmest dog breed on this entire list.
4. Pug
Who needs a hyperactive brainiac when you have so much love and cuddles packed into one little doggy package? These cheerful, happy, and goofy clowns were originally bred to sit in the lap of luxury and are named pretty royally, which they surely deserve.
Hence, if you are looking for a good-natured, gentle breed that doesn’t give you a lot of trouble, is extremely low maintenance, and low on energy. Get one of these bright and entertaining Pugs.
According to Orvis, they will not only happily accompany you for cozy movie nights. But also fit in any small home or apartment due to their small size and big personality.
5. Shih Tzu
Giddy up for exploring the slow-paced, lazy lane of sweet, calm canines. These fur babies are known for being the easiest to handle and raise.
Because they love shorter walks, indoor games, and their non-negotiable beauty sleep, add to it their enthusiasm for catching up with their beloved humans a tad bit more than their bouncier cousins, and there you have it, now you know what a shih tzu wants the most.
Hailing from the Himalayan ranges in Tibet, these little lions are a picture of grace and minimalism. Content with their short play dates and utterly grateful and happy to be involved in the daily doings of their owners. This lively pup and vigilant watchdog are the ultimate companions for people of all ages.
The Shih tzu is not so fragile, a moderately sturdy breed that is always eager to learn new tricks; they even do great in agility. But you should be mindful of their activity, because these hypoallergenic pups are also brachycephalic. Hence can face breathing issues due to overexertion and heat.
6. Pekingese
This beautifully squashed-faced canine is born to be a part of the royalty. But don’t underestimate them for their small size. These dogs are vibrant like a rainbow due to their colorful personalities.
Whether it be a falling leaf, blowing wind, or an unsuspected guest at your door, these classic watchdogs will alert you to anything and everything happening in your surroundings.
Think of the Pekingese as your royal stooge, who’ll give you morning, evening, and night reports talking about the threat your neighbor’s cat can cause you. But after giving you these elaborate reports, these relaxed, lovable, and calm dog breeds will be found snoozing off under the duvet.
Their motto in life is that true adventure should be brief, not tiring, or elongated so that it squeezes the fun out of your soul.
7. Havanese
Want a protective and loving silky-haired shadow glued to your side? Take note of the Havanese. This calm dog with a small body and luscious, long locks of hypoallergenic hair is the ultimate friendly companion and a social bug who loves to be around people and make friends.
But will keep you at the epicenter of the world, like you are their sun, moon, and stars. This national dog of Cuba belongs to the curious and peppy bichon family and is a wonderful, loyal dog who is easy to train and manage.
Might have slightly more energy than the rest of the breeds and also harbors a great love for exploring the outdoors due to his intelligence and curiosity. Hence, walking in the dog park among beautiful nature is a great way to keep them happy.
But this puppy will also prefer to stay in your lap and snuggle with you. Hence, there is not much to worry about on the exercise front.
8. Clumber Spaniel
This largest of the spaniels is more unique than the rest of his sprightly, energetic cousins. They are calm, humble, and amiable pups with a passion for bird hunting. But it is mostly found lying close to its owners for most of the day.
This rare watchdog is not all loud like a banshee but more of a quiet, calm, and attentive dog that will listen to your every command, notice everything about you, from your mood to your body language, and then comfort you with its fluffily loyal presence. But that’s not the best part about these dogs with a high prey drive.
These sweet and gentle dogs are not easily excitable or bothered. Hence, whether your house is filled with playful screaming, rambunctious kids, constant commotion, or loud noises, this zen puppy will remain in his buddha mode no matter what happens in the background. Thus, it is perfect for a chaotic household.
9. French Bulldog
This flat-faced frisky puppy is all the rage these days, but rightfully so because it is a cute, petite dog that has an adjusting and adaptable personality without the added fuss and mess.
This lazy and relaxed dog prefers to be by their beloved human’s side at all times, can acclimate to any environment and living situation, is highly affectionate, and has an incredible love for life and adventure.
Not to mention, they are quite fashionable dogs with an added velcro tendency, hence wherever you go, these shadow dogs will follow. Moreover, great for travelling and carrying around, and building this relaxing environment in your home.
These Parisian favorites have award-winning personalities and charming looks (just look at their perky bat ears, full of character, wrinkly bodies, and adorable short legs, and you are sure to fall head over heels in love with them).
This least physically and emotionally demanding dog is an interesting, mysterious dog that will brighten up any home it walks into.
Conclusion
Hey, in the end, let us get in on a secret: these easy-going breeds are the golden pups of the canine world. They come with the lowest upkeep, aren’t too demanding, loud or boisterous in character, have minimal grooming needs, moderate to low energy levels, a constant love for your comfy sofa, and this ridiculously easy to care temperament. Hence, if there was a canine friend that we’d recommend fervently bringing home, it would be these notoriously chill guys.
These dogs will maintain a harmonious atmosphere in your household, keep the loudness of sounds and destruction to a minimum, and be these gentle giants who won’t incessantly nag you for long walks or hikes. These dogs get along great with children and are the most loyal companions, but with an added marshmallow personality.
If you are looking for some more options, check out the Cavalier King Charles spaniel, Saint Bernard, and Great Dane for more restful and calm dog options.
P.S. The only con these dogs with a mellow tone have is their need for a ton of motivation to just get out of bed and go out for exercise each day. Hence, make sure you are focusing on their weakness, like food and attention, to get these couch potatoes out and about.
