Have you ever met a dog that seems to have mastered the art of doing absolutely nothing and makes it look charming? While energetic breeds often steal the spotlight, some dogs are happiest when life moves at a slower pace.
These calm, easygoing companions bring peace to homes where relaxation is a daily goal. Known for their gentle temperaments and love of quiet time, these underrated breeds thrive on cuddles, leisurely walks, and cozy afternoons.
Whether you live in a small apartment or simply prefer a more tranquil lifestyle, relaxed dog breeds can be the perfect match. They prove that not every good dog needs to chase, fetch, or race—some are content just being close by.
Let’s explore a few lesser-known breeds that turn laid-back living into an art form, showing that calm doesn’t mean boring; it means blissfully content.
Underrated Dog Breeds Known for Relaxation
1. Whippet
The Whippet is a graceful, medium-sized breed known for its balance of athleticism and serenity. Originally bred for speed and hunting small game, it’s surprisingly quiet and affectionate when off duty. Its sleek body and gentle eyes reveal a dog that loves comfort as much as sprinting.
Whippets are often called “couch sprinters” because they enjoy brief bursts of energy followed by long stretches of lounging. This makes them ideal for people who want a dog that enjoys both daily walks and calm evenings at home.
According to the AKC, they’re gentle with families and typically get along well with other pets. Sensitive by nature, Whippets respond best to soft voices and steady routines rather than harsh corrections.
Their short coat requires minimal grooming, and they adapt easily to indoor life, preferring warmth and cozy blankets over rough terrain or cold weather.
Quiet, loving, and elegant, the Whippet embodies relaxation without laziness—a perfect companion for calm households.
Fun Fact
A Whippet can reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour, yet it spends most of its time curled up, proving that relaxation and speed can coexist.
2. Greyhound
The Greyhound is often mistaken for being high-energy due to its racing past, but in reality, it’s among the calmest and most relaxed dog breeds. Originally bred as a sighthound for hunting and coursing, it now enjoys a more leisurely life as a gentle, affectionate companion.
Despite its speed and power, the Greyhound’s temperament is famously soft. They prefer quiet environments, long naps, and gentle attention from their humans.
Their sleek build and graceful stride make them natural athletes, but they only need moderate exercise to stay happy. A quick daily run followed by hours of rest perfectly suits their personality.
As per Britannica, Greyhounds are polite, clean, and surprisingly adaptable to apartment life. Their low body fat means they love warmth and cozy spaces far more than cold or damp weather.
Easygoing and loyal, they’re a perfect fit for anyone seeking a peaceful yet elegant companion.
Fun Fact
Although Greyhounds are one of the fastest dog breeds, they are often nicknamed “45-mile-per-hour couch potatoes” because of their love for lounging.
3. Clumber Spaniel
The Clumber Spaniel is a large, dignified spaniel known for its laid-back nature and gentle personality. Originally bred in England as a hunting dog, it now enjoys a quiet life as a loyal, affectionate companion.
Unlike more energetic spaniels, the Clumber prefers slow-paced activities like leisurely walks and long naps near its family. Its calm presence makes it a natural fit for relaxed homes and peaceful settings.
The breed’s dense, white coat and soulful expression add to its charm. As per PetMD, regular brushing helps keep it clean and soft, complementing its well-groomed, composed appearance.
Though reserved with strangers, Clumbers are deeply affectionate with loved ones and show their devotion through quiet companionship rather than exuberance.
Intelligent yet easygoing, this breed’s unhurried approach to life makes it one of the most underrated dogs for relaxation and loyalty.
Fun Fact
Clumber Spaniels were favored by British royalty, including Prince Albert and King Edward VII, for their gentle nature and calm, refined demeanor.
4. Glen of Imaal Terrier
The Glen of Imaal Terrier is an Irish breed with a big heart and a calm, loyal nature. Originally bred as a working terrier in the remote Glen of Imaal valley, it was used to hunt vermin and even turn kitchen spits, a testament to its quiet endurance.
Unlike many terriers, the Glen isn’t overly vocal or restless. It enjoys peaceful moments with family and is known for its sturdy, unhurried demeanor.
Its compact build, rough coat, and steady energy make it adaptable to both city and countryside living. While it enjoys moderate exercise, it’s happiest lounging indoors after a good walk.
This breed’s confident yet gentle nature makes it an ideal companion for families who appreciate low-drama, good-natured dogs. Consistent training and affection bring out its best qualities.
Patient, strong, and even-tempered, the Glen is the definition of calm reliability in canine form.
Fun Fact
Historically, Glen of Imaal Terriers were trained to walk on treadmills that turned roasting spits—earning them the nickname “turnspit dogs.”
5. Tibetan Spaniel
The Tibetan Spaniel is a small, confident dog with a serene personality and a strong sense of loyalty. Originating in the mountains of Tibet, it once served as a monastery companion, sitting atop walls to watch over its surroundings. Its calm alertness and affectionate nature make it an ideal housemate for those who enjoy peaceful companionship.
Though lively when playing, the Tibetan Spaniel is happiest lounging beside its family or perched by a sunny window. It has an independent streak but rarely strays far from the people it loves most.
With a soft, medium-length coat and expressive eyes, this breed radiates warmth and intelligence. Regular brushing keeps its coat healthy, while gentle exercise helps maintain its easygoing balance.
Tibetan Spaniels form deep bonds with their owners and are known for their quiet devotion rather than constant activity. Their adaptability suits both apartments and quiet suburban homes.
Small but self-assured, they offer affection wrapped in calm confidence—true masters of relaxed living.
Fun Fact
Ancient monks believed Tibetan Spaniels brought good fortune to monasteries, and they were often gifted between temples as signs of friendship.
6. Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto Romagnolo, an Italian breed known as the “truffle dog,” combines intelligence with a relaxed, affectionate temperament. Originally bred to retrieve waterfowl and later to hunt truffles, it has evolved into a calm, adaptable companion suited to modern homes.
Compact and curly-coated, the Lagotto’s dense, wool-like fur is water-resistant and low-shedding. Its balanced nature makes it equally happy exploring outdoors or curling up indoors after a gentle walk.
Though highly trainable and alert, it isn’t demanding. The Lagotto thrives on mental stimulation and steady routines, responding beautifully to calm leadership and consistent affection.
Its even disposition and quiet loyalty make it a wonderful fit for families seeking a gentle yet intelligent breed. While playful at heart, it rarely becomes hyperactive or restless.
With its kind eyes and patient nature, the Lagotto Romagnolo brings the perfect blend of curiosity, comfort, and calm to everyday life.
Fun Fact
Lagotto Romagnolos are the world’s only dogs bred specifically for truffle hunting—a skill they perform with remarkable precision and focus.
7. Bergamasco Sheepdog
The Bergamasco Sheepdog is an ancient Italian herding breed recognized instantly by its unique felted coat of naturally forming mats. Originally bred in the Italian Alps to guard and herd sheep, it is patient, wise, and remarkably composed.
Despite its rustic appearance, the Bergamasco has a gentle heart and thrives on human companionship. It’s affectionate without being clingy, preferring quiet closeness and trust built over time.
Its dense, triple-layered coat provides insulation from both heat and cold, symbolizing its adaptability and endurance. This coat requires surprisingly little maintenance once mature, reflecting the breed’s practical mountain origins.
Calm, observant, and intuitive, the Bergamasco is deeply attuned to its surroundings. It enjoys thoughtful activity and rewards patient owners with unwavering loyalty and calm energy.
Often described as both independent and nurturing, it’s a serene guardian who brings balance to busy homes and peaceful pastures alike.
Fun Fact
The Bergamasco’s unique coat forms naturally into mats called “flocks,” providing protection from weather and predators—a centuries-old design that needs minimal grooming.
FAQs
Are underrated, calm dogs easier to care for than popular ones?
Yes, many calm dog breeds tend to be lower-maintenance and easier to manage at home. They adapt well to relaxed households and form strong bonds without needing constant activity or attention.
Do relaxed dog breeds still enjoy playtime, or do they prefer naps?
They love both! While these pups enjoy a good snooze on the sofa, most still appreciate a daily leash walk or gentle playtime that suits their chill personality.
Are relaxed dogs better for stress relief and emotional health?
Absolutely. Their gentle demeanor and patient nature make them wonderful therapy dogs. Spending time with such well-mannered companions helps reduce stress and brings comfort to both adults and kids.
Conclusion
Calm dog breeds are a reminder that not every loyal companion needs endless activity to bring joy. These reliable, low-maintenance pups often develop strong bonds with their families, showing affection through quiet presence and patience.
Whether they’re rescue dogs, gentle giants, or smaller breeds that adore their sofa naps, they bring ease and happiness to every house. Many large dogs like Bernese Mountain Dogs, Saint Bernards, and Great Pyrenees excel in therapy work, while others, such as Great Danes, Irish Wolfhounds, Basset Hounds, Pugs, and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, are adored for their chill charm.
According to the American Kennel Club, these friendly animals prove that when it comes to companionship, calm hearts often make the most dependable friends among all other dogs and animals.
