When it comes to choosing a companion with a mellow vibe, laid-back dog breeds make the perfect match for calm-loving pet parents. These dogs are easygoing, gentle, and love lounging more than racing. Whether you’re in a cozy apartment or a big family home, these lovable dogs offer comfort, companionship, and calm.
Did you know some of the most famous gentle giants and lap dogs are actually low-energy dog breeds? From shaggy charmers to fluffy cuddle bugs, they’re great with kids, other pets, and are absolute couch potatoes. Let’s meet some of these easy-breezy pups that know how to take life slow and snuggly.
Laid-Back Dog Breeds
1. Saint Bernard
Known for their heroic Alpine rescues, Saint Bernards are sweet-natured giants that thrive on human companionship. Despite their massive size, they have a calm temperament and are famously gentle with children. Their puppyhood is a bit clumsy but full of soulful eyes and slobbery kisses.
These gentle giants have a thick, fluffy coat that needs regular grooming, especially during shedding seasons. They’re surprisingly low energy and content with a couple of daily walks and indoor play. Their affectionate personality makes them excellent therapy dogs and beloved family members.
According to the AKC, they’re not ideal for hot climates and need a cool space to stay comfortable. Their large size can bring joint issues later in life, so weight management is key. Socialization from an early age helps them stay calm and well-mannered around other pets and people.
Saint Bernards are peaceful pals who adore being near their humans. Despite their history of mountain work, they’re now more likely to be found napping than navigating snowstorms. Add one to your family, and prepare for a whole lot of love.
Fun Fact
Saint Bernards once carried barrels of brandy around their necks to rescue stranded travelers—talk about a legendary lounge buddy!
2. Tibetan Spaniel
Tibetan Spaniels may be small dogs, but they have huge hearts and calm personalities. Originally bred by monks for companionship, these clever pups love lounging on high perches, observing the world with their soulful eyes. They form strong bonds with their families and have a calm demeanor, ideal for quiet homes.
Their silky, medium-length coat needs regular grooming to stay tangle-free, and they come in a wide range of colors. A daily walk and some mental stimulation keep them happy without needing high-energy play. They’re smart, a little independent, and can be sensitive to harsh training methods.
Early socialization helps them warm up to other dogs and strangers, though they’re naturally loyal to their humans. They tend to bark at unfamiliar sounds, making them surprisingly alert watchdogs. Despite this, they thrive best in homes where peace and routine are part of the vibe.
They love curling up in laps and soaking up affection, making them excellent pets for calm dog lovers. Don’t expect endless games—these little charmers are more about cozy time than cardio.
Fun Fact
Tibetan Spaniels were considered sacred in monasteries and were even believed to bring good fortune!
3. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a cheerful puffball with a personality that’s as fluffy as its coat. These lovable dogs are low energy and famously adaptable, fitting in with families, singles, and seniors alike. They thrive on human company and are happiest snuggled up beside their favorite people.
With their hypoallergenic curls and bright eyes, Bichons need regular grooming to avoid matting, but they don’t shed much. They love short daily walks and bursts of play but quickly settle down, making them ideal for apartment living. Their calm temperament makes them great therapy dogs and companions.
Social, sweet, and eager to please, they respond well to training and love being the center of attention. PetMD states that Bichons enjoy making friends with other pets and children, especially with early socialization. Their playful nature is balanced by a laid-back vibe that pet parents adore.
Despite their elegant looks, Bichons aren’t divas—they’re goofballs with gentle hearts. They do best with structure, gentle discipline, and lots of love. If you want a calm dog who still brings a little sparkle, this breed is a winner.
Fun Fact
The Bichon Frise once traveled the world with circus troupes—no wonder they’re such charming little performers!
4. Boerboel
The Boerboel is a powerful yet surprisingly gentle guardian from South Africa. Though their size can be intimidating, they have a calm, confident demeanor that makes them excellent companions for experienced pet parents. These dogs are deeply loyal and thrive on human companionship.
Their short coat is low-maintenance and comes in warm tones like fawn, red, or brindle. Despite their strong build, Boerboels are relatively low energy when their exercise needs are met. A daily walk and some mental stimulation keep them happy and relaxed.
They benefit from early socialization and consistent training to ensure their protective instincts stay balanced. With proper guidance, they’re good with other pets and affectionate with family. They form strong bonds and are happiest when involved in home life.
Boerboels tend to be calm dogs around the house and love lounging after light activity. They need space to move, so they’re better suited to larger homes than tiny apartments. Their gentle temperament can shine when their physical and emotional needs are met.
Fun Fact
Boerboels were bred to guard remote farms in South Africa—think of them as the original gentle giants with muscles!
5. Bergamasco Sheepdog
The Bergamasco Sheepdog is a visual standout, known for its unique, matted coat that forms naturally into felt-like flocks. Despite their shaggy looks, these dogs are calm, observant, and incredibly intelligent, originally bred to herd sheep in the Italian Alps.
Their coat requires surprisingly low maintenance—no brushing needed, just the occasional cleaning. They do well with regular walks and thrive in a stable environment with meaningful interaction. This low-energy dog doesn’t need intense physical activity but does enjoy purpose-driven tasks.
They have a calm temperament and tend to be quiet, making them great for families seeking a serene companion. With early socialization, Bergamascos are affectionate with children and accepting of other pets. Their patience and independence are part of their ancient working dog lineage.
They form strong bonds and are very in tune with their owners’ routines. These calm dog breeds are perfect for those who want a unique, gentle companion that doesn’t demand the spotlight but offers unwavering loyalty.
Fun Fact
Bergamasco coats are made of three different hair types, creating mats that once protected them from harsh mountain weather!
6. Irish Wolfhound
Don’t let their towering height fool you—Irish Wolfhounds are the definition of gentle giants. These calm, affectionate dogs were once fierce hunting companions, but today, they’re known for their sweet temperament and mellow presence. As puppies, they grow fast and need space, but their hearts are pure marshmallow.
With a wiry coat in earthy tones, they need regular brushing to keep things tidy. Although they’re massive, they have surprisingly low energy and love relaxing with their humans after a nice daily walk. They’re not racing dogs anymore—they’re couch potatoes at heart.
Early socialization helps them build confidence, especially around small dogs and other pets. Their calm demeanor makes them excellent companions in quiet homes, and they tend to be polite rather than playful. They’re deeply loyal and gentle with children.
Purina states that Irish Wolfhounds are happiest in peaceful environments with room to stretch. Though they have shorter lifespans, their years are filled with calm companionship and deep love. They’re the perfect balance of majestic and mellow.
Fun Fact
Irish Wolfhounds were once gifted to royalty, and could take down wolves and even lions in ancient legends!
7. Pekingese
The Pekingese might be royalty in disguise, with a lion-like mane and a personality to match. These lap dogs were pampered by Chinese emperors and still carry themselves with calm confidence. They’re affectionate, independent, and absolutely adore a quiet home life.
They have a long, luxurious double coat that requires regular grooming and bathing to stay fabulous. Though small, they’re not high energy—short walks and cuddles are their favorite activities. Their low energy makes them one of the top lazy dog breeds for apartment living.
Socialization is key early on, as they can be a bit aloof with strangers and other pets. But once bonded, they’re loyal to their humans with a fierce, loving devotion. Their calm temperament and charm make them ideal companions for gentle households.
These lovable dogs enjoy lounging more than learning tricks—but don’t underestimate their clever minds. They’re opinionated, entertaining, and always happy to rule your lap from their tiny throne.
Fun Fact
Pekingese were once carried in the sleeves of Chinese nobility—talk about the original portable pup!
8. Clumber Spaniel
Clumber Spaniels are the mellow aristocrats of the spaniel world, with their heavy build, droopy eyes, and sweet, calm demeanor. Originally bred for hunting, they now prefer slow strolls and long naps, making them one of the best lazy dog breeds for relaxed pet owners.
Their dense, white coat with lemon or orange markings needs regular grooming to manage shedding. A daily walk and light play are all they need to stay happy. Despite their low energy, they benefit from mental stimulation to keep their clever minds engaged.
They adore human companionship and form strong bonds with their families, including kids and other pets. Clumbers are known for their gentle temperament and quiet loyalty. Early socialization helps them stay confident and friendly without overwhelming their laid-back personality.
These calm dogs love routine and are happiest in a peaceful home where they can lounge freely. They may be slow movers, but they’re fast to win hearts. With their sweet, affectionate nature, they’re a dream for those who want a chill, lovable dog.
Fun Fact
Clumber Spaniels were a favorite of British royalty, including Prince Albert and King Edward VII!
9. Basset Hound
With their long ears and soulful gaze, Basset Hounds are iconic for their calm, loving personality. Originally bred for tracking, these gentle dogs are now more interested in couch cuddles than chasing scents. Their low energy and even lower legs make them ideal for quiet lifestyles.
Their short coat is easy to maintain, but those signature ears need regular cleaning. Basset Hounds enjoy leisurely daily walks and lots of relaxation time. Though slow and steady, they do need a bit of exercise to avoid weight gain.
Bassets are great family dogs who get along well with children, other pets, and even cats. Early socialization and patience in training go a long way due to their independent streak. They’re affectionate, gentle, and surprisingly sensitive to their owners’ moods.
These lovable dogs thrive in homes where they can enjoy plenty of attention and naps. Their calm demeanor and unmistakable charm make them favorites among lazy dog lovers everywhere.
Fun Fact
A group of Basset Hounds is called a “litter,” but they’ve also starred in ads, cartoons, and even presidential households!
Conclusion
From the giant Saint Bernard to the fluffy Bichon Frise, laid-back dog breeds come in all shapes and sizes—but they all share a gentle demeanor that makes them irresistible companions. Whether you’re seeking a low-energy cuddle buddy or a calm, steady friend for your kids, these good family dogs are more about love than leaps.
Understanding a dog’s behavior and energy levels is key to choosing the right match. According to the American Kennel Club, breeds like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Bernese Mountain Dog, and even the laid-back French Bulldogs and Great Danes have earned their spots as top choices for affectionate, calm companionship. They may not run marathons, but they’ll run straight into your heart.
If you love dogs with big personalities and peaceful vibes, don’t overlook breeds like the dignified Chow Chow or the gentle giants you’ve just met. Whether you’re in a quiet apartment or a bustling family home, there’s a mellow pup out there who’s ready to lounge, love, and be your loyal best friend.
