Not every dog is bursting with energy or ready for a non-stop adventure. Some dogs have a naturally calm and easygoing temperament that makes them perfect companions for those who prefer a slower pace of life.
Whether you live in a cozy apartment, work from home, or simply enjoy peaceful moments, low-energy dogs fit right into lifestyles that don’t revolve around constant activity.
Interestingly, research shows that having a calm dog around can actually help reduce stress and lower blood pressure, making them wonderful emotional support companions.
If you’re looking for a gentle, laid-back furry friend who’s happy to chill and bring a sense of tranquility to your home, keep reading. We’re about to explore some of the best dog breeds known for their easygoing temperaments and low energy levels—perfect for anyone who values calm over chaos.
Key Takeaways
- Meet calm companions like Basset Hounds, Greyhounds, and Saint Bernards, perfect for easygoing lifestyles.
- Discover why Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Maltese, and Shih Tzus are great for cuddling and low-energy homes.
- Learn how Great Danes, Saint Bernards, and Greyhounds blend gentle nature with relaxed living.
- Find out which breeds bring peace, loyalty, and calm to any home.
Dog Breeds with Easygoing Temperaments and Low Energy
1. Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is well-known for its easygoing temperament and relaxed nature. With their droopy ears and soulful eyes, these dogs are the picture of calm.
Though they were originally bred for hunting and scent tracking, modern Bassets prefer a slower pace. They enjoy lounging around and taking life easy, making them a great choice for anyone looking for a low-energy dog.
Low Energy, With a Touch of Stubbornness
While Bassets aren’t hyperactive, they do have a stubborn streak, as mentioned by Orvis. Training can feel like herding cats—sometimes frustrating but often amusing. They might catch an irresistible scent on walks and want to follow it, but most of the time, they stay mellow and low-key.
Why Basset Hounds Make Great Calm Companions
- Prefer sniff-filled, leisurely walks over vigorous exercise
- Need moderate activity to stay healthy, but love their nap time
- Known for their deep bark and bay, so not the quietest breed
- Loyal and affectionate with families, seniors, and singles
- Adaptable to new environments and happy with a calm lifestyle
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a loving and adaptable breed known for its calm and easygoing nature.
With a history stretching back over 600 years as a cherished companion of British royalty, this dog is still happiest curled up on a lap. They thrive on human attention and easily adapt to various living situations, from cozy apartments to spacious homes.
Calm but Playful Companions
While Cavaliers have bursts of energy and enjoy short play sessions, they are mostly relaxed dogs. They form strong bonds with their families and enjoy gentle walks and light indoor play.
This balance of activity and calm makes them a great choice for people who want a low-maintenance but affectionate friend.
Why Cavaliers Make Great Easygoing Pets
- Friendly and good with kids, seniors, and other pets
- Adapt well to apartment living and small spaces
- Enjoy moderate exercise like daily walks and playtime
- Known for their silky coats and gentle temperaments
- Easy to train and eager to please their owners
3. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a charming and friendly breed known for its affectionate and calm nature. As the American Kennel Club puts it, their idea of fun is “sitting in your lap, acting adorable.”
These lap dogs were bred specifically to be companions, and they haven’t forgotten that. They love being close to their humans and make perfect pets for those who enjoy a quiet, relaxed lifestyle.
Low-Energy and Lovable
Shih Tzus don’t need much exercise to stay happy. A few short walks and some indoor playtime are usually enough for these easygoing dogs.
They’re great for apartment living and do well with families, singles, and seniors. While they love attention, training can require patience because they tend to be clever and sometimes stubborn.
What Makes Shih Tzus Great Pets
- Hypoallergenic coat, good for allergy sufferers
- Enjoy cuddling and human interaction
- Minimal exercise needs—require only short walks and light play
- Friendly with kids and other pets
- Perfect for those who work from home or prefer calm companions
4. Greyhound
The Greyhound is known as the fastest dog breed in the world, with a history dating back thousands of years. Originally bred for speed and hunting, using their keen eyesight, these dogs can run at speeds of up to 45 miles per hour, according to Britannica.
Despite their racing background and muscular build, Greyhounds are surprisingly calm and gentle at home. They have earned a reputation as “couch potatoes” because they love to lounge and relax indoors.
Calm Temperament with a Need to Run
While Greyhounds are easygoing and quiet dogs, they do require regular exercise to stay healthy. Daily walks or a short run help them blow off steam, but they are not overly energetic throughout the day.
Retired racing Greyhounds especially enjoy a peaceful, laid-back lifestyle and make good family dogs for those who want a calm dog with a gentle demeanor.
Why Greyhounds Make Great Easygoing Pets
- Even-tempered dogs with a quiet nature
- Gentle and friendly around people
- Enjoy lounging and relaxing indoors
- Need moderate exercise, like daily walks or short runs
- Perfect for those who want a calm but athletic companion
5. Great Dane
Great Danes are impressive dogs known for their calm and sweet temperament. Despite their imposing size, they are gentle and affectionate, making them excellent family pets. These dogs aren’t usually aggressive unless they feel their home or family is threatened.
Early socialization and proper training are important, especially when they are puppies, to ensure they grow up well-mannered and comfortable around children.
Calm and Low-Energy, But Still Active
Great Danes don’t need as much exercise as some other large breeds. They are happy with moderate activity, like a couple of daily walks and plenty of rest indoors.
Their calm demeanor makes exercise time easy and enjoyable. While they need space to live comfortably, they fit well into homes where a relaxed lifestyle is preferred.
Why Great Danes Make Wonderful Companions
- Known as “gentle giants” with friendly, loyal personalities
- Require moderate exercise—walks and indoor play suffice
- Calm around people and other dogs, making social encounters smooth
- Need early training and proper socialization to develop good manners
- Perfect for families who have space and want a loving, laid-back dog
6. Maltese
The Maltese is a charming and gentle breed with a long history as a beloved companion. Named after the Mediterranean island of Malta, these affectionate dogs have been adored for centuries by aristocrats and families alike.
Known for their silky white coats and bright eyes, Maltese dogs love being close to their humans and make excellent lapdogs.
Calm, Affectionate, and Low-Energy
Though they have a lively spirit, Maltese dogs are generally calm and easygoing. They enjoy moderate play and short daily walks but are happiest relaxing indoors with their favorite people.
Their affectionate nature means they thrive on companionship and gentle care, making them great for anyone seeking a loyal, low-maintenance pet.
Why Maltese Dogs Are Ideal Calm Companions
- Hypoallergenic coat, great for allergy sufferers
- Require only light daily exercise and play
- Friendly and loving with family members
- Have a gentle temperament suited for quiet homes
- Perfect for people who want an elegant, easygoing dog
7. Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard is a true gentle giant with a calm and loving nature. Originally bred by monks in the Alps to rescue travelers lost in the mountains, these large dogs have a strong history of service and loyalty.
Known for their watchful and friendly temperament, Saint Bernards are excellent companions who love people, especially children (this is why they are called nanny dogs!).
Calm Temperament with a Strong Sense of Duty
Despite their large size, Saint Bernards are one of the calmest dog breeds around. They have a laid-back demeanor and do not require intense exercise, making them ideal for families seeking a relaxed yet protective pet.
Early firm training is important to help them learn good manners and ensure safe interactions, particularly with kids.
Why Saint Bernards Make Perfect Calm Companions
- Known as gentle giants with affectionate, patient personalities
- Originally bred for mountain rescue work, showcasing their loyal nature
- Enjoy moderate exercise and plenty of rest
- Great with children and other family members
- Require firm training for a well-mannered adult dog
Conclusion
Choosing the right calm dog can bring a sense of ease and comfort into your daily life. While certain breeds are naturally more relaxed, individual temperament still matters.
The American Kennel Club recognizes many different breeds that thrive as companion animals, and when properly socialized, these lovable dogs can become well-adjusted members of any household.
Particular dogs enjoy nothing more than quiet moments, while others still appreciate light play, short outings, or simple mental stimulation without needing high-energy routines.
Whether you prefer small dogs that stay gentle around small animals or larger working dogs that remain steady and calm, there are plenty of easy dogs that suit a range of homes.
Many owners find that chill dogs offer support similar to therapy dogs without demanding active lifestyles or long walks. With the right match, these peaceful pups blend seamlessly into your routine and bring steady comfort to everyday life.
Looking for more options? You can also check out the English Cocker Spaniel, Chow Chow, Irish Wolfhound, and English Bulldog.
