Tired of four-legged hurricanes zooming around your home? You’re not alone. While many people adore playful pups, others crave a calmer kind of companionship — one that feels like a deep breath after a long day.
In fact, according to the Human Animal Bond Research Institute, nearly 74% of pet owners say their pets help reduce stress and improve mental well-being, but that peace can be hard to find with a hyperactive dog.
If you’re someone who values stillness, soft eyes, and a dog that prefers naps over nonstop fetch, this list is just for you. These nine dog breeds are calm, composed, and everything serene — perfect for homes that run on peace instead of chaos.
Calm and Collected Dog Breed
1. Basset Hound
With ears that nearly touch the ground and a face full of wisdom, Basset Hounds carry a naturally calm temperament that’s hard to ignore. They don’t get riled up easily and tend to stroll through life rather than sprint. Their slow-motion vibe makes them a favorite among calm dog breeds. You’ll rarely see them stressed — they simply don’t have the time for drama.
While they can be playful in short bursts, these pups are professional loungers. They’re most in their element when they’re curled up on the couch or sunbathing in the backyard. Daily walks are appreciated, but don’t expect marathon-level zoomies. Energy-wise, they’re a dream come true for low-key households.
Training a Basset Hound can be a mix of charm and challenge, thanks to their independent streak. They’re intelligent but like doing things on their own terms. With consistency and treats, they’ll respond — just not always at lightning speed. Managing them is easier when you respect their own personality.
They’re incredibly adaptable and can live comfortably in apartments or houses alike. Big yards are nice, but definitely not a requirement for their happiness. City noises don’t seem to bother them much either. As long as they’re near their humans, they’re content.
Basset Hounds usually get along well with children and other dogs, making them a reliable family pick, as per the AKC. Their patience and gentle nature make them unlikely to snap or overreact. They don’t mind sharing attention and are rarely territorial. Basically, they’re mellow roommates in every sense.
2. Irish Wolfhound
Don’t let the towering size fool you—Irish Wolfhounds are basically gentle giants wrapped in fur. They carry a soft, steady presence that instantly calms the room. With a famously gentle temperament, they’re the kind of dogs that melt tension just by existing. Drama? Not their thing—they’re far too regal for that.
These lanky sweethearts enjoy a good gallop once in a while, but the rest of the day? Absolute loaf mode. As adults, their zoomies turn into slow-motion prances followed by long naps. After those wild puppy years, they quickly transform into couch royalty. You’ll often find them snoozing in a sunlit corner like it’s their job.
Teaching them is more about patience than persuasion—they understand things quickly but need a reason to care. They thrive when given affection, gentle consistency, and a bit of mental stimulation to keep things interesting. Keep it kind and low-pressure, and you’ll have a buddy who actually listens, most of the time.
They do best in homes that give them space to stretch those long legs, especially a backyard with room to stroll. That said, a quiet home suits them even more than a massive mansion. Apartment life might feel a little cramped, but give them peace and soft rugs, and they’ll settle in fine.
Despite their size, they’re surprisingly tender with small children and often tiptoe around like they know their own strength. Many live peacefully with other pets, too—no drama, no fuss. Just gentle tail wags and a love for calm company. They’re the definition of big dog, bigger heart.
3. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs may look like tiny, grumpy gremlins, but behind those bat ears is a calm, loyal heart that just wants snacks and snuggles. These pups have their own personality and it’s usually chilled, goofy, and all about soaking in the good vibes. No chaos, no overthinking—just soft snores and happy sighs.
You won’t catch them in a marathon, but they do love a silly little zoomie before dramatically flopping over. Daily walks are enough for their compact bodies, and even that can feel negotiable. They’re champions at conserving energy, especially if napping on your lap is an option. Too much exercise? Not their thing.
They’re clever in that “I-heard-you-but-I’m-ignoring-you-politely” way. Training a Frenchie is part charm, part negotiation. They tend to do better with consistency and clear boundaries, plus lots of praise. Add a treat, and you’ve got a four-legged intern who’s ready to maybe follow instructions.
Tiny city apartments? Frenchies practically invented apartment living. They don’t need a lot of space—they just need their humans nearby, as mentioned in Britannica. Whether it’s a cozy studio or a swanky loft, they’re happiest spending time where the people are. As long as the AC works, they’ll vibe.
These little clowns usually adore kids and tend to get along well with other animals, especially if introduced early. They’re small in size but huge on affection. Honestly, once they claim your couch, your lap, and your heart, there’s no going back.
4. Pekingese
The Pekingese might seem like a small fluff ball of independence, but they have an affectionate side that melts hearts. Their calm demeanor makes them the perfect companions for cozy evenings and quiet moments. With their cuddles and regal air, they enjoy being pampered like royalty, and they’ll let you know when they need attention.
These dogs are experts at lounging. While the occasional burst of zoomies might happen, they’re more likely to be spotted napping in a comfy corner, looking as majestic as ever. Their energy level is low, making them perfect for people who prefer slow walks and chewing toys over long runs in the park.
Training the Pekingese can be a bit of a royal challenge—they’re smart but not always eager to please due to their independent personality. This breed tends to do things on their own time, especially when they’re young. Patience is key; a Pekingese will come around when it suits them, but expect a little stubbornness along the way, as PDSA stated.
They’re best suited for apartment living, where they can keep an eye on their surroundings without getting too stressed out. Whether it’s a cozy urban apartment or a small suburban home, they thrive in a quiet space. Having a yard isn’t necessary for these pups, but lots of love and affectionate care is a must.
While they’re not the most outgoing with other pets, the Pekingese usually get along just fine with other friends if properly introduced. They do well with gentle children but may prefer quieter environments where they can rule the roost. Once they’ve chosen their family, there’s no turning back—they’ve called the shots.
5. Boerboel
The Boerboel is a big dog with an even bigger heart, known for their calm and confident personality. They have a strong, protective instinct but are incredibly loyal to their family. This breed tends to worry about their loved ones and is always on alert, ready to ensure everyone is safe.
Though they’re capable of short bursts of play, they’re typically more about relaxation than racing around. The Boerboel’s energy level is moderate; they can easily spend their time lounging at home without needing constant action. A few rounds of fetch can make them happy, but lounging on the couch is just as appealing.
Trainability with the Boerboel is a bit of a two-way street. While they’re highly intelligent, they often prefer to sit back and decide if a command is worth following. Their independent mindset means they might not always be eager to please, but once they’re on board, they learn quickly.
A big yard is essential for these gentle giants to stretch their legs. They thrive in homes where they have space to roam and explore, and they’re not built for apartment life. Their lifestyle calls for a family with a bit of room, whether in the suburbs or on a larger property.
The Boerboel does well with children and is often quite gentle around little ones. They tend to bond deeply with their family and do best in a calm, structured environment. However, they may be selective with other pets, preferring to have control over their world and interactions.
6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is known for their sweet, affectionate nature, making them a beloved companion for anyone seeking a calm dog. Their easygoing personality and laid-back attitude help them fit in comfortably with any family. They genuinely enjoy being around their humans, offering unconditional love and loyalty.
While these little dogs are generally energetic, they can also be quite content lounging around the house. Their energy levels are balanced, and they don’t require intense activity. However, they do enjoy walks and some playtime, especially when it’s in a relaxed setting that doesn’t demand too much effort.
In terms of trainability, Cavaliers are relatively easy to manage, as they’re quick learners and enjoy positive reinforcement. Their intelligence allows them to pick up commands quickly, but they need consistent training. These dogs care about their humans, so teaching them new tricks is often a matter of time and patience.
Though they’re small in size, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel adapts well to apartment living. Their friendly, calm demeanor makes them a great fit for city life, as they don’t require acres of space. They’re perfectly happy in a cozy environment where they can curl up next to their owner and enjoy a quiet day.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are excellent with children and other pets, making them ideal for family life. Their gentle nature and affection mean they thrive in households with other breeds, cats, or even small animals. They bring joy to every home with their ability to bond with everyone around them.
7. English Bulldog
English Bulldogs are the epitome of calm dog breeds, with their relaxed and laid-back demeanor. Their laid-back temperament makes them incredibly easy to live with, and they tend to be both affectionate and dignified. Despite their tough appearance, they’re known for being loving and loyal to their family.
When it comes to energy levels, Bulldogs are all about the chill vibe. They definitely prefer lounging over zooming around, making them ideal companions for someone who enjoys a quiet, easygoing lifestyle. A short walk or some light playtime is usually enough to satisfy their needs.
Though not the most energetic breed, Bulldogs are still highly trainable and quite intelligent. With the right amount of patience and consistency, they can learn commands quickly, even if they can be a bit stubborn at times. Their puppy-like nature keeps them playful, but they’re generally laid back about training.
The English Bulldog thrives in a relaxed living environment, which makes them great for apartment living. They’re not high-energy dogs, so they don’t need a huge yard to roam around. A cozy apartment or a small house is ideal, as long as they have a comfy spot to rest and relax.
Bulldogs are typically great with kids and other pets. Their calm demeanor and affectionate personality allow them to bond easily with children and fellow pets. Whether it’s other breeds, cats, or small animals, Bulldogs are known for their gentle and patient nature, making them wonderful family companions.
8. Whippet
Whippets are calm dog breeds with a gentle, affectionate temperament. They tend to be relaxed and easygoing, making them great companions for people looking for a dog that enjoys both playtime and quiet moments. Their independent streak is balanced by their loving nature, which makes them an excellent choice for many.
While Whippets are capable of intense bursts of speed, they generally prefer a more laid-back lifestyle. They enjoy lounging and can often be found napping after a quick sprint. Their low-maintenance energy levels make them ideal for people who appreciate a dog that enjoys both activity and relaxation.
According to WebMD, Whippets are highly intelligent and quite trainable. They respond well to positive reinforcement and can pick up new commands quickly. Their willingness to please makes them easy to manage, though they can be a bit stubborn at times, especially if they’re not motivated by treats or praise.
This breed thrives in both apartments and homes with yards, provided they get regular exercise. A medium-sized yard is ideal for a Whippet to stretch its legs, but they can adapt well to apartment living if given regular walks. They don’t need too much space, but they do enjoy the occasional sprint.
Whippets are generally good with kids and other pets, making them wonderful family dogs. They are gentle and affectionate, and they get along well with other dogs and animals. Their calm and collected nature means they’re usually comfortable in multi-pet households and can adapt to a variety of living situations.
9. Bolognese
The Bolognese is known for its calm and affectionate personality. This small, charming breed is loyal and enjoys spending time with its family. Their gentle nature makes them an excellent companion for those looking for a laid-back, loving dog that thrives on attention and affection.
Despite their small size, Bolognese dogs are quite active in short bursts. They enjoy playing, but they’re just as content curling up on the couch. They aren’t as energetic as some larger breeds, which makes them perfect for those who appreciate a more relaxed lifestyle.
Bolognese are intelligent dogs, and they’re eager to learn. They do well with consistent training and respond positively to rewards. Their natural love for companionship makes them eager to please, though they can sometimes be a little stubborn when they’re not fully engaged.
This breed thrives in apartments or homes with small yards. Their compact size and moderate exercise needs make them great for people who live in cities or places with limited outdoor space. They do best in environments where they’re close to their owners and get plenty of attention.
Bolognese dogs are wonderful with children and other pets. They’re gentle and affectionate, and their small size makes them a good match for families with little ones. Their friendly nature also extends to other pets, making them great companions in multi-pet households.
Conclusion
Choosing the right breed for you doesn’t have to be complicated. Many amazing pups are waiting for their forever homes at local animal shelters, and adopting is a rewarding experience. Consider breeds like Great Danes or Bernese Mountain Dogs if you’re looking for a loving giant or a calm, affectionate companion.
Great therapy dogs are often the ones with the gentlest temperaments and a calm nature, making them ideal for providing emotional support. Whether it’s a high-energy breed like racing dogs or a laid-back companion, every dog can bring joy to your life.
When you’re ready for a pup, consider adopting from a rescue. There are so many pups in need of a loving home, and they could be the perfect match for your family. Don’t forget that every dog is unique, whether it’s a calm dog breed or a more energetic one.
Whether you prefer to adopt from a shelter or find a specific breed like Great Danes or Bernese Mountain Dogs, there’s always a dog waiting for you. These dogs make great companions and are sure to add joy to your daily life. Rescue dogs, especially can be some of the most loving, loyal companions you’ll find.
From rescue pups to purebred companions, the choice is yours. With so many options, you’re sure to find a dog that fits your home, your heart, and your lifestyle perfectly.
