Some people get a dog as their snuggle buddy, while others adopt a furry friend because they want an exercise companion. The most important factor to consider while choosing a dog is their energy levels. If your dog’s energy level matches yours, you’ll be able to give them proper exercise.
For individuals who do not have an active lifestyle, live in a smaller space, or do not need a working dog, medium energy dogs are a great option. Medium energy dog breeds combine gentle demeanor with moderate energy needs, keeping a balance between exercise and relaxation.
Calm dogs are usually friendly, sociable, and easygoing. They will fill your life with naps, relaxation, and lots of cuddles. From funny and comical pugs to loyal and playful Maltese, several dogs are known for having moderate energy levels.
Have a look at these 7 calm dog breeds with moderate energy.
Calm Dog Breeds with Medium Energy
1. Pug
Many pet parents looking for medium-energy dogs might not consider a Pug as an option due to their mischievous nature. But these quick-witted dogs love people and want to be the center of attention. Pugs are the mellow fellows who love snuggles and are very friendly.
Pugs entertain their family with their playful antics. These lively dogs require moderate exercise such as walks or play sessions in the yard to stay active, explains the American Kennel Club. However, Pugs are flat-faced dogs who cannot tolerate harsh weather.
Pugs were bred to be companions, so their favorite place is right by your side. Pugs are the couch potatoes who like spending much of their day lying on a sofa, making them vulnerable to obesity.
It is important to maintain a balance between diet and exercise to help them stay happy and healthy.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels can be easily recognized by their floppy ears, soulful eyes, and luxurious coat. These small dogs make the best cuddly buddies due to their friendly and calm demeanor. These affectionate and graceful dogs thrive on companionship.
Although Cavaliers were originally bred to be lap dogs, they enjoy daily walks and playing games of fetch. When they are not engaged in play sessions, you will find them curled up on their owner’s lap. Cavaliers are known for keeping a balance between rest and play.
Cavaliers are highly adaptable dogs who do equally well in sedentary as well as active households. These smart dogs are always eager to please, which makes them highly trainable.
Never leave your Cavalier off leash—they retain their hunting instincts and might not come back when called if they have found a scent trail to follow.
3. Basset Hound
The next calm dog breed on our list is the Basset Hound. It is a medium-sized dog with floppy ears and a bright personality. These moderate-energy dogs feel happy and content with moderate daily exercise. They are not very athletic and seem to be woeful, but light up in your presence.
Basset Hounds have a keen sense of smell due to their hunting history. They will enjoy going out on a scent trail before lying down for a leisurely nap. They are known for their loud barks and might not be well suited for apartment dwellers and peace lovers.
They are not as active as some other breeds, but do require moderate exercise for physical and mental stimulation. Puzzle toys and scent games are great options to keep them engaged. Their heavy bodies and short legs are not made for extensive exercise.
4. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are the gentle giants with a calm and sweet temperament. They happily spend hours relaxing at your feet. Newfies are enormous and shaggy dogs who can weigh up to 150 pounds. These laid-back working dogs are outdoorsy and far from being lazy.
Newfies are capable of giving intense love and affection to their owners. They form strong bonds with their owners and get along well with kids. They need at least half an hour of moderate exercise every day to stay healthy.
Newfoundland dogs were bred to work in water. They are avid swimmers and enjoy activities like hiking and long walks. These agile dogs excel at various dog sports such as dock diving, herding, obedience training, and tracking.
5. French Bulldog
One of the most popular dog breeds in the U.S., French Bulldogs are known for their easygoing personalities and cute bat ears. These goofy yet smart fellows always crave attention from their favorite humans. Frenchies have moderate energy levels.
French Bulldogs are content with short walks and play sessions. These curious dogs enjoy activities like obedience, rally, and agility. However, it is also a flat-faced dog, just like Pugs, which makes them vulnerable to breathing difficulties.
Frenchies are popular for their playful nature. With proper socialization, they can become friends with people of all ages, including kids and the elderly. They are prone to spinal injuries, especially if they are obese and not getting enough exercise, explains PetMD.
6. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are happy, calm, and loyal dogs. They are known for their gentle temperament and affectionate nature. They were bred to be the royal companions and make great family pets for apartment dwellers and individuals who live in homes without yards.
These medium-energy fellows require minimal exercise to stay healthy. Engage your Shih Tzu in short daily walks and indoor playtime to satisfy their activity needs. Around 40 minutes of daily exercise is enough to get enough physical and mental stimulation.
Boredom or lack of exercise can lead to destructive behaviors. Their luxurious long coat requires daily brushing using a good quality wire brush. Make a topknot using flexible pins to keep hair from getting into their eyes.
7. Maltese
These charming and versatile toy dogs can be easily characterized by their show-stopping, luxurious coat. Maltese are loyal and friendly pups who are not afraid to show affection by hugging or snuggling in your lap.
Maltese are peaceful, sociable, intelligent, and trusting. They are friendly with kids and other pets, making them a great choice for families with children and multiple pets. These curious fellows enjoy learning new tricks.
According to PDSA, Maltese thrive on human interaction and are sweet-tempered. They are a bit reserved with strangers, but proper socialization at a young age allows them to behave well around unfamiliar faces.
Maltese require occasional but daily exercise for physical and mental stimulation. Daily walks with their pet parents and play sessions indoors are recommended for these alert and fearless canines. These low-shedding hypoallergenic dogs are a great fit for allergy sufferers.
Conclusion
From smoosh-faced pugs to adorable Shih Tzus and fluffy white Maltese, several dog breeds are known for their calm demeanor and moderate exercise needs. These mellow fellows know how to keep a balance between activity and nap time.
If you are a pet lover looking for a medium energy dog breed, one of the chill dogs mentioned in this article may be a great fit for you. Just remember: exercise your dog regularly to help them stay happy and content!
