If you’re looking for a pet that can relax and lounge around the house with you, there are many breeds of dogs out there that would fit perfectly into your lifestyle.
From big gentle giants to little cuddle buddies or even adorable puppies, there are many low-energy dog breeds that make wonderful pets for those looking for a less active lifestyle.
Let’s check out some of the breeds perfect for cuddles!
Charming Dog Breeds That Prefer Restful Days
1. Basset Hound
This dog breed is the epitome of calmness. Its floppy ears and pitiful expression mean that this dog wants to spend most of its time sleeping rather than running around. According to the American Kennel Club, these hounds are known for their calm demeanor and low energy levels, which make them great companions.
Although they have a moderate amount of playfulness, they are best suited to families with a slower pace. In fact, many experts agree that these small dogs are ideal for individuals who value their sleep and/or lead a quieter lifestyle.
Why They Are Loved:
The art of napping is in their DNA.
Perfect for slow-paced families and/or seniors.
Surprisingly, people-oriented and loving.
Treat-motivated (be careful with treats!).
Comfortable in quiet homes with plenty of cozy nooks.
2. Neapolitan Mastiff
Neapolitan Mastiffs, although large in stature, are one of the lowest activity breeds of dogs. PetMD ranks them as one of the coolest dogs, and the AKC refers to them as “majestic guardians” who are happy to watch over their family members from a comfortable position – not necessarily to run around outside.
Why They Are Loved:
Large size + low energy = perfect home companion.
Lovers of lounging more than walking.
Extremely loyal and protective in a calm manner.
Enjoy short, leisurely walks and extended periods of sitting on the couch.
Perfect for large homes with peaceful daily routines.
Require low maintenance
3. Bulldog
Bulldogs are loved worldwide because of their laid-back nature. Britannica describes them as one of the ultimate low-energy breeds. Bulldogs love spending their days lounging at home, going for short, slow walks, and receiving attention from their owners.
Why They Are Loved:
Does not require strenuous exercise – just short, casual strolls.
Calm, friendly, and easy-going.
Can thrive in both apartments and smaller houses.
Has a naturally goofy and humorous side.
Great with children and families.
4. Pug
Pugs are infamous for being extremely lazy, which can lead to weight gain, and proud of it. Pugs are perfect for families who want a fun-loving, low-maintenance dog.
Pugs love snacking, snoozing, and snuggling equally, but they can also benefit from some mental stimulation that is often found in interactions with more playful dogs.
Why They Are Loved:
Play hard, nap harder!
Loves being inside with their owners.
Quirky and comedic, and guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
Clings to you like Velcro – never far from your side.
Suitable for families and apartment dwellers.
5. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are gentle, affectionate, and calm dogs that thrive in calm environments, making them a perfect little dog for any home. Shih Tzus are known as one of the laziest dog breeds.
They prefer indoor activities to long outings. Their gentle disposition and sweet nature make them experts at restful days.
Why They Are Loved:
Would rather be indoors than outdoors.
Love to be pampered and brushed.
Need minimal exercise – short walks suffice.
Confident, calm, and elegant.
Suitable for families, seniors, and apartment living.
6. Pekingese
The Pekingese is another small breed known for its calm and easygoing nature. It is listed as one of the most “lazy dog breeds,” due to their low-energy level and gentle temperaments. Dogs of this breed love to be loyal lap dogs, despite their independent nature.
Why They Are Loved:
Originally bred as royal lapdogs.
Calm, affectionate, and devoted to their owners.
Enjoys resting for a long time and enjoying leisurely activities.
Peaceful and polite when indoors.
Best for mature households or individuals who prefer a relaxed lifestyle.
7. Havanese
While the Havanese can certainly have a lot of playfulness, they can also serve as wonderful low-energy companions if provided with the proper schedule and routine, enriching your life with human companionship.
According to Purina, the Havanese is listed as a low-maintenance breed, and they are extremely adaptable and very relaxed inside when given the right training.
Why They Are Loved:
Sweet-hearted and people-focused.
Will be happy to spend time near you (and even snuggle) without having to go crazy (run around like a lunatic) to do it.
Great for people living in apartments (or small houses) or with relatively small walk times (even just a few minutes per day).
A good mix of “fun”, but not “overwhelming”.
Perfect for those who want to have a nice, relaxing day at home (not feeling energetic enough to run around outside).
8. Clumber Spaniel
Clumber Spaniels are friendly, low-key, and low-energy, which makes them one of the most lovable lazy breeds out there, but they can exhibit different temperaments. Clumber Spaniels are slow-moving, laid-back dogs. They are one of the quietest, easiest-going breeds as well, showcasing their breed characteristics.
Why They Are Loved:
Sweet, gentle, laid back (they don’t demand much of you).
They really enjoy taking it easy, whether by taking a slow walk or by taking a long nap.
Rarely will you find a Clumber Spaniel getting overly excited about something (they are generally pretty calm).
If your family is looking for a large to medium-sized dog that will keep things calm, then this may be a great option for you.
They are able to easily adapt to whatever type of household and schedule you have.
9. Chow Chow
When well-trained, Chow Chows are naturally calm and low-key, making them suitable for families who may be away for long periods. As such, they prefer slow days, quiet environments, and enjoying some alone time – making them perfect for families who tend to be quieter or have a more introverted life.
Why They Are Loved:
Cool, calm, independent (they are happy to be left alone).
They prefer to live in a quiet, structured environment.
They do not require much physical exercise.
They have a stunning, teddy bear-like coat.
As they are independent animals, they are best suited to families/owners who respect their personal space.
Conclusion
There’s nothing wrong with a dog that doesn’t want to run a marathon – that is a wonderful quality. These dogs are gentle, endearing, and completely loving in their own way. They add warmth and stability to the lives of people who are looking for a little peace and quiet in their world. Regardless of where you live or what you prefer in terms of lifestyle (from busy city to laid-back rural), these dogs fit into either lifestyle perfectly.
By choosing a low-energy dog breed, you’re choosing a life filled with peaceful moments. From early morning relaxation to late afternoon relaxation and everything in between, there is no better way to build a connection with your pet than through a shared experience of calm companionship. Sometimes… that is the exact type of love we all need.
