If you’re dreaming of a dog that would rather curl up on the couch than charge around the backyard, you’re in the right place. While some dog breeds are full of zoomies and all that energy, others were practically born for nap time. Do you know that adult dogs spend around 12–14 hours a day sleeping? And some breeds clock even more sleep, snoozing through thunderstorms, doorbells, and even your neighbor’s yappy cat.
Whether you’re looking for a lap dog who’ll happily sleep a lot beside you all day long, or a gentle giant who prefers lounging over lunging, some dog breeds can sleep through anything. These chill pups aren’t lazy—they just appreciate a good, long nap, a comfy bed, and the kind of calm lifestyle that lets them drift off at a moment’s notice.
Let’s take a look at the top dog breeds that can sleep through anything—the ultimate couch companions who are as cuddly as they are content to doze the hours away.
Dog Breeds That Can Sleep Through Anything
1. Mastiff
These gentle giants are big on protection—and even bigger on nap time. Mastiffs are among the largest dog breeds, and they can have a long sleep for up to 18 hours a day. Sounds crazy, right? Their large build naturally demands more rest, especially between short bursts of workouts.
At home, they tend to enjoy a laid-back, couch potato lifestyle. But don’t let their sleepy vibe fool you—if a stranger steps into the house, they’ll be alert in seconds. That’s why early socialization is so important for Mastiff puppies.
Despite their size, they’re generally calm, love comfort, and are happiest curled up in a bed that can support the dog’s size. Just 30 minutes of daily exercise helps keep them fit and avoids weight issues.
2. English Bulldog
The English Bulldog is in a whole league of its own. These stocky pups are famous for their love of lounging and can easily sleep 12–14 hours a day, sometimes more, especially if they’re puppies, seniors, or it’s just a really warm day.
Part of the reason they’re so sleepy is their brachycephalic (short-nosed) face, which can make breathing and exercise a little more tiring. Add in their solid build, and even simple activities use up quite a bit of energy, so naturally, they’ll need to snooze it off.
But wait, there’s more! Bulldogs are also known for their signature wrinkles and grunty charm, making them one of the most unmistakably lovable dog breeds out there.
3. Saint Bernard
Being a gentle giant is tiring work. With their massive size and mellow personality, Saint Bernards are the kind of big dogs that would rather lie down and relax than bounce around the house. They typically sleep around 10–12 hours a day, though some can hit closer to 18 hours, especially after a bit of exercise.
Purina says that this breed was originally bred in the 18th century by monks at a hospice offering aid and shelter to travellers in the Swiss Alps. Their sheer size means they burn more energy just moving around, which makes their frequent dozing totally understandable.
Here’s the good part: these dogs are total cuddlebugs. Their calm, affectionate nature and love to sleep make them ideal for laid-back families. A Saint Bernard is always down to curl up on a cozy bed and enjoy some well-earned shut-eye.
4. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus may be small, but when it comes to nap time, they don’t mess around. These fluffy lap dogs can easily sleep 12–14 hours a day, and even longer if they’re puppies or older. With their easygoing, companion-oriented nature, they’re happiest curled up beside you, quietly dozing the day away.
Exactly. This breed was originally bred to be a loyal companion, and it shows—they’re all about comfort, cuddles, and calm. Who knows if they’re truly sleeping or just enjoying being your little shadow?
And here’s the best part! Not only do they love to sleep, but Shih Tzus are also hypoallergenic, making them a great fit for families with allergy concerns. Add that to their affectionate personality, and you’ve got a snoozy best friend who won’t trigger sneezes on the couch.
5. Great Dane
Great Danes hold the title of the tallest dogs in the world, but you might be surprised to learn they also belong to the “sleep all day” club. These gentle giants often rack up 12 to 18 hours of sleep a day, especially as adults.
Now, their enormous size means they burn a lot of energy just moving from one room to the next, so they make up for it with plenty of nap time. After a short 20-minute walk, most are perfectly content to sprawl out on a soft bed or take over half the couch for a good, long snooze.
They’re known for being calm, affectionate, and not easily startled, which means they don’t waste their energy levels on barking or pacing. And here’s the good part: once they find a comfy spot, they’ll stay there for hours, totally content to watch the world go by… in their dreams.
6. Basset Hound
Basset Hounds are some of the sleepiest dog breeds around—no joke, they can sleep up to 20 hours a day! Their low energy levels, combined with short legs and a heavy frame, mean even short bursts of activity wear them out fast.
Their long, floppy ears and soulful eyes only add to their perpetually sleepy vibe. But don’t be fooled—underneath that relaxed exterior is a nose that never quits. PetMD states that Basset Hounds have an incredible sense of smell and were originally bred for tracking and hunting. So, while they may prefer lounging on the couch, if they catch a scent, they’ll slowly—but determinedly—follow it.
And here’s the good part: as long as you pair their heavy nap schedule with some light exercise, these lazy yet lovable dogs make amazing companions. Just give them a cozy bed and let them do what they do best—sniff a little, nap a lot.
7. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are big, gentle fluffballs with hearts (and paws) to match. These gentle giants can clock in around 10–12 hours of sleep a day, sometimes even more, up to 18 hours, especially after activity.
Their calm, comforting presence makes them feel like a walking weighted blanket. They often sleep through storms, loud noises, or a house full of kids, curled up like massive teddy bears. Add their love for cool, cozy spots and a deep, affectionate streak, and you’ve got a dog who’s basically a giant, snoring couch companion.
But wait, there’s more! One of the most unique things about Newfoundlands is their webbed feet—yes, really. It makes them excellent swimmers, which is why they’ve been used in countless water rescues. So, when they’re not snoozing, they’re making a splash—literally.
8. French Bulldog
If there’s a dog breed that takes its nap time seriously, it’s the French Bulldog. These compact pups are known for sleeping a solid 12–14 hours a day, and that number jumps even higher for puppies or seniors, sometimes up to 20 hours!
Britannica mentions that Frenchies are a brachycephalic breed, meaning they have short noses and flat faces. This can make breathing a bit more difficult, which affects their energy and causes them to sleep a lot more than some other dog breeds.
And here’s the best part: their laid-back, easygoing nature makes them total pros at lounging. Whether it’s snoring on the couch or curling up in a soft bed, French Bulldogs live for those quiet, comfy moments.
Unlike some breeds, this pooch doesn’t need regular exercise to stay happy. Just a few short walks and they’re ready to do what they love most—sleep a lot.
9. Chow Chow
Chow Chows might look like proud little lions, but deep down, they’re total nap lovers. These independent pups can sleep around 12 hours a day, happily lounging in their favorite quiet spot—usually alone, thank you very much.
Exactly. While some dog breeds want to curl up in your lap, the Chow Chow prefers solo nap time, often finding a peaceful corner away from the household hustle. Their calm, observant nature means they’re not ones for high-energy antics—they’d much rather chill and watch the world go by.
Did you know that according to AKC, they’re one of the oldest dog breeds in the world and come with a unique touch—their blue-black tongue, a rare trait that sets them apart. Add their lion-like mane, sturdy build, and dignified personality, and you’ve got a dog that’s not just sleepy, but seriously cool while doing it.
10. Pekingese
Pekingese may be small, but their love for sleep is anything but. These royal lap dogs typically spend their time snoozing for 12–14 hours a day, and they’re more than happy to spend even more time resting if their environment is calm and cozy.
Originally bred as companions for Chinese emperors, Pekingese were literally carried around in the sleeves of nobility. Sounds crazy, right? That pampered history shaped them into the chill, low-energy dogs they are today, built more for lounging than leaping.
They tend to enjoy long periods of peace and quiet, often preferring a comfy bed or a warm spot near their owners, though they’re just as happy enjoying their own space. Their affectionate yet independent nature means they’ll gladly curl up for a long nap, but on their own terms.
Conclusion
Dogs, like all animals, rely on good sleep to stay healthy, happy, and emotionally balanced. It’s during those long naps that their bodies recover, their minds reset, and their overall life quality improves. Sleep isn’t just a habit—it’s a vital part of what makes our dogs the calm and loving companions we cherish.
In the end, our dogs remind us that rest is just as important as play. Their ability to slow down, settle in, and fully embrace downtime is something we can all learn from. Because a well-rested dog isn’t just a sleepy one—it’s a content, grounded soul enjoying the simple rhythms of life.
