If you’ve ever envied your dog’s ability to nap at any moment, imagine sharing your home with a breed that takes snoozing to an entirely new level. Some dogs have mastered the art of sleep so thoroughly that they can clock in up to 20 hours a day in blissful slumber.
These canine sleep enthusiasts aren’t lazy—they’re simply wired for relaxation. While most dogs enjoy their fair share of naps, certain breeds are true masters of downtime.
Whether it’s due to their laid-back temperament, low energy needs, or genetic disposition, these pups turn lounging into an Olympic sport.
Here, we’ll uncover the breeds that take rest and relaxation to the extreme. Perfect for calm households, apartment living, or anyone who appreciates a peaceful, low-maintenance companion, these dogs remind us that sometimes the best activity is no activity at all.
Get ready to meet the ultimate sleepiest dog breeds!
Dog Breeds That Sleep 20 Hours a Day
1. Newfoundland
Imagine a 150-pound teddy bear with webbed feet, a heart of gold, and the ability to sleep like it’s their full-time job. That’s the Newfoundland for you.
Standing tall at 26–28 inches, these gentle giants come dressed in thick, fluffy coats — black, brown, gray, or the snazzy black-and-white Landseer look. Their giant heads, droopy jowls, and wise, soulful eyes make them look like old philosophers… who prefer naps over deep conversations.
These fluffy water bears are world-class nappers, clocking up to 20 hours of sleep a day. When they’re not dreaming of giant dog biscuits or heroic water rescues, they’re either slowly waddling to their food bowl or trying to sit on your lap (yes, all 150 pounds of them).
Despite their size, Newfoundlands are known as “nanny dogs” — calm, sweet, and endlessly patient with kids, says WebMD. They’re strong swimmers thanks to their webbed paws but are just as happy being the soft, snoring mountain of fluff in your living room.
Why you’ll love having a Newfoundland as your snooze buddy:
Basically, a small bear who wants to cuddle you.
If your pool ever needs a lifeguard, they’ve got you covered.
Sweet, loyal, and incredibly gentle with kids.
You’ll never sleep alone (or quietly) again.
Newfoundlands are naturally more comfortable in cooler weather. In warmer conditions, it’s important to provide them with shade, plenty of water, and to limit their physical activity to prevent overheating. If you’re looking for a living weighted blanket who also happens to be a world-class lifeguard, the Newfoundland is your perfect match!
2. Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees looks like a living snowdrift — massive, majestic, and dressed in a thick, all-white coat that would make even the fluffiest sheep jealous. Standing up to 32 inches tall and weighing as much as 160 pounds, these gentle giants are built for mountain guarding but perfectly happy to guard your couch, too.
Originally bred to watch over livestock in the chilly Pyrenees Mountains, these dogs developed a calm, patient nature — and an impressive ability to nap for most of the day. It’s not uncommon for a Great Pyrenees to sleep between 18 and 20 hours daily, especially when they feel their “flock” (aka, you and your family) is safe and secure.
They’re affectionate, low-energy indoors, but exercise is important; after a leisurely walk, they’re more than ready to resume their role as a giant, snoring rug.
Why you’ll love having a Great Pyrenees:
Built-in home security — alert but calm.
Champion sleeper who can nap the day away.
Gentle, patient, and great with kids and other pets.
Despite their impressive strength and speed, Great Pyrenees are typically calm and gentle at home with their loved ones, making them wonderful family companions.
As natural guardians, they aren’t highly energetic — their role requires conserving energy for protecting their flock. Their independent nature, developed from being left alone in mountain valleys to watch over sheep, still shows today.
As a result, Great Pyrenees usually lead a low-energy lifestyle and enjoy their alone time, which can make them a bit stubborn and independent when it comes to training.
3. Great Dane
The Great Dane may look like a towering beast, but in reality, they’re overgrown lapdogs with hearts full of love — and a serious passion for sleeping. Standing up to 34 inches tall and weighing up to 175 pounds, these lanky giants are often called “gentle giants” for good reason.
While adult Great Danes average 14 to 16 hours of sleep a day, their schedule is a bit more flexible. They don’t sleep all in one stretch like us humans. Instead, they scatter naps throughout the day, alternating between brief bursts of activity and long, luxurious rest sessions.
Puppies and seniors take it even further, clocking up to 18 to 20 hours of shut-eye to fuel growth and rest aging joints.
Despite their imposing size, Great Danes are calm, patient, and surprisingly laid-back. They enjoy moderate exercise but are more than happy to sprawl across your couch (or bed, if you let them) and quietly snooze the day away.
Why you’ll love having a Great Dane:
Couch companions with a surprisingly calm vibe.
Loyal and loving with a gentle protective streak.
Their size may be king-sized, but their hearts are even bigger.
Sweet and affectionate, Great Danes love to play and are typically gentle with children. They have a calm temperament but still carry the bravery that once made them skilled wild boar hunters. They aren’t overly vocal, their powerful bark is unmistakable, and they won’t hesitate to protect their family if needed.
Despite their impressive size, Great Danes are generally low-energy when indoors, content to lounge around and stay close to their people, making them surprisingly suitable for apartment living for those who want a large but laid-back dog.
4. Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard is the dog world’s equivalent of a cozy winter blanket: massive, warm, and absolutely designed for comfort.
With their iconic droopy eyes, barrel-sized chest, and a thick coat made for alpine rescues, these fluffy giants look like they just walked out of a snow-covered postcard — and into your living room for a nap.
While they can grow to a whopping 180 pounds and stand up to 30 inches tall, Saint Bernards are surprisingly chill for their size. And when we say chill, we mean they love to sleep. We’re talking marathon nap sessions, only interrupted by short walks and snack breaks.
But with all that lounging comes a little responsibility — they’re prone to weight gain, so regular exercise (about 30 minutes a day) and portion control are key.
Why you’ll love having a Saint Bernard:
Calm and relaxed — the perfect low-key roommate.
Surprisingly, apartment-friendly if exercised regularly.
Basically, your own personal snow rescue squad (who naps more than rescues).
Despite their size, their low-energy lifestyle makes them surprisingly good apartment dwellers. Just make sure you’re okay with sharing your floor space — and maybe your couch — with a dog that thinks it’s a cuddly pillow.
5. Mastiff
If you’re searching for the ultimate sleeping buddy, the Mastiff might just be your spirit animal. The massive Mastiff, also called the Old English Mastiff, is an ancient breed with deep historical roots, first discovered in Britain.
Originally used as guardians, their protective instincts continue today, as they remain loyal and watchful over their families. Known for their colossal size (up to 230 pounds!) and even more colossal nap schedule, Mastiffs have earned their spot among the sleepiest breeds around.
Mastiffs spend about 50% of their time sleeping, 30% just lying there thinking about sleeping, and a whopping 20% (maybe) doing something active. It’s a laid-back lifestyle that makes them shockingly good fits for apartments, as long as there’s room for their giant snoozing bodies.
Why you’ll love having a Mastiff:
Low-energy living legend — perfect for calm households.
Gentle, affectionate, and ridiculously devoted.
Their biggest ambition? Claiming the comfiest nap spot in the house.
But don’t be fooled by the sleepiness. Mastiffs are incredibly loyal and protective. They’re like furry, oversized bodyguards who happen to nap on the job — a lot. Combined with their gentle and affectionate temperament, Mastiffs make excellent companions.
However, owning such a giant breed requires a serious commitment, and proper training and early socialization are crucial to ensure a well-behaved dog. Just give them short daily walks to keep them in shape and prevent them from turning into a giant, sleepy marshmallow.
6. Basset Hound
The Basset Hound might just be the poster pup for professional nappers. With their droopy eyes, long velvety ears, and short, stout legs, they look like they’re perpetually halfway to dreamland.
In fact, these low-energy scent hounds are champions of the “multiple nap” lifestyle. Over the course of a day, Basset Hounds clock in about 14 to 18 hours of sleep, snoozing in short bursts that add up to serious Z’s.
While their noses were originally bred for hunting, their favorite pastime these days involves cozy beds, warm laps, and the occasional snore-filled symphony. Don’t let their laziness fool you, though — once they catch a whiff of something interesting, they’ll waddle off to investigate (before returning to nap duty, of course).
Why you’ll love a Basset Hound sleeper:
Nap king/queen of the dog world
Built-in snuggle buddy with world-class droopy charm
Occasional energy bursts followed by even longer naps
Although originally bred for hunting, Basset Hounds are now well-known for their laid-back nature and are most often kept as companion pets. They’re generally affectionate and get along well with children and other pets, especially when properly introduced and socialized under supervision.
While these easygoing dogs might happily snooze in their beds all day, owners need to ensure they get regular exercise to help prevent obesity and other health concerns. Being social animals, some Basset Hounds may struggle with being left alone for extended periods and are prone to developing separation anxiety.
7. Bulldog
Bulldogs are basically the masters of the chill lifestyle. Standing only 14–15 inches tall, Bulldogs are short but solid, weighing between 40 and 50 pounds. They’re easily recognized by their droopy lips and the loose wrinkles that cover their face and neck.
As a non-sporting breed, bulldogs spend much of their time doing what they do best: napping, snoring, and seeking out cool spots to sprawl. A bulldog can easily rack up 16+ hours of sleep a day, happily alternating between snoozing and seeking your attention for a cuddle session.
Why you’ll love a Bulldog sleeper:
Expert-level snuggler and professional couch potato
Minimal exercise needs = perfect for lazy weekends
Those adorable snorts and snores will melt your heart
While English Bulldogs are generally calm, they may show curiosity in new situations and can be a bit reserved around unfamiliar people. However, they’re very affectionate with their loved ones.
Bulldogs aren’t typically prone to excessive barking or digging, but without enough mental stimulation and attention, boredom can lead to destructive behaviors. Keeping them engaged is key to a happy, well-behaved Bulldog.
But don’t confuse all that sleepiness with laziness — Bulldogs do enjoy short strolls and playtime, but thanks to their stocky build and breathing difficulties, they prefer to keep physical activity light. Excessive sleep is normal for them, though if they’re snoozing even more than usual, it’s always worth checking with the vet just to be safe.
8. Greyhound
While Greyhounds might be famous for their lightning-fast sprinting, what many don’t realize is that when they’re not zooming, they’re snoozing—hard. As a large breed, Greyhounds typically stand 27 to 30 inches tall and weigh between 60 and 70 pounds.
Known as “the 45-mph couch potato,” Greyhounds often sleep up to 18 hours a day. After a quick burst of zoomies, they’re more than content to sprawl out in sunbeams or snuggle into a cozy dog bed for marathon naps.
Physically, Greyhounds are sleek and elegant, with long legs, deep chests, and narrow waists that give them their aerodynamic shape. But don’t be fooled by their athletic build — these pups are professional loungers.
Why you’ll love a Greyhound:
Lightning-fast sprints followed by loooong naps.
Low-maintenance coat and low-key personality.
Ideal for apartment living as long as they get a daily walk and a soft place to crash.
While Greyhounds have an independent streak, it’s beautifully balanced by their gentle and sweet nature, making them excellent companions at home.
9. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu may have royal Chinese ancestry, but today, they rule over much cozier kingdoms—your couch, your lap, or that one sunny patch on the floor. The Shih Tzu is believed by some to be a mix between the Pekingese and Lhasa Apso. Its name comes from the Chinese word for “lion.”
This small breed is known for its unique appearance, featuring long, silky hair, short legs, and big, expressive eyes. With their affectionate and friendly nature, along with a preference for smaller living spaces, Shih Tzus have become a favorite among many dog lovers.
They practically demand pampering—and naps, lots of naps. These little fluffballs are perfectly content to follow you from room to room just to curl up and snooze beside you. Who knows whether they’re actually sleeping or just pretending to supervise? Either way, Shih Tzus can easily clock 14–16 hours of sleep a day, making them the ultimate champions of relaxed companionship.
Why you’ll love a Shih Tzu:
✔ Tiny cuddle expert
✔ Requires just a little exercise (and a lot of brushing!)
✔ Loyal, affectionate, and always ready for another nap session
Shih Tzus are well-suited to homes of any size, as they don’t require much space to thrive. However, they still need room to play and stay entertained.
Since they were originally bred as royal lapdogs and spent much of their time indoors in palaces, Shih Tzus don’t need a lot of exercise and are perfectly content with short daily activities. While they do enjoy a short daily walk or playful session, their favorite activity is clearly resting like tiny, furry emperors.
10. Pekingese
If Shih Tzus are royalty, Pekingese might just be divine emperors. Originally bred to grace the laps of Chinese nobility, Pekingese have fully embraced their pampered past.
Today, Pekingese are loving and devoted companions, often carrying themselves with a certain pride in their noble heritage. These compact dogs stand 6 to 9 inches tall and can weigh up to 14 pounds.
These little dogs adore relaxation and can easily sleep 14–18 hours a day, preferably somewhere soft, warm, and extremely comfortable (like your lap or the finest cushion in the house).
With their signature lion-like manes, flat faces, and soulful eyes, Pekingese look like tiny, noble philosophers, constantly contemplating whether it’s time for another nap or a treat.
Why you’ll love a Pekingese:
✔ Majestic coat and charmingly serious expression
✔ Low-energy lifestyle, perfect for calm households
✔ Always down for cuddles and quality nap time
PetMD noted Pekingese are typically self-assured and strong-willed, yet a contented Pekingese tends to be quite relaxed at home. Their deep attachment to their family means that some may experience separation anxiety
As a brachycephalic (short-faced) breed, they are more susceptible to overheating, so exercise during hot weather should be limited. In addition to keeping them cool, owners must dedicate regular time to grooming, as their thick double coat requires frequent brushing to prevent tangles and matting.
Conclusion
Some dog breeds like Basset Hounds, French Bulldogs, and large dogs may sleep up to 20 hours a day, especially as adult dogs, senior dogs, or older dogs. While puppies and very active dogs like Border Collies need more daily exercise and have different sleeping habits, many average dogs and working dogs adapt their sleep patterns to their daily life.
Owners find that cold weather, large size, and a dog’s age influence how much sleep is needed. Despite a long time asleep, awake hours are filled with play, bonding as a family member, and enjoying deep sleep on a comfortable bed. To support their health, ensure plenty of rest during the day and at night, while monitoring how many hours they need compared to other dogs.
