Bath time can be a splashy adventure — especially if your dog thinks the tub is a trap! But not all pups put up a fight when the shampoo bottle appears. Some dogs have an incredibly calm and composed nature that makes bath time feel more like a spa session than a struggle.
Being “calm,” though, isn’t just about being lazy or sleepy. It’s about how well a dog handles unfamiliar or slightly stressful moments — like the sound of running water or the feeling of bubbles on their fur.
They have a balanced temperament, which means fewer splashes, less stress, and a much more peaceful bath for both of you!
So, if you’re dreaming of bath times without chaos, keep reading. We’re revealing 10 dog breeds that stay calm during bath time — always — the kind of pups that make washing day surprisingly relaxing.
Key Takeaways
Meet 10 dog breeds that turn bath time into a chill, splash-free routine.
Discover why calm pups like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Newfoundland make bathing effortless.
See how gentle grooming habits keep breeds like the Saint Bernard and Greyhound happy and clean.
Get quick, easy tips to make every bath a peaceful, tail-wagging experience.
Dog Breeds That Stay Calm During Bath Time Always
1. Clumber Spaniel
The Clumber Spaniel has royal roots, originating in England’s Clumber Park in the 18th century. Bred by the Duke of Newcastle, the Clumber became a favorite among British nobility. Built for hunting upland game, this strong spaniel worked steadily through dense brush with calm determination.
Calm, Loyal, and Lovable
Known as the “dignified buffoon,” the Clumber Spaniel blends elegance with an easygoing charm. At home, they’re affectionate and loyal, often sticking close to their humans. Though a little reserved with strangers, they’re gentle with kids and other pets, barking only when truly necessary.
Bath Time and Grooming Tips
Naturally calm during the bathing process
Dense coat benefits from regular brushing to manage shedding
Enjoy water and often find bath time relaxing
Rarely fussy or restless during grooming
Smart, obedient, and eager to please — easy to train for routines
2. Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is one of the most recognizable and beloved dog breeds in the world. Originating in France, this charming hound was bred by the aristocracy to hunt rabbits, hares, and deer.
Purina says that they are known for their incredible scenting ability, which is second only to the Bloodhound.
Bassets track their prey with patience and precision. Their long, velvety ears and sad, soulful eyes give them a clownish yet lovable look that melts hearts everywhere.
Calm, Loyal, and a Bit Stubborn
At home, Basset Hounds are gentle, loyal, and famously laid-back. They enjoy lounging on the sofa but are always ready for a walk or a little adventure when the mood strikes.
Though they can be stubborn when following a scent, their mild temperament and affectionate nature make them wonderful family companions. They get along well with children and other pets, adapting easily to new surroundings.
Bath Time and Grooming Tips
Calm and cooperative during bath time and brushing
Ears need regular cleaning to prevent infections
Their short coat requires simple, occasional grooming
Naturally low-energy and relaxed indoors
Gentle and patient — making bath time a stress-free experience
3. English Bulldog
The Bulldog’s history goes back to 12th-century England, where it was originally bred for bullbaiting. These strong, fearless dogs were known for their power and courage. When dogfighting was banned in 1835, devoted breeders worked to preserve the Bulldog’s spirit while removing its aggression.
The result is today’s Bulldog — calm, loyal, and full of character. With their signature wrinkled faces, pushed-in noses, and rolling gait, they’ve become a beloved symbol of strength and determination.
Gentle, Loyal, and Full of Charm
Despite their tough look, Bulldogs are gentle and affectionate companions. They’re known for their easygoing nature and love being close to their families. Often called “sourmugs” for their adorable frowny faces, they’re anything but grumpy.
These dogs enjoy curling up under the dining table or relaxing beside you after a short walk. They’re friendly, dignified, and wonderfully loyal — great with children and other pets when socialized early.
Bath Time and Grooming Tips
Generally calm and cooperative during baths
Wrinkles need regular cleaning to prevent irritation
Their short coat requires minimal grooming
Prefer cool and calm environments
Low-energy and easy to care for daily
4. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier has deep roots in 19th-century England, where it was originally bred for dog fighting and vermin control. Developed by crossing Bulldogs with terriers, this muscular little dog was strong, agile, and fearless.
Recognized by The Kennel Club in the 1930s, the breed proudly carries the name of its birthplace — Staffordshire, England.
Affectionate and Loyal Companions
Today’s Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a far cry from its rough beginnings. These dogs are famously affectionate and loyal, earning the nickname “nanny dog” for their loving and protective nature with children.
They thrive on human companionship, wanting to be involved in everything their family does. These active dogs are happiest when they’re close to their people, enjoying cuddles after a good burst of playtime.
Bath Time and Grooming Tips
Respond well to calm care and positive associations during grooming
Their short coat needs minimal use of grooming tools
Regular baths with warm water keep their coat clean and healthy
Watch for minor skin issues, especially around folds or sensitive spots
Gentle temperament makes them easy to manage during care routines
5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel carries centuries of British history in its name. Originating from small spaniels bred for royalty in the 1600s, this charming toy breed was developed in the early 1900s to resemble its elegant ancestors.
Once the beloved lap dog of kings and queens, the Cavalier is still adored for its regal grace and affectionate spirit. With soft, silky fur and those famous soulful eyes, this little dog easily wins hearts wherever it goes.
Sweet, Playful, and Calm
Cavaliers are gentle, affectionate, and endlessly loving. They thrive on human contact and are happiest when close to their family — whether curled up on a lap or playing in the yard. Adaptable and easy to please, they fit beautifully into almost any lifestyle.
These small spaniels are friendly with children, other dogs, and even cats, making them ideal companions for families or anyone wanting a loyal, easygoing friend.
Bath Time and Grooming Tips
Calm and relaxed during baths with gentle handling
Their long, flowing coat benefits from regular brushing to prevent tangles
Ears need frequent cleaning to stay healthy
Enjoy warm water and soft brushing as part of a soothing routine
Regular grooming keeps their coat shiny and their skin comfortable
6. Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard is one of the most famous rescue dogs in the world. Originating in the snowy Alps of Switzerland and Italy, this noble breed was developed by monks at the Great St. Bernard Pass to locate and save travelers lost in the mountains.
Named after Saint Bernard of Menthon, these powerful yet gentle dogs became legendary for their bravery, loyalty, and calm nature in life-saving missions.
Calm, Loving, and Family-Oriented
Known as true “gentle giants,” Saint Bernards are calm, affectionate, and incredibly patient. They adore spending time with their families and are famously good with children — often called “nanny dogs” for their protective and caring instincts.
Their friendly nature can ease anyone’s fear of their size, but they’ll still step up to defend loved ones if needed.
Bath Time and Grooming Tips
Calm and steady during baths when handled with care
Thick coats need regular brushing to manage shedding
Enjoy gentle bathing with lukewarm water to stay comfortable
Ears and skin folds should be checked and cleaned often
Regular grooming helps keep their coat healthy and clean year-round
7. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a large working breed that originated on the island of Newfoundland, Canada. Believed to be descended from native dogs crossed with the Great Pyrenees, this breed was developed to help fishermen haul nets and rescue swimmers from icy waters.
With webbed feet, a thick waterproof coat, and a natural instinct for saving lives, Newfoundlands became known as dependable water rescue dogs — and loyal companions on land.
Sweet, Calm, and Devoted
Despite their impressive size, Newfoundlands are gentle giants with hearts of gold. They’re famously patient and affectionate, earning the nickname “nanny dog” for their loving care toward children, as mentioned by the American Kennel Club.
Their calm and steady nature makes them wonderful family pets. They’re watchful but not aggressive, always eager to please and happiest when surrounded by their favorite people — or swimming in a nearby pond!
Bath Time and Grooming Tips
Calm and cooperative during frequent baths
Their dense coat needs regular brushing to prevent tangles and matting
Enjoy water, making bath time easier than most breeds
Use mild shampoos to protect their thick, natural oils
Regular grooming keeps them clean, comfortable, and healthy
8. Tibetan Spaniel
The Tibetan Spaniel, affectionately known as the “Tibbie,” has been a beloved companion in Tibet since ancient times. Originating from monasteries in the Himalayan Mountains, these alert little dogs were treasured by Buddhist monks.
They often perched on monastery walls, keeping watch and alerting monks to strangers or wild animals. Though not true spaniels, they share ancestry with breeds like the Pekingese and Lhasa Apso.
Lively, Loyal, and Loving
Tibetan Spaniels are cheerful, intelligent, and confident. They’re playful and curious but also love their quiet moments at home.
Naturally cautious around new people, they warm up quickly with gentle introductions. Their loyal and affectionate nature makes them wonderful family pets and ideal companions for apartment living.
Bath Time and Grooming Tips
Calm and cooperative during baths when handled gently
Their silky coat benefits from weekly brushing to remove loose hair
Regular grooming keeps their fur soft and shiny
Enjoy warm water and gentle drying after bath time
Ears and eyes should be cleaned often to keep them healthy
9. Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is one of the oldest and most admired dog breeds in the world. They were originally bred in Ireland to hunt large game like deer, boar, and wolves.
These majestic dogs were once owned only by kings and nobles. Today’s Wolfhounds are calm, affectionate companions known for their noble and loyal spirit.
Gentle, Calm, and Devoted
Despite their grand presence, Irish Wolfhounds are gentle and loving. They form strong bonds with their families and are known for their kind and sensitive nature. While they enjoy a bit of outdoor exercise, they’re just as happy to relax quietly at home.
Bath Time and Grooming Tips
Calm and patient during baths when handled with care
Their wiry coat benefits from regular brushing to prevent tangles
Gentle bathing keeps their skin healthy and coat clean
Use mild shampoos to protect their natural coat texture
Ears and nails should be checked and cleaned regularly
10. Greyhound
The Greyhound is one of the world’s oldest and most admired dog breeds. Dating back to ancient Egypt, this sleek and noble hound was long associated with royalty and aristocracy.
Originally bred to hunt small game, their unmatched speed and agility made them exceptional hunters — and later, legendary racing dogs.
Fast, Calm, and Affectionate
Known as the fastest dog on Earth, the Greyhound can reach speeds up to 45 mph. But off the track, they’re surprisingly gentle and relaxed.
These elegant dogs are affectionate companions who love quiet moments with their families. Despite their athletic build, they’re calm indoors and happy to curl up on a soft couch after a short walk or sprint.
Bath Time and Grooming Tips
Calm and relaxed during baths, especially with gentle handling
Their short, smooth coat is easy to clean and dries quickly
Need only occasional baths to stay fresh and comfortable
A soft brush once or twice a week keeps their coat shiny
Appreciate warm water and a calm environment during grooming
Conclusion
Bath time doesn’t have to be a struggle — even though many dogs naturally dislike baths. With patience, positive reinforcement, and gentle care, you can help your dog feel relaxed and safe in the tub.
Always use lukewarm water temperature suited to their coat type, and never use human shampoo, as it can irritate your dog’s skin. A non-slip mat can also make bath time safer and turn it into a positive experience for both you and your furry friend.
If your pup has had past negative experiences or gets anxious, start slow and build trust over time. Certain breeds may need extra care or professional grooming services to keep their coats healthy and your dog clean.
You can also seek advice from a professional dog trainer to help your dog associate baths with calm and comfort. With love, patience, and the right approach, bath time can become an enjoyable experience that strengthens your bond and keeps your pet happy and healthy.
Want to learn about more dog breeds that stay calm during bath time? You can also check out the Shih Tzus, Golden Retrievers, Portuguese Water Dogs, and Labrador Retrievers.
