When you think about a dog’s instincts, chasing, pouncing, and herding often come to mind—and that’s all part of something called prey drive. It’s the natural urge in dogs to chase moving animals, toys, or anything that sparks that “let’s go!” instinct.
For many pups, it’s harmless fun—a sprint after a ball or a playful game of tag. But for households with smaller pets, a high prey drive can turn every walk into a mini adventure… or a bit of chaos.
The good news? Not every dog has a strong prey drive. Some are naturally more laid-back, able to share their home with cats, rabbits, or other small pets without breaking a sweat. These dogs are calmer, easier to train around other animals, and their instinct to chase rarely takes over.
Choosing a dog with a lower prey drive can make life a lot smoother, especially if you want a peaceful multi-pet home or stress-free walks. So what are you waiting for? Let’s jump in and take a look at some of the best dog breeds with low prey drives.
Key Takeaways
French Bulldogs, Pugs, and Shih Tzus are calm, loving dogs with very low prey drive.
These breeds are perfect for homes with other pets and smaller animals.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Maltese, and Havanese are playful, affectionate, and highly adaptable.
These family-friendly dogs are easy to train and love spending time cuddling with their humans.
Dog Breeds With a Low Prey Drive
1. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs may come from the Bulldog family, but they are as far from a prey-driven breed as you can get. They don’t like being left alone and will rarely want to leave your side. They are easy to train and have low exercise needs, which makes them perfect for first-time owners.
These pups are very similar to the Maltese, with one big advantage—they bark a lot less. Their short noses make them prone to breathing issues, so even if they decide to chase something, they usually run out of wind long before they can catch it. Much like their English cousins, French Bulldogs are calm and gentle, making them ideal around other small pets.
Playful, alert, and adaptable
Bright, affectionate, and charming
Don’t bark much, but they are good watchdogs
Get along well with other animals and humans alike
French Bulldogs became popular with lace workers in the 1800s for their calm companionship and lap-warming abilities. Today, their large bat ears, compact muscular body, and even temperament make them one of the world’s most popular small-dog breeds.
The American Kennel Club mentions that they thrive with singles, couples, or families and adapt easily to apartment living while enjoying plenty of love and attention.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Wearing their history in their name, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a sweet, gentle, and highly adaptable toy breed. With big, round eyes and a silky coat, these little aristocrats are as handsome as they are loving.
They were originally bred to keep British royalty company, warming laps in drafty castles and carriage rides. Today, they thrive as family companions, happy to be near their people.
Cavaliers are playful yet calm, making them perfect for active families or homebodies alike. They enjoy short walks, playtime with kids, or even a little dog agility fun—but their focus is always on their family, not chasing other animals.
With their low prey drive, friendly nature, and happy-go-lucky personality, Cavaliers rarely show interest in hunting or herding, preferring cuddles and attention instead.
Friendly, affectionate, and playful
Low prey drive, ideal for multi-pet households
Adaptable to different lifestyles and environments
Get along well with children, other pets, and visitors
Cavaliers combine the gentle attentiveness of a toy breed with the athleticism of a sporting spaniel. They are highly trainable, love to please, and enjoy being part of family life.
While they may occasionally show mild curiosity toward small animals, most are more interested in laps, treats, and affection. With their charming temperament and loving personality, they are one of the most beloved companion dogs worldwide.
3. Pug
If you’re looking for a chilled-out, low prey drive dog, it’s hard to beat the Pug. These little charmers love nothing more than snoozing, snuggles, and attention from their favorite humans.
Bred as companions for Chinese emperors around 2,000 years ago, according to PetMD, Pugs have affection and people-pleasing built right in. They are playful yet low-energy, preferring cuddles over chasing small animals.
Pugs are extremely friendly and thrive on being included in family life. Their prey drive is very low, meaning they rarely bother or chase other pets.
With their short muzzle, they don’t cope well in heat or with vigorous exercise, so they suit laid-back homes in cooler climates. A moderate daily walk keeps them fit and helps prevent extra weight gain, keeping these little dogs healthy and happy.
Sweet, affectionate, and people-oriented
Low prey drive, ideal for multi-pet households
Enjoy lounging, but also playful at home
Adaptable to city or country life, good with kids and adults
Once the mischievous companion of emperors and later royal families in Europe, the Pug remains one of the world’s most adored small breeds. With their wrinkled face, big sparkling eyes, and curly tails, Pugs have an endless range of expressions that melt hearts.
Loyal, loving, and incredibly charming, they are truly a “lot in a little” breed—perfect for anyone seeking a devoted, low-maintenance, and non-prey-driven companion.
4. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus were bred purely for companionship, and it shows in every aspect of their personality. These sweet dogs love being around people, often following their owners from room to room and claiming prime lap real estate whenever possible.
They approach life with easygoing confidence, rarely showing nervousness or aggression, which makes them highly adaptable to different homes and family situations.
This toy breed is especially friendly with children, strangers, and other pets. Without strong prey drive or territorial instincts, Shih Tzus are perfect for multi-pet households. They thrive on human attention, and even first-time dog owners find them easy to care for.
Short daily walks and gentle indoor play keep these brachycephalic pups happy and healthy, while their playful antics and intelligence keep them entertained.
Friendly, affectionate, and loyal
Low prey drive, safe with other pets
Adaptable to apartments, city life, or country homes
Playful, yet content to relax on laps or watch the world
Shih Tzus are cheerful, outgoing, and full of personality. Known as “little lions,” these pups have perfected the role of lapdog for over a thousand years. With their beautiful coats, adorable faces, and loving temperament, they are ideal family companions.
5. Havanese
Once called the Blanquito de la Habana or Havana Silk Dog, the Havanese is Cuba’s national dog and a true lapdog. With soft, flowing locks and a sunny personality, this toy breed is affectionate, playful, and loves to clown around.
They don’t need much space or exercise, making them perfect for city apartments or homes with limited room. Havaneses are friendly and social, making friends wherever they go—including children, dogs, cats, and even the postman!
They are smart, lively, and enjoy learning new tricks in exchange for treats and attention. While they love to lounge on laps, they also thrive on mental stimulation and interactive play.
Loyal and devoted, these little dogs prefer staying close to their family and may develop separation anxiety if left alone too long.
Gentle and playful with kids
Low prey drive, safe with other pets
Intelligent and easy to train
Loyal, affectionate, and loving lapdogs
With their sweet temperament and heart of gold, Havaneses make wonderful therapy or emotional support pets. They enjoy watching the world from a window and may bark to alert you of visitors, but their low prey drive ensures they aren’t a threat to smaller animals.
6. Maltese
The Maltese is an ancient breed, dating back over 2,000 years, and has been a loyal companion for centuries. Famous for their snow-white, floor-length coats, these toy dogs are affectionate, playful, and full of charm.
Despite their delicate appearance, Maltese are hardy little dogs with smooth, athletic movements, but they are not driven by prey instincts, making them calm around other pets.
These little companions are active and playful when the mood strikes, but they can just as easily curl up on the sofa for a nap. Short daily walks are enough for exercise, while their low-shedding coat requires daily grooming and occasional professional care.
Maltese respond well to reward-based training, though they can be a bit stubborn at times. Friendly and adaptable, they get along well with children, adults, and other pets.
Affectionate, playful, and charming
Low prey drive, safe with other animals
Small, hardy, and adaptable to different lifestyles
Require regular grooming and mental stimulation
Known as the “Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta,” the Maltese has long been associated with luxury and elegance. Beneath their show-stopping coat is a courageous, loyal, and intelligent companion.
These tiny dogs are perfect for those seeking a devoted, low-maintenance, and non-prey-driven friend who loves to charm everyone they meet while enjoying family life to the fullest.
7. Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever hardly needs an introduction. Gentle, loving, and friendly, this breed has been a family favorite for decades. Known for their stable temperament and outgoing nature, Goldens thrive in busy homes and love being part of the action.
They are also popular as guide dogs, therapy dogs, and in search-and-rescue programs, thanks to their intelligence and eagerness to please.
Oddly enough, for a dog bred to retrieve game, Golden Retrievers generally have a low prey drive. Most are more interested in people, playtime, and tennis balls than chasing small animals.
While some individuals may show a higher prey instinct, careful selection from breeders or rescues can ensure a dog that fits your family’s lifestyle. With proper socialization, Goldens do well with children, cats, and even larger animals like horses.
Friendly, loving, and outgoing
Low prey drive, safe with other pets
Intelligent and easy to train
Gentle, adaptable, and excellent with children
Golden Retrievers are active yet calm, needing regular exercise to stay healthy and avoid weight gain, as noted by Britannica. They shed moderately and can be prone to conditions like hip dysplasia and arthritis, so choosing a dog from health-tested parents is important.
With patience, training, and socialization, Goldens make devoted, well-mannered family companions, combining athletic ability, intelligence, and a warm, affectionate nature in one lovable package.
Conclusion
Choosing a dog with a low prey drive can make life at home much calmer and more enjoyable, especially if you have other pets or young children.
From lap-loving lap dogs to playful companions, these breeds are affectionate, adaptable, and easy to train, all while keeping their hunting instincts in check. Whether it’s snuggling on the sofa or joining in family activities, a low prey drive dog brings loyalty, love, and harmony to any household.
If you’re thinking about adding a furry friend to your family, consider one of these gentle breeds. Spend time learning about their personalities, needs, and energy levels so you can find a dog who fits perfectly into your life.
After all, the right companion isn’t just about size or appearance—it’s about finding a dog who will happily share your heart and home for years to come.
