When it comes to adopting a dog, many families are naturally drawn to popular breeds they’ve heard of or seen often. Yet beyond the familiar names lies a world of rare large dog breeds—majestic companions that, despite their uniqueness, often go unnoticed and underserved in shelters.
These gentle giants carry a blend of strength, loyalty, and elegance, but sadly, their rarity doesn’t shield them from the challenges of finding loving homes.
What makes these dogs even more remarkable is their diversity. Some hail from ancient lineages with fascinating histories, while others are newer to the canine world but equally captivating.
Despite their impressive presence and affectionate temperaments, many of these breeds face the same struggles as more common dogs: abandonment, neglect, or simply being overlooked because potential adopters don’t recognize them.
Highlighting these rare large breeds is more than just a celebration of their uniqueness—it’s a call to action. By opening your heart and home to one of these extraordinary dogs, you’re not only gaining a devoted companion but also giving a deserving animal the second chance it needs.
Easygoing Dog Breeds Designed For Quiet Times
1. Basenji
Also known as Africa’s “Barkless Dog”, the Basenji is a graceful, compact hound recognized for its short, glossy coat, curled tail, and finely wrinkled forehead. AKC says the Basenji is a compact hunter with a sweet face, marked by intelligence and poise.
With expressive almond-shaped eyes and feline-like grooming habits, this rare breed stands out as both elegant and independent.
Their quiet demeanor makes them a great fit for peaceful homes. Unlike most breeds, they don’t bark; instead, they communicate with unique sounds like yodels or whines, making them far less disruptive for calm households.
Basenjis are affectionate with their families, yet somewhat reserved around strangers. When socialized early, they adjust well and bring a balanced energy—playful when engaged, but equally content to rest by your side in a serene environment.
Because they thrive with older children who understand gentle interactions, Basenjis are ideal companions in homes seeking tranquility. Their self-cleaning habits add to their low-maintenance charm, making them especially appealing to owners who value tidiness.
Fun Fact: The Basenji doesn’t bark at all—its vocalizations are often described as a cross between a chortle and a yodel.
2. Newfoundland
Often called the “Newfie” and sometimes referred to as the “gentle giant”, the Newfoundland stands out for its massive size and noble bearing. PetMD says Newfoundlands are not only one of the largest dog breeds but also among the most gentle and friendly.
Originally developed on Newfoundland Island, this breed carries a history of working alongside fishermen and even performing heroic water rescues. With their soulful eyes, heavy bones, and flat, coarse coat, they project both dignity and warmth.
These loyal companions are deeply affectionate and thrive in calm households. They rarely bark without reason, making them well-suited to peaceful environments.
Their sweet disposition and patience have earned them the reputation of a “nanny dog,” especially around children, where their steady presence offers quiet reassurance.
What makes these calm dog breeds particularly easygoing is their balance of strength and serenity. Though they need daily exercise, they are not demanding in their activity levels and are happiest lounging quietly after a moderate walk.
Their trust in gentle guidance also makes training a smooth and rewarding process. Newfies embody tranquility in family life—extremely loyal, relaxed, and consistently even-tempered.
Fun fact: A male Newfoundland can weigh up to 150 pounds and stand 28 inches at the shoulder, making them one of the world’s largest dog breeds.
3. Saint Bernard
Also called the “genial giant of the Alps,” the Saint Bernard is famous for its massive frame, wrinkled brow, and gentle eyes. Originally bred by Swiss monks in the 1600s for avalanche rescues, this powerful yet affectionate breed became a symbol of loyalty and calm strength.
In peaceful homes, Saint Bernards are naturally quiet and composed. WebMD says Saint Bernards are affectionate dogs with distinctive physical features. They rarely bark unless there’s a reason, making them wonderful companions for those who value tranquility.
Their affectionate and loyal nature means they’re always nearby, bringing comfort with their steady presence. These dogs thrive when surrounded by family, especially children.
Known as patient “nanny dogs,” Saints are gentle giants that enjoy quiet bonding moments as much as they do playful interaction. Their affectionate nature brings reassurance to calm household settings.
Because of their imposing size, proper training helps them remain controllable, but their personality remains rooted in gentleness. They’re happiest when lounging near loved ones, exuding warmth and serenity.
Fun Fact: Saint Bernards rose to global fame after starring in the 1992 family movie Beethoven, which showcased their loving, family-friendly nature.
4. Borzoi
Also known as the Russian Wolfhound, the Borzoi is a tall, aristocratic sighthound admired for its silky coat, long limbs, and graceful presence. Males often reach at least 28 inches at the shoulder and carry a dignified, statuesque charm.
Their calm and agreeable temperament makes them thrive in relaxed environments. These dogs are more likely to lounge quietly indoors, exuding elegance, while still enjoying occasional bursts of outdoor activity.
Although caring with their families, Borzois are not overly boisterous and prefer gentler forms of companionship. They tend to be reserved, which makes them well-suited to peaceful households that value harmony over constant noise or chaos.
Training them requires patience and consistency, as their independent, catlike streak can make them appear stubborn. With proper guidance and a secure yard, they adapt beautifully to serene living spaces and reward owners with quiet loyalty.
Fun Fact: Despite their calm indoor presence, Borzoi can sprint at speeds of 35–40 miles per hour when in full stride.
5. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog, often called the “Frenchie,” is instantly recognizable with its trademark bat-like ears, compact build, and short muzzle.
Known for their calm personalities, Frenchies thrive in quiet homes where companionship matters more than constant activity. They adapt well to singles, couples, or families, offering a steady, loving presence without demanding excessive outdoor exercise.
Their gentle temperament makes them wonderful companions for children and other pets, and they rarely bark without reason. Despite their laid-back nature, they remain alert enough to act as watchdogs, giving owners peace of mind without disrupting a serene environment.
Because of their flat faces, Frenchies need extra care in warm climates and should be kept from overexertion. Regular cleaning of their skin folds also helps maintain their health.
Fun Fact: Though they’re not strong swimmers, French Bulldogs are excellent snugglers and are happiest when relaxing at their owner’s side.
6. Pug
Also called the “clown of the canine world”, the Pug was once a cherished companion of Chinese emperors and later the symbol of Holland’s royal House of Orange. Compact yet sturdy, they’re instantly recognizable by their wrinkled brows, round heads, and soulful eyes that seem to mirror human expressions.
Pugs thrive in calm households because they’re naturally warm-hearted and not overly demanding. Whether in a city apartment or a countryside home, they settle quickly and are content to simply be near their people.
Their quiet nature fits a relaxed lifestyle, as they aren’t known for excessive barking. Instead, you may hear soft snorts or snuffles, a quirk of their brachycephalic structure that adds to their charm without creating noise disturbances.
These great family pets enjoy lounging but still need short daily walks to stay healthy. As long as their wrinkles are cleaned and their diet is managed, Pugs remain happy, lovable companions for families who prefer an easygoing pace.
Fun Fact: The Pug’s motto is “multum in parvo”—Latin for “a lot in a little,” reflecting their big personality in a small frame.
7. Japanese Chin
Also called the Japanese Spaniel, the Japanese Chin is a refined toy breed once cherished by nobility. With a flowing, silky coat, large, expressive eyes, and a plumed tail arching over the back, they carry an aristocratic elegance that sets them apart.
These loyal dog breeds are admired for their gentle nature, which makes them excellent companions in peaceful homes. They tend to be quiet and polite, offering affection without being overly demanding, a trait that pairs well with calm lifestyles.
Their tolerance shines in how they adapt to different households. While they enjoy attention, they remain patient and composed, even in busy environments, making them suitable for families that value serenity.
Though intelligent, Japanese Chins can be a little stubborn during training, requiring extra patience from their pet parents. This combination of independence and loyalty deepens their charm as easygoing companions.
Fun Fact: Many Japanese Chins are successfully trained to use indoor potty areas, reflecting their adaptability to apartment living.
Conclusion
Easygoing breeds prove that not every dog demands constant activity; some thrive in a laid-back lifestyle filled with relaxed walks and calm companionship.
Whether it’s a laid-back dog breed like the Basset Hound or Shih Tzu, or a very quiet dog breed such as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or Bichon Frise, these lap dogs are well-suited for apartment dog living and families with young kids or even very small children.
When given enough attention and care, they avoid destructive behaviours and instead bring peace to households that value gentleness.
Larger companions also deserve to be mentioned—giant cuddly teddy bear types like the Bernese Mountain Dog or even the famously loyal Golden Retriever.
While some sighthound owners agree that their breeds embody calm elegance, others admire impressive guard dogs for their instincts to protect without being overwhelming. From tiny lap dogs to big-hearted giants, these extremely laid-back companions are perfect for anyone who values serenity.
