Life doesn’t always have to move at a fast pace, and sometimes, neither should your dog. For those who embrace simpler living—whether in a quiet countryside cottage, a cozy apartment, or a laid-back family home—there are dog breeds that fit perfectly into a calmer lifestyle.
These easygoing companions bring joy without demanding endless hours of exercise or high-maintenance care. Instead, they thrive in peaceful settings, content with relaxed walks, cozy afternoons, and steady companionship.
Easygoing dogs don’t need constant entertainment or high-energy activities; they shine in providing steady companionship, calm presence, and plenty of affection. They’re perfect for families, retirees, or anyone who values serenity over chaos.
What makes these breeds special is their ability to blend seamlessly into their owner’s lifestyle. They bring balance, warmth, and a kind of comfort that feels like home.
If you’re seeking a furry friend that complements a simpler way of life, join us as we explore easygoing dog breeds that make everyday living more peaceful and joyful.
Easygoing Dog Breeds Found In Simpler Living Arrangements
1. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu: small, sturdy, and basically a lion in a fluffy coat. Originally bred to resemble lions and cherished by Chinese royalty, these little “lion dogs” bring both charm and calm energy to modern homes.
With their expressive eyes, squished muzzles, and luxurious long coats, they’re a royal presence in any living room — without demanding a throne.
✅ Compact & sturdy – weighing 9–16 pounds and standing around 10 inches tall, they’re perfect for apartment dwellers.
✅ Low-shedding companion – PetMD noted that while no dog is truly hypoallergenic, Shih Tzus are easy on the hair front… as long as you keep up with brushing to avoid mats.
✅ Fluffy personality – friendly, affectionate nature, and often playful, they’ll happily snuggle while still keeping their regal “I’m in charge here” attitude.
Shih Tzus don’t require much space, making them suitable for homes of all sizes. However, it’s important to provide them with enough room to play to keep them happy.
Shih Tzus are the ideal blend of calm, charm, and a touch of noble drama. They’re affectionate in nature, adaptable, and ready to enjoy a simple, cozy lifestyle — with plenty of cuddles on the side.
2. Pekingese
The Pekingese: tiny in size, but mighty in personality — and perfect for those who enjoy a slower, simpler pace of life. This little lion of a dog hails from China, where they were once pampered companions of royalty, and they haven’t lost an ounce of their regal attitude.
Despite their noble air, Pekingese are surprisingly easygoing, happy to lounge on a couch, take a leisurely stroll, or simply bask in the sun while you sip your tea.
✅ Small & compact – ideal for apartments, tiny homes, or a cozy reading nook.
✅ Low-energy vibes – content to chill for hours, occasionally demanding attention in dramatic fashion.
✅ Comedic charm – with their squished faces and fluffy mane, they’re basically royalty wrapped in cuteness, often striking poses like they’re ready for paparazzi.
Pekingese are affectionate, calm, and perfect for owners who appreciate an excellent companion that enjoys the quiet life. They may have a bit of “royal stubbornness,” but that just adds to their charm — after all, even kings and queens have a little attitude!
Pekingese puppies can be prone to excessive barking, so early socialization, along with patient, positive training, is crucial. Owners should also be aware that grooming a Pekingese requires significant effort. To keep their coat healthy and shiny, regular at-home brushing and professional grooming visits are necessary.
3. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua: tiny in size, but big in personality. This bold little lapdog brings energy, loyalty, and a surprising amount of attitude to any home.
Though small — averaging just 5–8 inches tall and under 6 pounds — Chihuahuas think they’re kings of the castle, making them great companions for adults who appreciate a confident, spirited dog.
✅ Compact & portable – perfect for apartments or small living spaces.
✅ Loyal lap dogs – they bond deeply with their family and love curling up in a cozy spot.
✅ Bold & sassy – they may be tiny, but they’re full of personality, sometimes even challenging much larger dogs (so early socialization is key).
WebMD says that Chihuahuas are generally not well-suited for households with small children, so it’s important to consider this before bringing one home.
They can also be wary of strangers, so it’s best to avoid overwhelming them in social situations. They thrive on attention, love, and gentle guidance, making them ideal companions for those who want a lively, affectionate, and tiny bundle of bold energy.
4. Pug
The Pug: a little ancient royalty in a wrinkly, snorty package. Originating in China over 2,000 years ago, Pugs quickly became favorites of emperors — and today, they continue to charm families worldwide with their playful faces and loving personalities.
Standing 10–13 inches tall and weighing 14–18 pounds, these compact companions are perfectly suited for simpler living spaces.
✅ Small but sturdy – compact size makes them ideal for apartments and cozy homes.
✅ Couch-friendly – generally calm and content to lounge, though occasional bursts of energy keep life lively.
✅ People-pleasers – they thrive on attention, love to be included in daily activities, and will happily snort, wiggle, and charm their way into your heart.
Pugs are affectionate, loyal, and endlessly entertaining. Their combination of calm demeanor, friendly nature, and lovable quirks makes them perfect companions for owners who enjoy a relaxed, simple lifestyle — with plenty of snuggles on the side.
Pugs are prone to overheating due to their flat faces, which can make breathing more difficult and increase heat sensitivity. Outdoor exercise should be limited in hot weather, and they are best kept indoors, particularly in warmer climates.
5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: elegance and charm wrapped in a small, silky-coated package. These affectionate little pups were bred to be companions, and they take their role seriously — always ready to curl up on your lap, join you on a leisurely stroll, or simply be a calm presence in the home.
Friendly with a gentle nature, these companion dogs are an ideal option for first-time owners. They are currently ranked as one of the most popular dog breeds.
✅ Compact & gentle – weighing 13–18 pounds, they’re perfect for apartments or cozy homes.
✅ Calm yet playful – they enjoy short bursts of activity but are mostly content to relax by your side.
✅ Social sweethearts – friendly, loving, and eager to please, they adapt easily to quieter households.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is known for its friendly and loyal nature, making it an excellent family companion. They are patient, tolerant, and generally get along well with other pets and young children.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are ideal for those seeking a companion who’s affectionate, adaptable, and low-maintenance. These small dogs bring warmth, charm, and just the right amount of playful energy to a simple, peaceful lifestyle.
6. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog: compact, muscular, and full of personality, yet surprisingly low-maintenance — the perfect companion for a relaxed lifestyle. PetMD noted their friendly temperament, lively personality, and small size have helped make them one of the most popular dog breeds in the U.S.
With their signature bat-like ears, squished faces, and stocky bodies, Frenchies are charming little couch potatoes who love hanging out with their humans more than running marathons.
✅ Small & sturdy – ideal for apartments, small homes, or cozy corners.
✅ Chill vibes – they enjoy lounging around most of the day, though they’ll happily play when the mood strikes.
✅ Personality-packed – they may be small, but their comedic antics, snorts, and expressive faces keep life lively.
Their flat faces make them more sensitive to heat and humidity, so it’s important to take precautions to prevent a Frenchie from overheating.
French Bulldogs are affectionate, loyal, and content with a simpler lifestyle. They thrive on human company, making them perfect for owners who want a playful yet relaxed companion who’s always ready for a cuddle… or a dramatic snore.
7. Maltese
The Maltese: tiny, elegant, and surprisingly feisty for their small size. Originating from the Mediterranean island of Malta, these dogs have been faithful companions for centuries. Today, these small white dogs are highly adaptable, making affectionate and devoted pets.
With a long, silky coat and a sweet personality, these little pups are perfect for calmer lifestyles and smaller living spaces. They don’t need intense exercise — a stroll around the yard or a short daily walk keeps them happy and healthy.
✅ Compact & low-energy – ideal for apartments, condos, or homes with small yards.
✅ Alert & attentive – they’re excellent watchdogs who will let you know if something unusual happens (sometimes a little too vocally).
✅ Sensitive companions – prone to separation anxiety, so they thrive when included in daily life or given a cozy, secure space while alone.
Maltese dogs can be wonderful family pets, but interactions with young children should be closely supervised since energetic kids might accidentally harm this small breed. Families with older children who know how to handle a dog gently are often a better fit for a Maltese.
Maltese are affectionate, intelligent, and adaptable little dogs. With proper socialization and crate training, they make loyal, loving companions who bring elegance, charm, and a touch of spirited personality to a peaceful home.
Conclusion
Other dog breeds found in simpler living arrangements, such as the Bichon Frise, Bernese Mountain Dog, Golden Retriever, and American Hairless Terrier, are a fantastic choice for families, city living, or apartment living. These companion dogs, whether gentle giants or lap dogs, thrive with moderate exercise, short walks, indoor playtime, and daily brushing for those with thick coats.
Their loving nature, laid-back attitude, and adaptability to various living situations make them ideal canine pals for human family members. With proper training, positive reinforcement, and attention to daily exercise, these breeds make fantastic pets, perfect for a forever home with minimal exercise or outdoor space needs.
