Finding the right dog breed can truly be life-changing. No matter you’re a first-time pet parent or someone who prefers laid-back companions, easygoing puppy breeds offer the perfect balance of companionship, affection, and peace.
These dogs tend to have a calm demeanor, are well-mannered, and form strong bonds with humans and other pets alike. They don’t need constant attention or long hikes to stay happy. They just need love, patience, and a cozy spot by your side.
Many breeds are naturally relaxed, quiet, and low maintenance, making them ideal for apartment living. They can also be adjusted at home with children, other animals, or older adults. Most enjoy lazy afternoons, light playtime, and plenty of couch time.
If you’re looking for a pup that’s more about cuddles than chaos, you’re in the right place. Today, we will explore some of the most chill, cuddly, and incredibly calm dog breeds perfect for every lifestyle.
Easygoing Puppy Dog Breeds
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is among the best lap dogs for families. Known for its soulful eyes and affectionate nature. Originating in the United Kingdom and recognized by the AKC in 1995, this breed stands out for its calm demeanor and sweet personality.
Adult Cavaliers typically weigh between 13 to 18 pounds and measure about 12 to 13 inches tall. It makes them ideal for those seeking little dogs with big personalities.
These pups are known to be gentle, friendly, and eager to please, which makes them easy to train and a great companion for children, other dogs, and even cats. Their adaptable nature allows them to thrive in various living situations, from living in small places to suburban homes.
Cavaliers are happiest when close to their humans, often enjoying relaxation time and cuddles. Their playful yet laid-back attitude makes them a good match for families of all types.
2. Saint Bernards
This is the classic example of a gentle giant, admired for its incredibly calm and nurturing temperament. Originally bred in the Swiss Alps to rescue travelers from snowstorms, these dogs are strong, loyal, and deeply devoted to their families.
Adult males can weigh between 140 to 180 pounds, while females typically weigh 120 to 140 pounds, standing up to 30 inches tall at the shoulders.
Despite their massive frame, Saint Bernards are known for their relaxed and easy attitude and cool behavior. This makes them a good match for families who have children and other dogs.
They are very loving, patient, and tend to form strong bonds with their humans. As VCA Hospitals notes, breeds with low energy in their later years need regular check-ups and joint care to stay comfortable as they age.
While their exercise needs are modest, they just need a daily walk and some playtime. Their large size means they need plenty of indoor space to move comfortably. If you’re looking for a calm dog breed with a heart as big as its body, the Saint Bernard is a wonderful choice.
3. Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is instantly recognizable due to its long droopy ears, short legs, and expressive, soulful eyes. This laid-back dog breed was originally developed in France for hunting small game. because of their incredible sense of smell, second only to the Bloodhound.
Adult Bassets typically weigh between 40-65 pounds and stand about 14 inches tall, giving them a compact but solid build.
Known for their low energy and relaxed disposition, Basset Hounds are a low-maintenance breed. They don’t require intense exercise, just a couple of short walks each day and plenty of rest. Despite being slightly independent, they are gentle, well-mannered, and get along well with other dogs, cats, and children.
They do have a funny, deep howl and love to “sing,” so be ready for a bit of vocal personality. For anyone wanting a lovable companion, the basset hound is a perfect fit.
4. French Bulldogs
The French bulldog, or “Frenchie”, is a compact and charming dog breed adored for its affectionate nature and playful, clown-like personality. With their signature bat-like ears and muscular, stocky bodies, French Bulldogs typically weigh between 16 to 28 pounds and stand about 11 to 13 inches tall. Their small size and low energy levels make them ideal for apartment living and urban environments.
Despite being little dogs, they have big personalities, always eager to entertain and enjoy hanging out with their humans. They’re incredibly loyal, easy to train, and generally do well with kids and other pets. Frenchies have modest exercise needs, often satisfied with short walks and indoor play.
While their short coats are simple, they can be sensitive to extreme temperatures and require attention to breathing, especially in hot weather. For anyone wanting a sweet, comfortable companion with tons of charm, the French Bulldog is a top choice.
5. Clumber Spaniel
The Clumber spaniel is one of the most underrated yet truly charming, calm dog breeds. Originally bred in France and later developed in England for bird hunting, this breed is known for its cool behavior, intelligence, and gentle personality.
Clumber spaniels are the largest of the spaniel family, with adult males weighing between 70 to 85 pounds and females slightly smaller at 55 to 77 pounds. They stand about 17 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders.
Their low-key energy and steady temperament make them perfect for pet owners who prefer simple companions that enjoy quiet time and strong bonds with their families. Though not as fast-moving as other spaniels, they still require moderate activity and exercise, like walking and playing in the yard.
Clumbers are affectionate with children, other animals, and strangers, and their simple temperament makes them an ideal companion in a calm, structured household.
6. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a majestic dog breed often referred to as a gentle giant. It was originally bred in Canada to assist fishermen, these dogs are strong swimmers and natural caregivers. Adult males typically weigh between 130 to 150 pounds, while females range from 100 to 120 pounds, with heights reaching 26 to 28 inches at the shoulder.
Known for their calm behavior and gentle nature, Newfoundlands are exceptionally good with children, making them ideal for families who enjoy peaceful house life and lots of quality time. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them easy to handle, though they respond best to patience and positive reinforcement.
Other than their thick coats, which require regular grooming, they are considered easy in personality. A reputable breeder will emphasize their sweet temperament and suitability for pet owners seeking a loyal, smart, and nurturing companion.
7. Shih Tzu
The Shih tzu is the epitome of a royal lap dog, with a history that traces back over 1,000 years to the Chinese Tang Dynasty. Bred to be companions to emperors, these little dogs are still known today for their loving, calm, and loyal nature. Weighing between 9 to 16 pounds and standing about 9 to 10.5 inches tall, Shih Tzus are compact and perfect for small house environments.
They have a naturally low energy lifestyle and prefer lounging, cuddling, and quality time over high activity. Their sweet personality makes them a great choice for older adults, kids, and other pets alike. Though they require frequent grooming to maintain their luxurious coat, they are otherwise a good low maintenance breed in terms of temperament.
According to PetMD, Shih Tzus are prone to separation anxiety but thrive with regular cuddles and attention from their humans. Shih Tzus are also smart and eager to please, which makes them fairly easy to train with gentle guidance and consistency.
Conclusion
If you’re searching for the perfect chill partner, these easygoing puppy breeds paint a peaceful picture of life with a calm and loyal friend. From the regal Cavalier King Charles Spaniel to the cute and confident Shih Tzu, or the massive yet mellow Saint Bernards, each dog breed mentioned is a good fit for families, singles, or seniors looking to relax with their pup by their side.
Don’t forget to factor in what really matters: your living space, grooming routine, and how much time you can dedicate to exercise and partnership. Whether you’re drawn to quiet breeds like greyhounds, affectionate Poodles, or any other calm dog breed. Rest assured that the AKC recognizes many breeds perfect for peaceful living.
No matter the size or coat type, these puppies tend to bond deeply and love their humans endlessly. In return, they just ask for love, patience, and a cozy spot to relax.
