Dogs sleep between 12–18 hours daily, with larger, low-energy breeds sleeping more than active, smaller breeds. Older and low-energy dogs often nap throughout the day. If your idea of the perfect day includes Netflix, snacks, and a stroll, a low-energy, sleepy dog breed could be your ultimate match. These laid-back companions bring love, loyalty, and much snoozing to your life.
Low-energy dogs aren’t lazy; they have a different vibe. They enjoy life at a slower pace, making them perfect for apartment living, seniors, busy professionals, or anyone who prefers a calm canine companion. They usually require less exercise and less stimulation than their high-octane cousins.
This guide will explore the top sleepy and low-energy dog breeds that are happiest when curled up at your feet (or on your couch). These mellow pups are living proof that the best things in life come with wagging tails and lots of naps.
Low Energy and Sleepy Dog Breeds
1. Basset Hound
With their long ears, soulful eyes, and iconic low-to-the-ground waddle, Basset Hounds are built for slow living.
PetMD states that these dogs have impressive noses but not-so-impressive speed. They’re among the sleepiest breeds, often snoozing for up to 18 hours daily.
They’re not technically lazy — they have a very relaxed outlook on life. Basset Hounds were bred for scent tracking over long distances, but at a leisurely pace.
They’re capable of bursts of enthusiasm when their nose catches something exciting, but the rest of the time? Expect lots of lounging, stretching, and dramatic sighs from your dog bed.
Despite their hunting heritage, Basset Hounds are incredibly mellow. A short walk and a sniff session are usually enough to satisfy their exercise needs. Then, it’s straight back to the couch or dog bed for a nap—or several.
Regular exercise is also necessary to keep them at optimal physical health!
They’re also famously stubborn, which pairs well with their low-energy nature. They don’t rush, they don’t jump, and they don’t sprint unless there’s food involved. But their easygoing attitude, affectionate nature, and love for lounging make them a dream for anyone who prefers a relaxed dog.
2. English Bulldog
English Bulldogs are the kings (and queens) of chill.
With their signature wrinkly faces and stocky builds, these pups are all about short bursts of energy followed by long, luxurious naps. They’re known for being easygoing and incredibly loyal.
This breed does require daily walks to prevent weight gain, but don’t expect them to go far or fast. Bulldogs are very sensitive to heat and prone to overheating, so indoor play and cool-weather walks are ideal.
Most of the day, though? They’re perfectly content snoozing in a sunbeam or snoring under your desk.
Let’s be real: yes… but in the most lovable way possible. English Bulldogs are famous for their ultra-low energy levels, preference for naps over walks, and total commitment to the “do less, sleep more” lifestyle.
But it’s not just laziness—it’s also their physical makeup. Their short snouts (brachycephalic structure), stocky builds, and sensitivity to heat make vigorous exercise difficult and even risky.
Despite their grumpy expressions, Bulldogs are affectionate and often hilarious with their lazy antics. They make excellent apartment dogs due to their low activity needs and love of lounging. If you’re looking for a lovable couch potato, this breed checks all the boxes.
3. Clumber Spaniel
Clumber Spaniels might not be the most famous breed, but they’re secretly some sleepiest dogs.
These gentle giants of the spaniel world are known for their calm, affectionate demeanor and surprisingly low activity levels.
Though they were originally bred for hunting, Orvis notes that Clumbers prefer moving slowly and methodically. A short walk or a mellow game of fetch is usually enough to keep them satisfied.
The rest of the time, they’re pros at relaxing, snoring, and sneaking onto the couch when you’re not looking.
They enjoy short walks, gentle play, and lots of lounging. They’re often called “gentle giants” of the spaniel family, thanks to their chunky build, soulful eyes, and mellow personalities. If they’re not snoozing on the couch, they’re probably quietly following you around—or snoring at your feet.
Clumber Spaniels are also very loving and enjoy being close to their humans. They’re great with kids and other pets, and their soft, sleepy eyes are impossible to resist.
If you want a sweet-natured dog that won’t wear you out with constant demands, the Clumber Spaniel is a hidden gem.
4. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs might be small, but they’ve got big, sleepy vibes.
These compact charmers are known for their quirky personalities, snorting sounds, and love for lounging. Despite their playful side, they’re one of the lowest-energy breeds out there.
Frenchies are happiest with short walks and indoor play, followed by long naps in your lap or a cozy corner. Because of their brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure, they’re not built for strenuous exercise or hot weather, which naturally limits their activity level.
While they’re not marathon runners, they are playful, curious, and full of personality. They love interactive toys, games, and hanging out with their pet parents. They express their energy in shorter bursts—think zoomies followed by snuggles.
They’re not built for high activity—thanks to their compact, muscular build and flat faces (brachycephalic structure), they can tire quickly and overheat easily. That’s why they often prefer short walks and indoor play over anything too strenuous.
What they lack in athleticism, they make up for in companionship. French Bulldogs are affectionate, funny, and incredibly loyal. They don’t need a big yard or hours of running to be happy—just your presence, a soft spot to nap, and maybe a squeaky toy for entertainment.
5. Pug
Pugs are the ultimate blend of goofy charm and lazy luxury.
These small, round-faced dogs are famous for their snorts, snores, and love of being pampered. And yes, they are very into naps—sometimes more than anything else.
While Pugs enjoy short bursts of play, they tire quickly and are usually more interested in your lap than your running shoes. Their flat faces make them sensitive to heat and heavy exertion, so gentle walks and relaxed indoor play are ideal.
They are known for short, silly zoomies that end in dramatic flops. They love toys and attention, but don’t need long walks or high activity levels to be content. A few play sessions and a stroll are usually plenty. Then? Nap mode engaged — preferably on your lap or in a sunbeam.
Despite their low-energy vibe, VCA Hospitals mentions they are social butterflies. They love attention, cuddles, and being part of the family—but they won’t beg you for hours of fetch.
Their cheerful attitude and manageable energy levels make them perfect for apartment dwellers and people who appreciate a cuddly, sleepy sidekick.
6. Great Dane
Don’t let their massive size fool you—Great Danes are surprisingly calm and low-energy.
In fact, many owners lovingly refer to them as “gentle giants” or “couch potatoes in XL bodies.” They’re perfectly content lounging for most of the day, only perking up for a walk or two.
While they need room to stretch out, AKC says they are not overly active.
A couple of short walks and some light play usually suffice. They’re often more graceful than they appear, moving slowly and deliberately around the house like sleepy giants.
While they need exercise to keep their big bodies healthy, they are surprisingly low-energy indoors. Most of their day is spent lounging, leaning on you for cuddles, or taking naps in places that are too small (like the tiniest dog bed in the house).
Their affectionate, calm temperament makes them ideal for families or anyone seeking a mellow, loyal companion. Make sure you have space on the couch—they think they’re lap dogs, and it’s pure snuggle bliss once they curl up next to you.
7. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards may have a reputation as alpine heroes, but they’re also some of the sleepiest dogs you’ll ever meet.
These gentle giants are known for their loving hearts, droopy expressions, and ability to nap anywhere, anytime, as WebMD states.
Not active dogs, they would love to lie in a soft bed for long hours!
They were originally bred for mountain rescue, which required strength and endurance but not speed.
As household pets, they’re incredibly mellow and prefer slow, casual strolls over high-energy play. Most of their time is spent sleeping, cuddling, or watching the world go by.
Saint Bernards are ideal for people who want a big dog without the big energy. They’re affectionate, gentle, and great with kids. Just be prepared for drool—lots of it.
If you don’t mind a little slobber in exchange for a sweet, sleepy cuddle buddy, the Saint Bernard might be your dream dog.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a low-energy and sleepy dog breed, you’re in luck—plenty of lovable pups out there prefer a more sedentary lifestyle and thrive on snuggles, naps, and short walks. These dog breeds aren’t lazy—they enjoy life at a slower pace, often perfectly content lounging with their pet parents, relaxing indoors, and conserving energy for a good snooze.
Whether you live in an apartment, have a busy schedule, or enjoy chill vibes, a dog like a Basset Hound with stubby legs, droopy ears, and a mellow nature, or a Great Dane, the classic gentle giant, might be a great fit. Other laid-back dog breeds like the Saint Bernard, English Bulldog, Pug, or Clumber Spaniel are excellent companions for relaxing indoors, avoiding hot weather, and minimizing high-energy demands.
For those who want a smaller, cuddle-ready dog, breeds like the Shih Tzu, Pug, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel offer sleepy snuggles in small-size packages. If you love big, floppy ears and thick coats, the Bernese Mountain Dog, Tibetan Mastiff, or Neapolitan Mastiff may win your heart with their easygoing nature and couch-loving personalities.
Even though these dogs are more laid back, they still need regular walks, gentle exercise, and a balanced lifestyle to stay healthy. Their energy level may be lower than active dogs, but they still depend on you to maintain their physical health, just in a slower, calmer way.
These breeds were often originally bred for specific, slow-paced work, whether water rescues in the Swiss Alps like the Saint Bernard or tracking scents over long distances like the Basset Hound. Their easygoing temperaments make them great companions for kids, families, and cats.
So if your ideal day includes lounging on the couch, watching TV, and enjoying life at a slower pace, one of these low-energy and sleepy dog breeds might be your dream puppy. They’re adorable and excellent companions who love deeply, nap hard, and bring joy to every calm moment spent together.
