Not every dog is built for marathons, and not every dog owner is either! If you’re dreaming of a furry friend who’s content with couch snuggles and short strolls instead of agility courses and park sprints, you’re in the right place. Many lovable dog breeds thrive on minimal exercise, making them ideal companions for apartment dwellers, homebodies, or anyone with a less active lifestyle.
While most dogs benefit from a daily walk and a dash of playtime, not all pups require high-octane adventures to stay happy and healthy. In fact, some breeds are perfectly pleased with lounging beside you on the sofa after a few minutes of fetch or a casual stroll around the block. These mellow canines bring joy without demanding intense workouts.
In this article, we’ve rounded up the top low-exercise dog breeds that are perfect for those who want the companionship of a dog without the need for nonstop action. From snuggly lap dogs to laid-back loungers, there’s a perfect pup for every pace of life.
Low-Exercise Dog Breeds
1. French Bulldog
With their iconic bat ears and endearing expressions, French Bulldogs are among the most beloved small breeds worldwide. They are smart, playful, and adaptable, as per the AKC, traits that make them perfect companions for a low-maintenance lifestyle.
Originally bred to be lap dogs, this low-maintenance dog breed is naturally inclined to enjoy indoor lounging and short bursts of activity. A daily walk or a brief backyard romp is typically all they need to stay happy and healthy.
Their compact, muscular bodies don’t demand hours of exercise, and they much prefer curling up on the couch to running laps.
Grooming is refreshingly easy thanks to their short, smooth coats. A weekly brush using a mitt or hound glove helps manage shedding and keeps their skin healthy by distributing natural oils. Facial folds need regular cleaning to avoid irritation.
Frenchies also shine in obedience or agility with the right approach. Though they can be a bit stubborn, they respond well to positive reinforcement and thrive on attention and affection from their humans.
These adaptable charmers are fantastic for apartment living and gel well with children, other pets, and urban environments. Their cheerful, alert personalities make them both loyal companions and delightful watchdogs.
2. Pug
Pugs, with their trademark smooshed faces and curled tails, have charmed their way through history, from ancient China to European royal courts. They were likely introduced to England in the 17th century by Dutch traders, as per Britannica, and quickly became beloved companion dogs.
These small yet sturdy canines have a muscular, square-shaped frame and expressive, dark eyes that practically beg for cuddles. Their short coats, available in shades like black, silver, or fawn, require only weekly brushing and occasional baths to stay sleek and clean.
When it comes to energy, Pugs keep things low-key. A couple of short walks or some indoor play is typically enough to meet their moderate exercise needs. However, their brachycephalic structure makes them prone to overheating, so activity should be limited in hot or humid weather.
Face wrinkles need extra attention to stay clean and infection-free, and their nails should be trimmed regularly. As a breed prone to obesity, Pugs benefit from portion-controlled meals and minimal snacking.
Because of their unique anatomy, they often snore and may be affected by brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), which sometimes requires veterinary care. Regular check-ups can help manage these issues effectively.
Pugs are playful in short spurts; they’ll happily chase a ball, though returning it might not be guaranteed. Their gentle nature, adaptability, and penchant for lounging make them ideal for apartment dwellers or those seeking a more relaxed canine companion.
3. Bulldog
Bulldogs, known for their signature smushed faces and relaxed demeanor, are quintessential couch companions. As members of the Utility group, they were bred for specific, non-sporting functions, and today they’re mostly content snoozing beside their humans rather than sprinting through open fields.
According to PDSA, Bulldogs are severely brachycephalic, meaning their flat faces can contribute to serious health concerns. Because of this, their exercise should always be gentle and timed during cooler parts of the day.
With their adorable and calm personalities, Bulldogs get along well with children and other pets when properly socialized. They require minimal grooming, just a weekly brush and daily cleaning of their facial wrinkles to prevent infections.
Exercise-wise, they benefit from short, slow walks and light play to avoid joint strain and overheating. A daily stroll around the block usually does the trick, making them ideal for less active owners or apartment living.
Despite their slow pace, Bulldogs enjoy a brisk walk and thrive on a structured routine that keeps their weight in check. A balanced diet is essential since they are prone to obesity, which can worsen joint and respiratory issues.
Their sturdy frame and loyal temperament come with some potential costs. Bulldogs often need vet care for skin, dental, and orthopedic issues. Pet insurance and regular check-ups are wise investments for this lovable but medically sensitive breed.
4. Bolognese
The Bolognese may have the poise of royalty, but this petite pup is far from demanding when it comes to exercise. They typically stand around 10-12 inches tall and weigh between 6-10 pounds, as noted by AKC, making them the perfect pint-sized partner for quieter households.
With a long, flocked white coat that never curls but always looks fashionably tousled, this breed brings charm to every room. Their historic ties to European nobility, think Catherine the Great and Louis XIV, explain their natural affinity for pampering and companionship.
Though capable of a full hour’s walk, most Bolognese are just as content puttering around a small garden or stretching their legs on a short stroll through the neighborhood. Their calm nature and low energy needs make them ideal for apartment living or as lap dogs for seniors.
As a breed developed from the bichon family, the Bolognese excels at one thing above all: being with their people. They adore human company and often form deep, affectionate bonds with their family members.
Thanks to their small size, they’re easy to carry, perfect for outings where paws might get tired. This flexibility makes them a “take-anywhere” dog for owners who prefer cuddles over cardio.
Low-maintenance in both personality and movement, the Bolognese thrives on routine and gentle play. With regular brushing and minimal walking, they offer all the fluff without the fitness boot camp.
5. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu, a pint-sized royal with an ancient Chinese lineage, is one of the top contenders for low-energy dog breeds. These compact companions typically weigh between 9–16 pounds when fully grown, making their exercise needs wonderfully modest.
Originally bred to be indoor lap warmers in imperial palaces, Shih Tzus are content with a leisurely walk or a short indoor play session. Their short legs and love for lounging make them perfectly suited for life in smaller spaces or households with a calm lifestyle.
These dogs thrive with gentle routines. A brief stroll around the block offers just enough mental stimulation from new smells and sights, while a quick game of tug-of-war or fetch in the living room keeps them happily entertained.
Shih Tzus also enjoy games that involve their humans. From hide-and-seek to learning simple tricks, they’re eager to please, especially if a treat is involved.
Though calm by nature, they still need some form of daily exercise to avoid restlessness and maintain a healthy weight. Think less marathon training and more plush-toy patrol.
6. Mastiff
Massive yet mellow, the Mastiff is a breed that embodies gentle strength and a love for lounging. Hills Pet states that these giants can weigh up to 200 pounds and stand over 30 inches tall, but they require minimal exercise.
Despite their size, Mastiffs don’t crave intense activity. In fact, they prefer short daily strolls or relaxed play sessions to stay happy and healthy. Their leisurely pace and laid-back demeanor make them ideal companions for calm households.
Their enormous stature is paired with a heart to match; these dogs are famously devoted and form strong bonds with their families. However, early socialization is essential to ensure their protective instincts don’t turn into over-guarding.
Outings should be scheduled during cooler times of the day, as this breed can overheat easily. Their droopy jowls and signature snoring may require a bit of tolerance (and perhaps a few doggy bibs), but the trade-off is a loyal and peaceful housemate.
Their coat is short and low-maintenance, needing only weekly brushing and an occasional wipe-down. A Mastiff’s grooming needs are as low-key as their energy level.
Though not built for marathons, Mastiffs are content with life’s slower rhythms, preferring cozy companionship over constant motion.
7. Pekingese
With its lion-like mane and royal attitude, the Pekingese is a compact, excellent companion dog that belongs to the toy group. Weighing between 6 to 14 pounds and standing no taller than nine inches, this breed carries itself with dignified charm and a signature rolling gait thanks to its bowed limbs and sturdy build.
Recognizable by their flattened face, oversized eyes, and V-shaped nose wrinkle, Pekingese exude personality. Their large, rounded heads are framed by long, hanging ears and a glorious plume of a tail arched gracefully over their backs.
Pekingese are “loyal, affectionate, and regal in manner,” which perfectly captures their confident yet cuddly temperament. They bond deeply with their people and happily lounge the day away in their favorite cozy spot.
Though they’re relatively inactive, they still enjoy the occasional indoor romp or a stroll in pleasant weather. This toy breed’s luxurious double coat does require regular grooming to prevent matting, but their actual exercise needs remain minimal. A brisk shuffle around the living room or garden will usually keep them content.
Pet parents should monitor their diet closely. Pekingese need only small portions and are prone to weight gain. Add in a snore or two, and you’ve got the ultimate low-energy breed with a royal twist.
Conclusion
Not all dogs need miles of daily running to stay content. As we’ve seen, breeds like the Pekingese, Mastiff, Bolognese, Shih Tzu, French Bulldog, and others are perfectly suited for a more relaxed lifestyle. Whether it’s their compact size, laid-back attitude, or brachycephalic build, these pups thrive on brief walks, indoor games, and quality time with their humans.
For first-time dog owners, these low-maintenance dog breeds are a great choice, offering companionship without the demands of high-intensity activity. While active dogs may require constant stimulation, these calmer canines prefer a cozy nap to a jog in the park. That doesn’t mean skipping exercise altogether; even couch-loving companions need light movement and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy.
If you’re still exploring options, don’t overlook gentle, affectionate breeds like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, the charming Basset Hound, or the friendly Boston Terrier. All three are known for their loving dispositions. With the right routine and a little attention, these breeds make ideal pets for anyone seeking a slower-paced, snuggle-filled lifestyle.
