There is a general misconception about dogs! People think all dogs are filled with an unlimited supply of energy and would always be eager to avail themselves of any opportunity to run outdoors at any point in time!
Well, that’s absolutely wrong! Not all dogs are wired like that. Rather, there are so many dog breeds out there that are born to lounge. They absolutely despise the idea of playing outdoors in scorching heat or unamusing cold.
These low-energy dogs are big snugglers. For a lazy pet owner who is already over-loaded with their job tasks with no work-life balance, a low-energy dog with low exercise needs is an absolute gem. It fits into his lifestyle effortlessly, making sure he doesn’t have to make any extra efforts for its mental and physical stimulation.
Let’s scoop out some low-exercise need dog breeds that will gel into your lazy life with absolute comfort and ease.
Low Exercise Need Dog Breeds
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Recommended exercise duration: 1 hour of exercise per day
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel would be a perfect fit in your home if you lead a lazy, low-energy life.
They love to lounge! Not keen on running outdoors and playing fetch for many hours, these dogs are content when all they have to do in a day is sleep on their favourite rug!
Well, having said that, it is important to mention that these dogs are not profoundly low-energy. Rather, they have moderate energy levels, making them appropriate for indoor games. They will gladly go out for a quick walk with you or even play a puzzle game.
Once they are back from their stroll, they would curl up on the rug and have a good nap!
Nonetheless, you need to be cautious about their health, as AKC mentions. These dogs are prone to some health issues, including Mitral Valve Disease (more specific in older age).
Being highly adaptable, these dogs will adjust to varying living situations. No matter it’s a small apartment or a massive villa, this canine companion would lead a satisfactory life.
2. Pug
Recommended exercise duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour per day
Pug, just like the Cavalier, comes with moderate energy levels.
It would surely run around in the house and love to play with the kids. However, it wouldn’t require strenuous exercise sessions for its mental stimulation.
Despite the fact that they require minimal exercise, it is necessary to provide them with regular physical activity in some way or another. Otherwise, they would end up getting obese, which leads to severe breathing problems.
When you take your pet outdoors, you need to ensure the weather isn’t too hot. Otherwise, it may end up overheating, making it more tired than usual.
As they are brachycephalic when compared to other dogs, extensive physical exercise can impact their health negatively.
3. Bulldog
Recommended exercise duration: Half an hour to 1 hour per day
Bulldogs have the tendency to get tired easily. This is why it is recommended that they are not given very strenuous exercises.
For their appropriate mental and physical stimulation, daily exercise is a must. However, pet parents can split these exercise sessions into small parts. This way, the stimulation needs are met, but the dog doesn’t get over-tired.
This low-maintenance dog in terms of exercise and workouts is a great choice for seniors who themselves have limited energy to perform daily activities. They get a good companion in the form of a Bulldog, but don’t have to do anything extra for the pet.
Unlike high-energy dog breeds that keep running around the house, Britannica claims these dogs are calm and provide silent companionship to seniors.
4. Basset Hound
Recommended exercise duration: An hour a day
Though this dog comes with low to moderate exercise needs, you need to be careful of one thing: its attention needs are high!
This dog is always looking for attention, AKC says. They have to be around their family members at all times, whether indoors or outdoors. If you are a super busy owner who always has something else to do, remember that this dog will always try to be close to you, no matter what you are doing!
What makes them excellent companion dogs is their sweet temperament, both with adults and kids.
daily walk at a moderate pace.
Despite the fact that they are not overly active dogs, you still need to take them out for regular walks at a medium pace.
5. French Bulldog
Recommended exercise duration: 30-60 minutes, daily
Are you an apartment-living pet owner who wants a dog with minimal exercise needs and the least possible energy?
Well, a French Bulldog is just the right dog for you!
These low-maintenance dogs require minimal grooming and don’t really ask you for extensive outdoor activities.
Rather, the brachycephalic feature requires pet parents to be cautious and make sure to give it short walks. Low-intensity walks work great for them and provide them with the required mental and physical stimulation.
During the extreme summer season, you should avoid outdoor exercise and switch to indoor play. They would love interactive games and fun toys.
6. Shih Tzu
Recommended exercise duration: 30 minutes to an hour
The tiny Shih Tzu is also the dog that requires minimal daily exercise to stay active and physically stimulated.
Just like Bulldogs, they are also flat-faced, making it difficult to breathe in case of extensive exercise and play sessions. During exercise sessions, make sure to give them plenty of opportunities to relax and cool down.
The exercise needs of these dogs are also specific to various factors. These include their age, fitness, and energy levels, individually.
Once they are done with their exercise, they tend to get lethargic. Resultantly, as soon as they come home, they’ll curl up in bed and go to sleep!
7. Japanese Chin
Recommended exercise duration: Around half an hour a day
Japanese Chin is a low-energy dog breed that has very low exercise needs.
It has such low needs in terms of exercise that you can easily provide it with short play sessions during the day, and it will not only ensure their entertainment but will also mentally stimulate them.
These dogs also have a flattened face, making them unsuitable for canine sports in extreme weather conditions. Long walks are not suitable for them as they can tire them quickly.
Having said that, exercise is still necessary for these dogs as they tend to get overweight easily, which can further lead to numerous health issues.
While planning their diets, it’s necessary to ensure they get high-quality proteins and healthy fats.
Conclusion
Various low-maintenance breeds are easy to manage and maintain. These wonderful companions have low exercise needs and requirements. A simple walk around the corner and some indoor playtime is enough for their mental stimulation. Light exercise is enough for these low-energy breeds. Chinese crested, Boston terrier, and English bulldog are some other examples of easygoing companions.
