Some dogs live for fetch, long hikes, and zoomies in the yard. But yes, we have some other breeds that are absolute masters of relaxation. The dogs who claim the best spot on the sofa, curl up on your lap, and seem to have their own “nap schedule”.
Does that sound like your dream companion? A little furry companion who loves quiet days and comfy couches. These small dog breeds are not just adorable. They are very calm, affectionate, and famously fond of sleep.
Fluffy cuddle-bugs to pint-sized snorers, we have gathered nine of the most popular small dog breeds that love to snooze. Perfect for anyone who enjoys slow mornings, warm blankets, and peaceful home life.
Fun Fact!
Did you know dogs dream just like humans do? Yep!! According to the AKC, most dogs enter REM sleep after about 20 minutes of snoozing that’s when you will see their paws twitch or hear soft little barks. Small dog breeds tend to dream more often than big dogs because their sleep cycles are shorter. So, yes, that Pug might really be chasing a squirrel in its sleep.
Popular Small Dog Breeds That Love To Snooze
1. Pomeranian
Small dog bursting with personality.
The Pomeranian is that little cute fluff who knows how to steal hearts and pillows.
They have big-dog confidence due to those big personalities, sassy and spunky, as PetMD mentions them, but they also love nothing more than curling up beside their owners for a long nap after playtime.
A small dog breed with a thick double coat perfect for cozy naps.
Playful dog, yet enjoys calm and quiet time indoors.
Ideal for apartment living and owners who love soft snuggles.
We all have seen Pomeranians going gaga with energy, but surprisingly, these dogs are very low-energy dogs indoors. They will happily snooze the afternoon away, mostly when it is too warm outside. The Pomeranian puppies might even sleep for 18-20 hours per day (Yikes, that’s a lot).
Pet parents adore their ability to go from zoomies to zonked out in minutes. Truly one of the popular small dog breeds that love to snooze.
2. Maltese
With those silky coats and loving nature, Maltese dogs are absolute darlings, little charmers, and little bundles of calm energy. They were originally bred as lapdogs for ancient royals, which says a lot about how these pups were born for comfort!
Cute small white dogs with a sweet temperament and gentle demeanor. They absolutely love quality time with owners.
Needs regular grooming but minimal outdoor exercise. Give them training and mental stimulation, but keep the sessions short.
Calm, cuddly, and perfectly happy as a full-time lapdog, or should we say “nap dog”?
The Maltese thrives in cozy homes. They enjoy gentle play indoors but spend most of their days napping in soft blankets or snoozing beside their owners. They can sleep anywhere between 12-14 hours a day.
Perfect for people who love lazy mornings and quiet evenings with their canine companions, these small but lazy dogs are pure peace in fur form.
3. Pug
You can’t talk about lazy dogs without mentioning the Pug, a true icon of comfort!! They are known for their round faces, wrinkly facial expressions, and lovable snores. We can safely say the Pugs are the kings and queens of the couch. True couch potatoes, they are!
Compact size and naturally low-energy dogs
Loves warm laps, soft couches, and endless naps.
Prone to snoring and funny sleep sounds due to the flat face.
They are not highly active, but they still need daily training and proper socialization to be ‘well-mannered’.
Pugs adore human affection. They are social and goofy, but after a few minutes of play, they will head straight for nap number three of the day. But keep an eye on them, they are a brachycephalic breed and are prone to breathing problems. So, sometimes, those snoring sounds might be trouble alarms.
If you are binge-watching Netflix or reading a book, your Pug will be right next to you; snuggled, snoring, and happy!!
4. Shih Tzu
Known to be the famous “lion dog” from China, the Shih Tzu is a royal snorer. These little charmers were bred by Chinese emperors to warm laps in palaces, look like lions, and be a status symbol, and centuries later, they still take that job seriously.
Calm, gentle, and extremely affectionate lapdog.
Needs regular grooming for that beautiful, long hair.
Thrives on spending time indoors with family.
Shih Tzus are among the most popular small dog breeds that love to snooze. and read the Genesis for yourself. The Shih Tzu puppies sleep almost 4 hours more than other dogs; they may get up to 22 hours per day. Adults sleep less than puppies.
They enjoy short walks with those short legs but prefer long naps with their parents. Don’t feel surprised if your Shih Tzu follows the sunbeams around the house and claims the warmest spot for every nap.
5. Pekingese
Again, a miniature lion. If ever a breed was designed for royal relaxation, it is the Pekingese. Another descendant of the Chinese nobility, this Asian dog breed is small, proud, and gloriously fluffy. Like a living throw pillow, don’t you think?
One of the small breeds with a majestic name and a sweet temperament.
Independent dogs, but loyal companions to their humans.
Excellent indoor companion that needs less exercise.
Despite their noble looks, Pekingese dogs are all heart. They enjoy short play sessions but live for naps on your lap or sofa. Their calm nature and loving loyalty make them one of the top lazy dogs adored by modern pet owners.
Oh, and if you have children (toddlers, infants) at home, try to keep an eye. Pekingese dogs do not like “roughhousing” by the children, and they are less tolerant than other affectionate dogs.
6. Japanese Chin
Elegant, mysterious, and totally in love with napping, the Japanese Chin is a delightful little breed that is often compared to cats for their grace and quietness. They are the PERFECT lapdogs. These dogs are even-tempered and loyal to a fault, and they have a knack for curling up on your lap.
Silky coat, expressive eyes, and dignified personality.
Prefers soft spots, pillows, and laps over outdoor adventures.
One of the best small dog breeds for calm and relaxed households, and maybe for apartment dwellers.
This pup adores gentle living. They don’t do much exercise, but they do need regular exercise. Take them out on walks once or twice, a few steps outside the house, and they are ready for another snooze.
For apartment living or retirees, the Japanese Chin is the perfect couch companion and loyal canine pet.
7. Havanese
The national dog of Cuba, the Havanese, is as sweet and sunny as a tropical afternoon nap (You are imagining it). They are friendly, affectionate, and love being with their humans, always if that means curling up together on the couch.
Gentle giants like personality (although they are only seven pounds)
Social and easygoing with extra patience, best for small-sized homes and small spaces.
Enjoys quality time with moderate exercise needs.
Although these dogs have bursts of playfulness, Havanese dogs calm down quickly and love long snoozes. They are not really lazy dogs. They just know how to balance joy and rest more than many other pets.
Perfect for dog lovers who appreciate peaceful companionship and endless cuddles.
8. Brussels Griffon
Small in size but full of character, the Brussels Griffon is one of the funniest little lapdogs you will ever come across. Their quirky expressions and cuddly nature are perfect and make them a dream pet for anyone who loves laughter and naps!
Tiny and affectionate small dog breed with a big personality.
Prefers comfort and human company over outdoor exercise.
Ideal for quiet homes and calm lifestyles.
They have a comic charm, we agree!! But Brussels Griffons are true couch potatoes. They love curling up in blankets, sleeping under your arm, and being your loyal canine companion through lazy Sundays.
If you want a small dog with a huge heart and low energy, this breed makes every nap sweeter.
9. Silky Terrier
This little dog might have a shiny coat and lively eyes, but deep down, they are lovers of peace and comfort. The Silky Terrier enjoys bursts of playtime but is just as happy sinking into soft bedding after a good meal.
‘Beloved companion pets in toy group, ‘ as WebMD describes these Silky Terriers.
Small, graceful dog that is easy to maintain with regular grooming.
Balanced energy, loves short walks, longer naps.
Great family pet that thrives in calm houses.
Silky Terriers are confident yet easygoing dogs. While they are playful (they would love to go for adventures), they also value downtime. Once they bond with their owners, expect them to be glued by your side and to your blanket.
They make perfect nap partners for people who enjoy the quiet joys of home life.
Conclusion
Life is not all about running, jumping, and endless fetch. Sometimes, it is more about curling up on the couch with your pooch and letting the world slow down. These popular small dog breeds that love to snooze are the perfect example of that in the dog world for pet owners.
They are perfect for apartment living, small spaces, or anyone who just wants a peaceful furry friend who enjoys naps as much as cuddles. And the best lapdog is the one who warms your heart every time they snuggle close and make you forget about the day’s worries.
