Have you ever wondered if there’s a dog out there that’s both uncommon and unbelievably calm—something beyond the usual lap dogs and gentle giants you hear about? What if the rarest pups also happen to be the chillest?
Calm dog breeds are recognized for their ability to stay composed in various situations. Rather than barking excessively, lunging at strangers, or becoming overwhelmed, these dogs tend to respond to the world in a more balanced, stress-free manner. Their steady behavior makes them ideal for calm households and even therapeutic settings.
The 7 chill dog breeds ahead don’t just bring quiet companionship, they thrive around kids, excel as therapy dogs, and some even shine in roles working alongside other animals. Looking for a rare dog with a heart of gold and a relaxed personality? If not yet, you definitely will be once you meet the gentle dog breeds on this list.
Rare Dog Breeds With Calm Temperaments
1. Otterhound
The Otterhound is a rare British scent hound with a goofy charm and an even-keeled personality. Once prized for otter hunting, this breed now enjoys a peaceful family life. Their calm nature and sweet temperament make them excellent pets for households that enjoy affectionate, low-maintenance dogs.
Naturally Mellow and Independent
Otterhounds are known for their gentle demeanor and quiet behavior indoors. Despite their large size, they rarely display boundless energy or high-strung traits. This makes them great chill dog companions for owners who appreciate balance and tranquility in a pet.
Adaptable Yet Playful Nature
They enjoy daily walks and occasional play fetch, but don’t require intense exercise to stay happy. These gentle giants tend to get along with kids, small animals, and other dogs when socialized early. Though stubborn, they respond well to training when motivated by fun or treats.
2. Chinook
The Chinook (pronounced Sha-Nook) is a rare American sled dog developed in New Hampshire during the early 1900s. According to PetMD, it was created by explorer Arthur Walden by crossing a Siberian Husky with a Mastiff-type dog, resulting in a calm, loyal breed with strength and heart.
Even-Tempered Companion With Strong Roots
Though once bred for tough expeditions, Chinooks are among the most even-tempered dogs today. Their gentle demeanor and quiet nature make them perfect for families, therapy work, or homes with kids.
They rarely bark, tend to be cautious with strangers, and offer calm companionship without overwhelming energy or behavior issues.
Trainable and Affectionate Housemates
Chinooks are smart, responsive dogs that thrive on positive reinforcement. Their willingness to please and affectionate personality make them easy to train, even for first-time owners.
Whether cuddling with children or playing with other dogs, Chinooks show patience, sensitivity, and a natural instinct to form strong bonds with the entire household.
3. Kooikerhondje
Pronounced “koy-ker-hond-yuh,” this Dutch spaniel-type breed was once used to lure ducks into traps. Today, the Kooikerhondje is a friendly, quiet dog that’s both alert and affectionate, making it a hidden gem among calm dog breeds.
Gentle with a Hint of Independence
Kooikerhondjes are affectionate without being clingy. Their sweet demeanor makes them excellent with children and small animals, although they can be reserved with strangers. Their temperament makes them an excellent match for calm households.
A Playful Yet Balanced Companion
Though active enough to enjoy games and outdoor time, they tend to settle quickly indoors. Kooikers enjoy learning tricks, making them great for owners who like to train chill dogs without dealing with high-energy chaos.
4. Sloughi
The Sloughi is a North African sighthound with a refined yet athletic build. Slightly taller than long, this breed carries lean muscles over a narrow frame, giving off an aura of quiet elegance. Known for their loyalty and grace, Sloughis are reserved but form strong emotional bonds with their humans.
Quiet Confidence and Grace
According to WebMD, the Sloughi temperament is defined by class and reserved nobility. While they may seem distant with strangers, these dogs become deeply affectionate once they trust you.
Rated four out of five by the American Kennel Club for family affection, they are loyal companions who express love through calm presence, not overexcitement.
Longevity and Low-Maintenance Elegance
Sloughis can live 10 to 15 years, making them a long-term companion. Their physical traits—wedge-shaped head, oval paws, and a graceful, low-hanging tail—add to their quiet appeal.
They require modest exercise and minimal grooming, making them ideal for calm households seeking a loyal, elegant, and low-maintenance dog.
5. Lagotto Romagnolo
Hailing from Italy, the Lagotto Romagnolo was bred to sniff out truffles, not trouble. Their curly coats and soulful eyes are charming, but it’s their relaxed, affectionate nature that makes them one of the best-kept secrets among calm, rare dog breeds.
Sweet-Natured and Affectionate
Lagotto is a cheerful dog with a sweet temperament. They love playing with their humans and are known to be super social and responsive to training. Despite their working-dog background, they’re easygoing and fit well in calm family homes.
Highly Intelligent and Obedient
This breed learns quickly and enjoys games like fetch or puzzle toys. Their intelligence means they rarely develop behavior problems if given attention, exercise, and love. They’re also a good match for active pet parents looking to train therapy dogs or responsive pups.
6. Bergamasco Sheepdog
With origins dating back thousands of years, the Bergamasco Sheepdog was likely brought from the Orient to Europe by nomadic shepherds. Valued for its calm nature and herding intelligence, this rare dog breed is still used today in parts of Switzerland and Italy as a working dog with minimal human direction.
Watchful Yet Non-Aggressive
According to Omlet, Bergamascos have a brave, steady temperament and remain ever-watchful over their home. Though not aggressive, they’re excellent alert dogs and will calmly notify you of anything unusual.
Their protective instinct, paired with gentle behavior, makes them great for families wanting chill dogs with a quiet sense of duty.
Independent Thinkers With Deep Loyalty
This breed can herd livestock entirely on its own, showcasing remarkable independence. Yet, with their humans, Bergamascos form strong bonds and enjoy companionship.
They thrive on daily walks and thoughtful interaction but never demand constant attention, making them one of the lowest-maintenance and even-tempered companions among calm dog breeds.
7. Canaan Dog
The Canaan Dog is Israel’s national breed, known for its independence, loyalty, and dignified calmness. Though still relatively rare, this ancient breed adapts well to modern life and has a temperament that surprises many new owners.
Naturally Reserved and Alert
Unlike many high-energy dogs, Canaan Dogs are even-tempered and composed. They are affectionate with their family but aloof with strangers, making them great, calm dogs for people who want loyalty without clinginess.
Healthy, Hardy, and Smart
Canaans tend to be healthy with few genetic issues and thrive on regular exercise and mental stimulation. They’re intelligent enough to train yet independent enough to think for themselves, an ideal pet for owners who respect a dog’s natural instincts.
Conclusion
When searching for the calmest dog breeds, many pet owners are surprised to discover that some of the gentlest and most intelligent companions come from rare and overlooked backgrounds. From the loyal Chinook to the serene Sloughi, these breeds offer strong bonds, sweet temperaments, and peaceful companionship for the right families.
Whether you’re looking for a calm dog to train, a gentle pet for your children, or simply a quiet presence in your home, these pups provide the perfect mix of personality and calmness. While they may not be as well-known as a Bulldog or Golden Retriever, these rare breeds live their best life by your side, quietly loyal, intelligent, and full of love.
