Like human beings, dogs do have a lazy side. But because of their tremendous working abilities and accomplishments, they are often mistaken for being 24/7 on work and in active mode.
In the canine world, there are many breeds, regardless of their size or temperament, that enjoy spending their entire day lying on the floor or curled up with their favorite person. It also depends on the house; every house setting is not made to handle an energetic dog.
But there is one thing that low-energy or couch potato dogs do need, that is: regular walks, little exercise and minimum grooming to make them look neat.
Moreover, before picking on the breed, it will be helpful if owners learn about the breed’s history and for what purpose it was bred, as recommended by Purina.
If you are a lazy owner who wants a dog that matches your temperament and does not have any hectic exercising needs, relax, we have got you covered with the nine most relaxed dog breeds.
Most Relaxed Dog Breeds Perfect for Couch‑Potato Owners
1. Pug
People say Pugs are one of the goofiest dog breeds that are enjoyable because of their charming, playful, docile and loving nature. They know very well how to blend playfulness with relaxation, followed by short bursts of energy. They enjoy being the center of attention and will sit next to you and watch seasons all night.
They are easy-going dogs that have minimal exercise needs for two reasons. First, their low energy, secondly, because of their flat face, which causes breathing issues. They enjoy several short walks of 15-20 minutes and a game of fetch.
As a low-maintenance dog, they require brushing once a week, which helps in controlling shedding. They are wonderful companions for people who spend a lot of time at home.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
When you hear the term “love sponge,” think of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. This affectionate breed earns the nickname through its gentle nature, sweet temperament, and strong desire to please its owners. Highly adaptable, the Cavalier thrives in a variety of living situations, from active family homes to apartments, and is equally content spending quiet time with more laid-back owners.
They enjoy hanging with their owners and cuddling with them. They have moderate exercise requirements that can be fulfilled by 20-30 minutes of walking and playtime. When socialized and trained properly, they get along with children, cats and other dogs.
They are easy to groom dogs with regular brushing and bathing once a week. As they don’t demand constant activity and have a calm and friendly nature, they draw the attention of many lazy owners.
3. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is one of the amazing breeds that we often know as a “nanny dog”. Because of its affectionate, gentle, sweet-tempered and protective nature around children, it has won this title. It is a kind-hearted giant, regardless of its size qualifies as a lazy owner because it is neither hyperactive nor does it prefer going outside when it’s extremely hot.
To provide them mental stimulation, owners can take them for walks, swimming and occasional hikes. These gentle giants are prone to obesity, so feeding them a balanced diet is important. As they spend most of their time around kids, early, consistent and obedience training works best for them.
Newfies are content at spending most of their day relaxing alongside their family, and can develop separation anxiety if left alone. Don’t leave them without interactive toys, says PetMD.
4. Irish Wolfhound
The tallest dog breed in the canine kingdom, the Irish Wolfhound, is a calm, dignified, loyal and sweet-tempered dog. It is a powerful breed that was bred for the protection of livestock from wolves in Ireland. Tough from the outside, softies from the inside, is what describes them best.
These majestic and serene dogs are easygoing, but they require regular exercise to keep health problems like obesity away. But this does not mean extensive exercising; they enjoy daily walks, playtime, and agility or tracking. Where other dogs demand attention, they prefer napping, staying at home, and sleeping on the couch.
It makes a wonderful low-energy dog for lazy owners, and grooming at home is easier, brushing twice and bathing when needed. But the big size could be difficult to handle.
5. Saint Bernard
We know Saint Bernard as a brave, muscular, and powerful breed that was bred to rescue travelers stuck in the mountains of the Swiss Alps. From the breed’s history, one might assume them as a high-energy breed, but they are playful, charming, and calm dogs that will lounge around the house the whole day.
They make excellent family dogs because of their calm temperament and tolerance, that makes them to get along with children and serve as their nanny, too. However, early socialization and training remain necessary for them. They require daily an hour of exercise followed by short walks and low-impact activities.
These dogs shed twice a year, so regular brushing can help minimize shedding. Along with grooming, exercising and training, regular vet visits are important as they are prone to bone cancer and joint issues.
6. Greyhound
The Greyhound is a paradox that would surprise people by relaxing on the couch or curling up with its favorite human. And on the other hand, it would win a race because of its incredible speed. It is an athletic, affectionate, even-tempered and intelligent breed.
Nothing makes them as happy as sprinting does. Give them a safe place to sprint for 90 seconds, and they are done for the day. Other than sprinting, they enjoy running and walking for half an hour. These professional nappers have short, smooth and thin coats, so they can easily get cold.
In winter, they need sweaters and blankets to keep them warm. Other than that, they’re quiet and low-maintenance dogs that will enjoy spending the whole day on a sofa, bed or any cozy corner of the house.
7. Pekingese
The Pekingese is known for its laid-back personality and operating when it feels like. It is an intelligent, opinionated, charming and confident dog that serves as a lap dog. It is known for preferring comfort over excessive exercise sessions. Originally bred to live in palaces, today the breed also follows the same style: relaxed companion, staying calm and on the bed/sofa all day.
These quiet dogs stay happy with low-key owners. While they do not require a lot of exercise, consistent training and socialization remain the priority. Because they can be stubborn at times, and as they serve as guard dogs too, they bark when there is a knock on the door. This can be controlled through proper training.
With low energy, the Pekingese also qualifies for apartment living. But enjoys sticking around their owner and are funny to watch when they jump on the lap for a cuddle.
8. Tibetan Spaniel
Tibetan Spaniels are spunky, energetic, playful and self-confident dogs that are perfect for lazy owners because they love lounging on laps or sofas. This small and cute breed has a distinctive appearance with a plumed tail and feathering and lion’s mane-like fur around their neck.
Their exercise needs are minimal and can be fulfilled through short on-leash walks and fun activities like scent work, snuggling, and fetch, etc. Although it is a high-energy breed, it does not demand constant exercise and mental stimulation. Its long and beautiful coat can be managed by pet parents at home by brushing it occasionally.
Being naturally calm and reserved, they enjoy spending time with their people. While they were bred to be small guardians, they will bark to alert you to any noise, guest, or delivery at the door.
9. Clumber Spaniel
Among all the Spaniels, the Clumber Spaniel is one of the most laid-back, easy-going, affectionate, and calm breeds. This giant furball loves cuddling its favorite human the whole day. While once they were used for hunting, today they are found mellow at home.
Orvis says they are also called “Clumbers for short”. They prefer moderate activity followed by play sessions and daily walks. Other fun activities that they enjoy are: agility, swimming, and simple interactive games. They have a white, flat, and water-resistant coat that sheds moderately and demands regular grooming.
They appeal to couch potato owners because they do not constantly seek any activity, and with the right training and care, they grow into confident and good family dogs.
Conclusion
Usually, people think having a low-energy dog means you can sit blankly with them.
However, that’s not the case; whether you bring home a high-energy breed or a low-energy dog, they do have necessities. Such as moderate exercise that includes brisk walking, play time and light dog sports like fetch, etc. Furthermore, having big dogs like the Newfoundland and Saint Bernard clarifies that, to be a relaxed breed, the size does not count.
Irrespective of the dog’s size or energy levels, daily exercise is important and must not be skipped to keep the dog healthy and mentally stimulated.
