Ever met a dog who treats every couch, bed, or sunny patch of floor like their personal nap zone? Some pups are masters of relaxation — the champions of snoozing who can drift off anywhere, anytime.
If your furry friend spends most of the day napping, you might be living with one of the world’s sleepy dog breeds. Some dogs are simply built for rest; they love curling up on the couch and snoozing through life’s hustle.
These lazy dogs are calm, gentle, and happiest when surrounded by peace, making them ideal companions for laid-back families or apartment living. They’re simply experts at living life at their own calm, dreamy pace.
According to a study, younger dogs tend to sleep longer than older ones. The research also found that breed type, body size, and environmental conditions such as feeding routines and daily activity play a big role in how much a dog sleeps.
This explains why some low-energy dog breeds seem to nap all day. In this guide, we’ll explore the calmest and sleepiest dog breeds that never seem to wake up.
Sleepy Dog Breeds That Never Seem To Wake Up
1. Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is often called the ultimate sleepy dog breed, known for its calm nature and love of long naps.
With their soulful eyes and slow movements, these lazy dogs prefer lounging around the house rather than chasing after toys. Their gentle temperament makes them perfect for peaceful homes where relaxation is part of the routine.
Why Basset Hounds Sleep So Much
Basset Hounds have slower metabolisms and low energy levels, which naturally make them one of the sleepiest dog breeds. They sleep around more than 18 hours a day. Their short legs and heavy bodies mean they tire easily, so they often choose long periods of rest over activity.
For owners who love calm, low-energy companions, the Basset Hound brings warmth, loyalty, and endless cuddles, always ready for another nap.
2. English Bulldog
The English Bulldog is the definition of a laid-back companion, famous for its relaxed personality and fondness for sleeping the day away.
With their stocky build and calm demeanor, these gentle dogs would rather nap beside their owners than engage in strenuous exercise. Their easygoing nature makes them ideal for anyone who enjoys a slow and peaceful lifestyle.
Why English Bulldogs Love to Nap
As noted by Purrfect Grooming, large and brachycephalic breeds like the English Bulldog generally sleep more due to slower metabolisms. They typically sleep more than 18 hours a day.
Their compact bodies and shorter snouts can make breathing slightly more effortful, encouraging more downtime and frequent naps.
For those who appreciate quiet moments and cuddly company, the English Bulldog brings comfort, charm, and a whole lot of snoring to every home.
3. Great Dane
Known as the gentle giant of the dog world, the Great Dane is both majestic and mellow. Despite their impressive size, these peaceful companions prefer a quiet day filled with naps over high-energy activities.
Their relaxed personality and affectionate nature make them perfect for families who enjoy a relaxed and cozy atmosphere.
Why Great Danes Sleep So Much
Their massive frames require more energy to move and maintain, leading to longer recovery periods and frequent naps. They usually nap between 16-18 hours per day.
Large breeds tend to have slower metabolisms, making sleep an essential part of their routine for proper rest and muscle recovery.
For owners seeking a loyal, calm, and low-energy companion, the Great Dane’s peaceful spirit and love for sleep make them a dream pet.
4. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is a calm and independent dog that enjoys a slow lifestyle. With its lion-like coat, deep-set eyes, and signature blue-black tongue, this breed stands out for its regal appearance.
Known for being quiet and self-sufficient, the Chow Chow loves to nap—often choosing a peaceful corner over cuddling beside its owner.
Why Chow Chows Love to Sleep
This breed spends a large portion of the day resting, thanks to its low activity level and serene nature. Chow Chows have a slower metabolism, meaning they naturally prefer relaxation to high-energy play.
According to PetMD, however, this relaxed routine can lead to obesity and health issues like diabetes or arthritis. Balanced nutrition and regular but gentle exercise help keep these serene sleepers healthy while they enjoy their well-deserved rest.
With proper care, these dogs remain happy, balanced, and always ready for another cozy nap.
5. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are calm, affectionate giants known for their history as heroic alpine rescuers — but these days, they’re more likely to be found napping than saving lives.
Their enormous size and gentle personality make them one of the sleepiest breeds, often resting up to 18 hours a day.
Why Saint Bernards Love to Sleep
Dogs that are no longer bred for active work naturally spend more time lying around, with snoozing at the top of their agenda. Once tireless rescue workers, modern Saint Bernards live a slower, easier life where their calm temperament thrives.
While working breeds stay alert for physical tasks, relaxed companions like the Saint Bernard adapt their sleep schedules to peaceful home environments — proving that big hearts need big naps.
6. Pekingese
The Pekingese is a calm, affectionate lapdog that loves lounging and daydreaming. Originally bred as companions for members of the Chinese elite, they were often carried in the sleeves of their owners, which meant they had to remain still for long periods, as per Britannica.
This history helped shape their relaxed, low-energy temperament, making them one of the sleepiest dog breeds today.
Why Pekingese Sleep So Much
Some dogs naturally start their day on their own terms, and Pekingese are no exception. These dogs spend most of their day resting, with only short bursts of activity, reflecting their breed’s history of minimal physical demands.
Their compact size and calm personality also mean they require less exercise, preferring to nap in comfort.
The amount of sleep dogs need varies by breed. Unlike working dogs, Pekingese aren’t bred for strenuous tasks, so resting dominates their routine. This makes them perfect for owners seeking a relaxed, low-energy companion.
7. Pug
The Pug is a small, charming breed known for its playful yet lazy personality. While they enjoy short bursts of activity, most Pugs prefer lounging in a cozy spot, whether it’s your lap, bed, or favorite chair.
Their affectionate and easygoing nature makes them perfect companions for owners who enjoy calm, relaxed pets.
Why Pugs Sleep So Much
Pugs are naturally low-energy dogs, and their sleep patterns reflect this trait. Pugs spend a significant part of their day resting, only engaging in play when motivated, often by food.
Unlike working dogs’ behavior that needs to stay alert for tasks, Pugs don’t have demanding physical roles, so napping dominates their daily routine.
Most dogs spend around half the day asleep, 80% relaxing, and only 20% active. Pugs, with their small size and peaceful temperament, fit perfectly into the group of sleepy dog breeds that never seem to wake up.
8. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu may look like a little royalty, but behind their elegant coat and sweet face lies a true expert in napping.
These loving dogs love curling up in warm, comfortable spots and can easily spend much of the day snoozing beside their favorite humans. Their gentle temperament makes them ideal for families who enjoy a quiet, relaxed environment.
Why Shih Tzus Sleep So Much
Shih Tzus naturally fall into the category of low-energy, sleepy dog breeds. Unlike working dogs that must stay alert for tasks such as guarding or rescuing, Shih Tzus were bred as companion dogs and have no high-energy duties.
Puppies, similar to human babies, need even more rest, up to 18–20 hours a day, to recharge their growing bodies. Adult Shih Tzus typically sleep 14–16 hours daily, enjoying frequent naps throughout the day.
Their relaxed lifestyle and love for rest make Shih Tzus one of the most peaceful and easygoing companions.
9. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a small, friendly breed that adores relaxation and sleep. While they enjoy short play sessions and occasional walks, these little dogs are happiest when curled up in a cozy spot, often preferring the comfort of their owner’s bed.
Their affectionate nature makes them excellent companions for families seeking a low-energy pet.
Why Lhasa Apsos Sleep So Much
Lhasa Apsos naturally fall into the category of sleepy dog breeds. After brief bursts of activity, they tend to rest for extended periods, conserving energy and enjoying peaceful naps.
Their small size, low-energy temperament, and love of comfort make frequent sleep a central part of their daily routine.
With their friendly disposition and relaxed lifestyle, Lhasa Apsos are perfect for anyone who wants a serene, loyal, and nap-loving companion.
Conclusion
Sleepy dog breeds bring a unique charm to any household with their calm, relaxed, and loving nature. From gentle giants like Saint Bernards to small lapdogs like Shih Tzus and Pekingese, these dogs excel at providing quiet companionship and comfort.
Their love for naps is not just a quirk — it often reflects their breed traits, slower metabolism, size, and historical roles as companions rather than high-energy working dogs.
Understanding why these breeds sleep so much helps owners provide the best care, including appropriate exercise, a balanced diet, and cozy resting spots.
While they may spend much of the day snoozing, these laid-back dogs reward their families with loyalty, affection, and peaceful energy. For anyone seeking a low-maintenance, loving companion, sleepy dog breeds are the perfect choice for a calm and cozy home environment.
They remind us that sometimes, the best moments are spent resting together.
