Ever wondered which dogs might out-nap even the sleepiest cat? While some pups seem to run on endless energy, others are expert loungers who take relaxation to an elite level. Yes, many dog breeds are true masters of the nap, perfectly content spending their days dozing in sunbeams or curling up for long, peaceful snoozes.
Just like people, dogs have different energy levels, and their sleep habits reflect it. Breeds that were developed for companionship, low-intensity work, or simply lounging by their humans often need more rest than those bred for herding, guarding, or chasing game.
Larger dogs, in particular, tend to require more downtime to recharge, while smaller, high-energy breeds may need less sleep overall. These differences make some breeds ideal for a laid-back household or for pet parents who enjoy a quiet, cozy companion.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to dog breeds that embrace the art of napping like professionals. From the majestic giants who nap to grow, to the pint-sized pups who dream as much as they play—these sleepy canines are sure to steal your heart (and your favorite spot on the couch).
Sleepy Dog Breeds That Master The Art Of Napping
1. Great Dane
With a commanding presence and towering height, the Great Dane, often dubbed the “Apollo of Dogs,” is a breed that surprises many with its calm and sleepy demeanor. WebMD states that male dogs typically stand between 30 and 32 inches tall, whereas females generally measure from 28 to 30 inches in height.
Despite their regal stature and watchful nature, these gentle giants are famously laid-back. Originating in Germany, the Great Dane was bred for boar hunting but has since evolved into a patient, affectionate, and noble companion.
Weighing between 110 to 175 pounds, their massive frames require ample rest to maintain balance and energy. Their short coat comes in a range of patterns, including the iconic black-and-white harlequin.
Exercise
While Great Danes are not overly active, they still benefit from routine, low-impact activity to support joint and muscle health. A couple of brisk walks—about 20 to 30 minutes total per day—are usually sufficient.
They’re most energetic during their younger years, but after reaching maturity, they often prefer lounging over leaping. Due to their size, it’s crucial to avoid overexertion, especially during growth stages.
Fact: Great Danes are among the sleepiest dog breeds, frequently dozing for up to 18 hours a day.
2. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow, often referred to as the “lion dog” for its regal mane and proud posture, is a breed that radiates ancient elegance. The AKC portrays the Chow Chow—an ancient, versatile breed from China—as a strong, deep-chested canine noble, exuding an aura of mystery and enduring elegance. This dignified breed served as a multipurpose working dog.
Chows typically weigh between 45 to 70 pounds and stand around 17 to 20 inches tall. Their dense double coat comes in a variety of colors—black, red, cinnamon, cream, and blue—and their signature blue-black tongue and scowling expression give them a uniquely noble look.
Classified under the Non-Sporting group, these dogs boast a life span of 8 to 12 years and are known for their calm, independent demeanor.
Exercise
Chow Chows have moderate exercise needs. While they enjoy a leisurely daily walk or short bursts of structured play, they are not fans of vigorous activity. These dogs are sensitive to heat and should avoid exertion during warmer times of the day.
Their preference for quiet relaxation makes them ideal for low-energy households, as long as they receive consistent, gentle activity to prevent stiffness or weight gain.
Fact: Despite their love for long naps, Chow Chows are surprisingly clean and fastidious, often likened to cats in their self-grooming habits.
3. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu, often dubbed the “Lion Dog,” is a regal and affectionate breed with deep roots in Chinese history. PetMD notes that these small “lion dogs”—a reference to the meaning of their name—were linked to Buddhism and selectively bred to resemble lions.
Originally bred as lap companions for royalty, these compact charmers typically stand 8 to 11 inches tall and weigh between 9 to 16 pounds. Their luxurious double coat comes in a variety of colors and requires regular grooming to maintain its signature elegance.
With a sweet expression and large, soulful eyes, the Shih Tzu is a breed that naturally commands cuddles. Classified in the Toy Group, they boast a life span of 10 to 16 years and are widely adored for their calm, easygoing nature.
Exercise
Despite their fondness for lounging, Shih Tzus still benefit from light activity. Around 30 minutes to 1 hour of daily exercise—such as a short walk or playful indoor games—helps maintain their health and prevents sluggishness. Their compact size and adaptable temperament also make them ideal for apartment living.
Fun Fact: Shih Tzus can sleep anywhere from 12 to 14 hours a day, happily snoozing alongside their favorite human companions.
4. Mastiff
The Mastiff, one of the oldest and most massive dog breeds, is a gentle giant with a heart as big as its frame. Belonging to the Working Group, this colossal breed originated from ancient Molosser dogs and has long been revered for its strength, loyalty, and protective instincts.
Male Mastiffs typically stand at least 30 inches tall and weigh anywhere between 160 to 230 pounds, while females are slightly smaller. With a broad, wrinkled head, black mask, and dense coat in shades of fawn, apricot, or brindle, the Mastiff has a commanding yet calm presence.
These dogs are naturally reserved, affectionate with family, and surprisingly patient, making them ideal cuddle buddies on lazy afternoons.
Exercise
Though the Mastiff is mostly sedentary and can sleep up to 18 hours a day, it still needs moderate daily exercise—about 30 to 60 minutes—to maintain a healthy weight and prevent joint issues.
Over-exercising puppies should be avoided to protect their developing bones. Short walks and relaxed playtime are sufficient to keep them happy without disrupting their love for naps.
Fun Fact: Mastiffs tend to prefer lounging over action and are prone to taking long, uninterrupted naps throughout the day.
5. Basset Hound
The Basset Hound, a short-legged member of the Hound Group, is a French breed originally developed for trailing game thanks to its exceptional sense of smell, second only to the Bloodhound. With a height of up to 14 inches and weighing between 40 to 65 pounds, this droopy-eyed dog is instantly recognizable by its large, domed head, long ears, wrinkled brow, and mournful expression.
Despite its heavy bone structure and powerful legs, the Basset Hound is better known for a slow, deliberate gait than speed. Its long, low body and calm demeanor make it a champion napper, often spending 12 to 14 hours a day sleeping.
With a typical life span of 12 to 13 years, the breed is a loyal and endearing companion known for its gentle nature and melodious bark.
Exercise
Though famously lazy, Basset Hounds still benefit from daily moderate walks to stay fit and prevent obesity—a common concern for this sedentary breed. A short stroll combined with mental stimulation helps balance their sleepy tendencies and maintain a healthy weight.
Fun Fact: Basset Hounds can sleep up to 20 hours a day when paired with light activity, earning them their reputation as professional nappers.
6. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland, affectionately known as the “gentle giant,” is a large working breed with an enduring reputation for calmness, patience, and loyalty. Originally bred in Canada to assist fishermen, these powerful dogs excel at water rescue due to their strength and swimming ability.
Males typically weigh up to 150 pounds and reach 28 inches in height, while females average 100 to 120 pounds. With a thick, water-resistant double coat—available in black, brown, gray, or the iconic Landseer pattern—they embody both elegance and function. Despite their imposing presence, Newfoundlands are incredibly mellow, affectionate, and fantastic with children.
Exercise
Newfoundlands enjoy a slow-paced lifestyle punctuated by daily low-impact activities. While adult Newfs benefit from an hour of light exercise—especially swimming or pulling carts—puppies should not be over-exercised to avoid joint strain during development.
They thrive best when their movement is balanced with long periods of rest. A comfortable bed, ideally orthopedic, helps support their heavy frame and promotes restorative sleep. Reward-based training works well with their gentle disposition, though early socialization is essential.
Fact: Newfoundlands can snooze up to 18 hours a day, solidifying their place among the sleepiest dog breeds.
7. Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard, also affectionately known as the “gentle giant,” is one of the most iconic large dog breeds. Originating in the Swiss Alps, these massive dogs were historically bred by monks for mountain rescue missions. Males typically stand at least 27.5 inches tall and weigh between 140 to 180 pounds, while females are slightly smaller.
They boast a short to medium-length coat in shades of white with red or brindle markings. Despite their powerful build, Saint Bernards are famously calm, patient, and affectionate—traits that make them as good at snoozing as they were at saving lives.
Exercise
Though imposing in size, Saint Bernards are surprisingly low-maintenance when it comes to physical activity. A single long walk or a half-hour play session each day is usually enough to satisfy their exercise needs.
These dogs prefer lounging with their family, often enjoying up to 12 hours of sleep daily. Their slower pace makes them perfect for laid-back households, but it’s important to ensure they stay active enough to maintain a healthy weight.
Fun Fact: Despite their legendary strength, Saint Bernards are among the laziest breeds and can snooze up to 18 hours a day when fully relaxed.
8. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog, affectionately known as the “Frenchie,” is a compact and sturdy toy breed famous for its oversized bat-like ears, wrinkled face, and expressive charm. Typically weighing between 16 to 28 pounds and standing 11 to 13 inches tall, this small breed has a muscular build and a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, including fawn, brindle, and cream.
Originating from England and refined in France, French Bulldogs were initially bred as companions to lace workers and quickly gained popularity among urban dwellers. With a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, they are prized for their low-maintenance and affectionate nature.
Exercise
French Bulldogs are low-energy dogs that prefer lounging to lengthy workouts. Due to their brachycephalic (short-nosed) build, they are sensitive to heat and can struggle with breathing, making intense physical activity unsuitable.
A daily walk of 30 to 60 minutes and some indoor playtime are sufficient to keep them content and healthy. Exercise should be timed carefully to avoid the hottest parts of the day and reduce the risk of overheating or fatigue.
Fun Fact: French Bulldogs can sleep up to 14 hours a day and love curling up in cozy corners for long naps.
9. English Bulldog
The English Bulldog, with its iconic wrinkled face and stocky frame, is one of the most recognizable dog breeds. Known for its calm and affectionate demeanor, this breed has a history rooted in England, where it was originally used in bull-baiting. Today, Bulldogs are cherished as gentle companions. They typically stand about 14 to 15 inches tall and weigh between 40 to 50 pounds.
Their short, smooth coat can come in various colors and patterns, and their distinctive loose skin and underbite give them a unique charm. Bulldogs have a low energy level and often prefer lounging around the house, earning their place among the sleepiest dog breeds. With an average life span of 8 to 10 years, they are steady, loyal pets who thrive in a relaxed environment.
Exercise
English Bulldogs require only about 30 minutes of daily exercise, ideally split into two short walks to avoid overexertion. Due to their brachycephalic structure, they are prone to breathing difficulties, so avoid heat and intense physical activity. They are also not natural swimmers and should be kept away from deep water.
Fun Fact: Bulldogs can sleep up to 14 hours a day and are content being your couch buddy for most of it.
Conclusion
After exploring the coziest canines around, it’s clear that some dog breeds have truly perfected the art of napping. From the calm and cuddly English Bulldog to other famously laid-back breeds, these pups prove that rest is more than just a pastime—it’s a lifestyle. Whether they’re curling up on the couch or catching z’s in a sunny spot, these sleepy dogs remind us that slowing down has its own charm. If you’re ready for a companion who enjoys the quieter side of life, these breeds could be the perfect match.
When it comes to comfort, these dogs check all the boxes. Their relaxed temperaments, easy-going routines, and love for lounging make them excellent companions for homebodies, families, and even apartment dwellers. While writing your checklist of ideal pet traits, don’t overlook the importance of downtime. For anyone looking to enjoy the simple things—like afternoon naps and peaceful evenings—these sleepy dog breeds might just be your dream match.
