Not all dogs crave long hikes and endless games of fetch. Some prefer a slower, softer pace—one filled with naps, cuddles, and gentle strolls.
If your idea of a perfect day includes staying in your pajamas with a calm pup by your side, you’re in luck. There are plenty of calm-natured small dog breeds that are just as laid-back as you are.
These dogs are low-energy, easy-going, and happiest when life moves at a comfortable speed. They don’t need constant activity or wide-open spaces—just your companionship and a comfy spot to snooze.
Perfect for apartment dwellers, retirees, or anyone looking for a peaceful companion, these breeds bring all the love without the high demands.
Here, we’ll introduce you to nine of the laziest small dog breeds that embody relaxed pet ownership. From the sweet Shih Tzu to the mellow Pug, these pups prove that happiness doesn’t come from running—it comes from resting together.
Did You Know? Some breeds are happiest lounging around. Most small, lazy breeds sleep between 12 and 16 hours a day, making them ideal companions for apartment living and quiet lifestyles.
Small Lazy Dog Breeds For Relaxed Pet Ownership
1. French Bulldog
Meet the French Bulldog — or as fans lovingly call them, the “Frenchie.” Apartment dwellers and couch potatoes alike worship this squishy-faced little charmer. Why? Because the Frenchie practically defines effortless companionship.
These dogs don’t bark much, they don’t shed a lot, and they certainly don’t demand a 10-mile run before breakfast. A brisk stroll around the block or a quick romp at the park, and they’re good to go — right back to their favorite nap spot (usually on your lap, snoring like a tiny tractor).
Frenchies have a personality that’s as big as their bat-like ears. They’re playful, goofy, and full of heart, but they also know when to just vibe. Think of them as that friend who’s always down for brunch but never for hiking.
Plus, their expressive faces make them masters of “side-eye” and dramatic sighs — perfect for silently judging your life choices right before curling up beside you for a movie marathon.
So if you’re after a loyal, low-maintenance dog who matches your energy level (or lack thereof), the French Bulldog might just be your four-legged soulmate.
2. Pug
If dogs had a stand-up comedy club, the Pug would be the headliner every night — snorting, wheezing, and making everyone laugh without even trying. According to AKC, Pug owners swear this breed is the ideal house dog, and honestly, they might be right.
Pugs are the ultimate social butterflies in compact, wrinkly form. They’re perfectly content whether you live in a city apartment, a cozy cottage in the countryside, or anywhere in between. They’ll happily mingle with kids, charm the elderly, or fit right in with a pack of other pets.
Basically, if your house has snacks and a comfy sofa, the Pug has no complaints. Don’t expect them to chase frisbees for hours or master agility courses, though. A Pug’s idea of cardio is trotting from the food bowl to the couch — with maybe a pit stop for cuddles. Their motto? “Work smarter, not harder.”
They’ll follow you everywhere — mostly because they’re hoping you’ll drop a snack, but also because they adore being near their humans.
So if you’re looking for a small, low-energy companion who will make you laugh every single day and never say no to nap time, the Pug might just be your spirit animal (in dog form).
3. Pekingese
If the dog world had royalty, the Pekingese would be sitting on a velvet throne, sipping (well, lapping) from a golden bowl. These chunky little aristocrats were literally bred to live in palaces — emperors once carried them around in their sleeves as symbols of wealth and status.
So yeah, they know they’re fancy. With their luxurious, flowing coat and proud, lion-like posture, the Pekingese doesn’t just walk into a room — they glide in, fully expecting applause.
But don’t be fooled by their regal vibes; underneath all that fur and confidence lies a soft, affectionate goofball who loves nothing more than curling up next to you for a long, lazy afternoon.
Pekes are calm, comical, and delightfully stubborn in that “I’m royalty, I don’t fetch” kind of way. Their low energy level makes them perfect companions for relaxed households, especially seniors who appreciate a dog that’s more about snuggles and serenity than fetch and frenzy.
However, let’s be real — that magnificent mane doesn’t brush itself. Their coat requires a bit of maintenance, but consider it bonding time with your little furry monarch. Besides, they’ll sit there looking adorable the whole time, as if to say, “You’re welcome for the privilege.”
If you want a pint-sized dog with a big personality, a calm spirit, and a touch of regal drama, the Pekingese is the perfect lazy (but fabulous) companion to rule your heart — and your couch.
4. Maltese
If you’ve ever wanted a tiny cloud with a personality, look no further than the Maltese. With their silky white coats and sweet, soulful eyes, these little charmers are equal parts relaxation buddy and mini entertainer.
The Maltese is a delightful paradox: bright and playful enough to keep you smiling, yet perfectly content to spend an entire afternoon curled up in your lap. They’re small in size but big in spirit — always ready to make you laugh with their cheerful antics or melt your heart with a perfectly timed cuddle.
One of the best perks? They’re among the lazy dog breeds that don’t shed! That’s right — your black pants are safe. But (and there’s always a “but”), that gorgeous, flowing, snow-white hair doesn’t just stay that way on its own.
You’ll need to brush them regularly to keep them looking their glamorous best. Think of it as a mini spa day — they’ll love the attention, and you’ll love how adorable they look afterward.
While the Maltese may prefer a cozy nap to a marathon, don’t underestimate them. Give them a little challenge, like an agility course or a game of fetch, and they’ll show off their hidden athletic side — before quickly returning to their rightful throne: your lap.
Maltese is the perfect blend of luxury and laziness — a playful little companion who proves that you can be both fabulous and low-maintenance (well, mostly).
5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
If ever there was a dog that could balance royal elegance with couch-potato charm, it’s the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel — affectionately known as the Cav. These dogs look like they stepped straight out of an 18th-century portrait, yet they fit just as well into a modern family’s movie night as they once did into a royal court.
Cavs are the perfect mix for families who enjoy being a little active — emphasis on “little.” They’ll happily trot along on a walk or chase a butterfly in the yard, but they’ll also eagerly switch gears the second you sit down, transforming into a warm, snuggly lap ornament.
Their adaptable nature is one of their greatest gifts: they mold themselves to your lifestyle, whether you’re a busy family, a homebody, or somewhere in between.
Blame it on their spaniel heritage, but these dogs do have a touch of athletic spark hiding under all that fluff. Don’t worry, though — they’re just as passionate about not moving, especially if it means staying close to you.
In fact, Cavaliers are notorious for their velcro-like attachment to their humans. Leave the room for too long, and they’ll look at you like you’ve just shattered their royal heart.
So if you’re looking for a small, low-drama dog who loves affection, adapts easily, and looks like actual royalty, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel will happily reign supreme… preferably from your lap.
6. Shih Tzu
If you’ve ever dreamed of having a royal roommate who’s equal parts cuddly and classy, meet the Shih Tzu — the ultimate little monarch of the living room. These pint-sized pups don’t need much space to be happy, which makes them perfect for apartment dwellers, condo owners, or really anyone who values comfort over chaos.
Shih Tzus were literally bred for indoor luxury — ancient Chinese royalty kept them as pampered palace companions, lounging around on silk cushions and being adored.
WebMD even notes that they don’t need much exercise, and it’s easy to see why. Their idea of a workout is a few zoomies across the rug followed by an extended nap on your lap — a true pro-level chill session.
But don’t let their royal roots fool you into thinking they’re all pomp and no play. These little charmers love to have fun — as long as it’s indoors, air-conditioned, and followed by a cuddle session.
With their flowing coat, round eyes, and “I woke up fabulous” vibe, the Shih Tzu is the very definition of low-effort luxury. Just keep up with their not-so-minimal grooming (that mane doesn’t tame itself), and they’ll reward you with endless affection, loyalty, and maybe a touch of sass — because even royal dogs have opinions.
Shih Tzu is proof that you don’t need acres of land or hours of fetch to have a happy, loving companion. All they need is you, a cozy couch, and the occasional belly rub — palace optional.
7. Havanese
If sunshine could take the form of a dog, it would be the Havanese — a cheerful little fluffball with a heart as big as their personality.
Known as Cuba’s national treasure (and for good reason), these dogs are the life of the party — the kind who show up uninvited, steal everyone’s attention, and somehow make you love them even more for it.
The Havanese is a natural-born clown — goofy, sociable, and always up for making you laugh. Whether they’re doing zoomies across the living room or performing their signature “happy dance” when you come home, they live to entertain.
But don’t mistake their playful antics for a lack of brains. These dogs are super smart and highly trainable, which means they can learn tricks, routines, and commands faster than you can find your phone to record them. These calm dogs thrive on human attention and will stick by your side like your most loyal (and adorable) shadow.
And while the Havanese is gentle and has an affectionate nature, they do take their self-appointed job as watchdog quite seriously — which is adorable, considering they’re about the size of a throw pillow.
Low-maintenance when it comes to exercise but high-maintenance in love and attention, the Havanese fits beautifully into homes of all sizes. As long as you’re willing to share your heart (and maybe your lap), this happy little entertainer will make every day feel like a celebration.
8. Basset Hound
If droopy eyes and long, velvety ears could talk, the Basset Hound would be saying, “Relax, I’ve got this life thing handled.” These lovable pups are the ultimate combination of easygoing charm and subtle humor — the kind of dog who’s just as happy sniffing the garden as they are snoozing through a Sunday afternoon.
Bassets were born to work as scent hounds, which gives them impressive endurance and a hint of independence. But don’t worry — in a loving home with daily walks and a cozy spot to call their own, they happily embrace the lazy dog lifestyle.
They’re social, affectionate, and perfectly content to follow their humans from couch to kitchen, offering moral support (and the occasional sad-eyed judgment) along the way.
Britannica says the Basset Hound is famously laid-back, known for its calm demeanor. It conserves its energy for hunting or dashing to the food bowl, which can make training tricky, as it rarely moves with urgency.
Just a little exercise, a comfy bed, and they’ll repay you with endless love, loyalty, and the occasional snore that’s louder than you’d expect from such a low-slung body.
For anyone seeking a dog that perfectly balances independence, affection, and minimal demands, this low-energy dog is the ideal lazy companion — a true connoisseur of naps, snacks, and quiet quality time with their favorite humans.
9. Chinese Crested
If elegance and quirkiness had a love child, it would probably be the Chinese Crested. These little dogs are tiny, playful, and utterly unique — with some sporting the iconic hairless look (complete with a wispy topknot) and others showing off a full, flowing coat in the “Powderpuff” variety.
Either way, they’re guaranteed to turn heads and melt hearts. Despite their glamorous appearance, Chinese Cresteds are true low-energy companions.
They’re perfectly content curling up on your lap or lounging beside you while you binge your favorite shows. Their playful streak comes out in short bursts — a happy wiggle, a gentle romp around the living room — before they gracefully return to their preferred state: total relaxation.
These little extroverts thrive on human companionship. They love being part of the family and are often happiest just being where the action (or the snacks) is.
And thanks to their small size, they don’t need tons of space to be content — a cozy corner, a soft blanket, and your company are enough to make them feel like royalty.
With a dash of silliness, a pinch of elegance, and a whole lot of affection, the Chinese Crested fits perfectly into the lazy dog lifestyle. This lazy breed is proof that you don’t have to be high-energy to be charming, entertaining, and utterly irresistible.
Conclusion
For pet parents seeking relaxed temperaments and easygoing personalities, small, lazy dog breeds are ideal canine companions. Though there are some large dog breeds like Chow Chow and Bernese Mountain Dogs, which are also surprisingly low energy dogs, these small true couch potatoes enjoy indoor play, puzzle toys, and short walks or easy walks, requiring minimal exercise needs compared to active breeds. Their calm nature and gentle nature makes them great furry friends who bond deeply with owners, other dogs, and animal lovers alike.
Their surprisingly laid-back attitude suits owners seeking low-maintenance companions. Still, they can benefit from regular exercise, daily exercise, and mental stimulation to maintain a healthy weight and stay happy and healthy. With basic obedience, indoor games, and regular walks, these low-energy breeds prove that even small dogs can have a calm demeanor, thrive in apartment living, and enjoy moderate exercise, making them perfect for relaxed, loving homes.
