Did you know that petting a dog for just 15 minutes can lower your blood pressure by 10%? Science backs what dog lovers already know—some pups are natural-born stress relievers. But while all dogs bring joy, certain breeds take the calm-and-collected lifestyle to another level. If your ideal weekend involves soft blankets, quiet company, and a dog curled up at your feet, then easygoing breeds may be exactly what you’re looking for.
In today’s fast-paced world, many people are trading high-energy chaos for comfort and connection, and our choice in dogs is following suit. Whether you’re in a bustling apartment or a peaceful rural home, a laid-back dog can be the perfect co-pilot for your lifestyle. They’re affectionate without being needy, playful without being hyper, and most of all, just really great at chilling out.
Looking for the right balance of personality and peace? Keep reading to discover which mellow mutts make the best companions for a slower, sweeter kind of life.
Easy Going Dog Breeds
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Sweet-faced and always ready to snuggle, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is the poster pup for most laid-back dog breeds. Originally bred for royalty, this charming companion thrives in just about any household, whether you’re an active adventurer or a devoted homebody.
Known for their gentle temperament, Cavaliers are calm dogs that adapt easily to the energy level around them. Whether it’s playtime in the yard or relaxing during a movie night, they’re simply happy to be by your side.
Don’t let their delicate looks fool you—these small pups enjoy their daily exercise, often resembling their sporting spaniel ancestors with bursts of enthusiasm during walks. With consistent training, they become great companions who get along well with other animals and kids.
Their affectionate demeanor makes them ideal therapy dogs, and they’re well-suited for those seeking a loyal, low-maintenance breed. According to PetMD, Cavaliers are also great household pets thanks to their strong bonds and friendly spirit.
If you’re looking for a mild-mannered, affectionate dog that fits into just about any lifestyle, this gentle giant might just be your next best friend.
2. Bichon Frise
With a smile that can melt hearts and a cloud-like coat to match, the Bichon Frise is a standout among easy-going dog breeds. This cheerful companion is as affectionate as they are entertaining, often charming everyone they meet—humans, children, and other breeds included.
Despite their small size, Bichons have big sweet hearts and bubbly personalities. They’re a calm dog breed that thrives in social environments and is known for forming deep bonds with their families. Their friendly nature and eagerness to please also make them great family pets.
While they enjoy a bit of playtime, they’re not overly energetic. A few casual walks and indoor play sessions are usually enough to keep this breed happy and healthy. Add in their hypoallergenic coat, and they become a good low maintenance breed for allergy-prone pet parents.
Proper socialization from an early age ensures they’ll be confident, adaptable dogs. Their love of people makes them ideal for homes with small children or other animals.
If you’re after a lovable dog that fits right into a relaxed lifestyle, the Bichon Frise checks every box, with extra fluff to spare.
3. Labrador Retriever
Consistently topping the list of America’s favorite dogs, the Labrador Retriever brings together brains, heart, and an easy-going personality. Known for being highly trainable and people-loving, Labs are the gold standard for good family dogs.
This medium-sized dog thrives on companionship and purpose. Primarily bred as working dogs, they’re excellent swimmers and still enjoy tasks like fetching and tracking. Despite their energetic roots, a well-exercised Lab quickly transforms into a calm and loyal friend at home.
According to WebMD, their affectionate demeanor and eagerness to please make them ideal support dogs and great companions for both kids and adults. With proper socialization and consistent training, Labs are famously friendly, even with strangers and other animals.
Labrador Retrievers are also a great pick for households seeking a versatile, gentle breed that adapts to active or more relaxed lifestyles. Just add some outdoor time and a cozy couch, and you’ve got their ideal day.
Whether you live near water, in the suburbs, or on a farm, this breed’s easygoing charm makes it one of the best pets you could ask for.
4. English Toy Spaniel
Don’t let their royal lineage fool you—the English Toy Spaniel is a down-to-earth pup that loves nothing more than curling up with their people. With a quiet, affectionate demeanor, they’re a hidden gem among calm dog breeds.
This small, short-haired companion fits right into homes with a laid-back lifestyle. Their gentle nature makes them especially suited for apartments or quieter households where snuggling is a daily ritual.
Though not as widely known as the other famous dog breeds, these dogs shine in their own right. They’re content with casual walks and are perfectly happy watching the world go by from a sunny windowsill or your lap.
With initial socialization, they bond well with other animals and kids, though they do tend to prefer calm environments. Their joyful spirit shows in short bursts but never overwhelms.
For pet owners who want a sweet, mild-mannered breed that thrives on companionship without constant activity, the English Toy Spaniel delivers grace, loyalty, and love—all in a delightfully petite package.
5. Golden Retriever
Beloved for their sunny disposition and loyalty, the Golden Retriever is more than just a pretty face—they’re one of the most well-rounded, easygoing dog breeds you can welcome home. With their big hearts and deep bonds to humans, they’re often the first choice for new pet owners.
This medium-sized dog is famous for being both intelligent and affectionate. Goldens are great family pets, known to be incredibly patient with children and eager to please their owners. Their gentle temperament also makes them stand out as service dogs.
Though they need regular exercise, Goldens are just as content with slow-paced walks as they are with spirited games of fetch. With consistent instructions and socialization, they get along famously with other animals and tend to be friendly with strangers.
Their natural friendliness, combined with their highly trainable nature, puts them in the same league as the Labrador Retriever and other calm dogs. For families looking for a companion who is equally mischievous and mellow, the Golden Retriever is an unbeatable choice.
6. Greyhound
Surprisingly, one of the best easy-going dog breeds happens to be built like a sprinter. Greyhounds may be famous for their racing speed, but off the track, they’re true couch potatoes at heart.
These elegant dogs are mild-mannered and deeply affectionate with their families. They form deep bonds and are typically calm around the house, making them great low-maintenance companions, even in apartment settings.
Despite their athletic build, Greyhounds don’t demand much exercise. A couple of short walks or a fenced-in sprint now and then is usually enough. The rest of the day? They’ll be found lounging in their favorite spot, basking in your company.
Known for their gentle demeanor, Greyhounds tend to be reserved but friendly with strangers, and get along well with other dogs when given early socialization. Their quiet nature and unique appearance add to their charm.
For those looking for a calm dog breed with a heart of gold and a love for comfort, the Greyhound is a surprising but perfect fit—graceful, loving, and delightfully laid back.
7. Maltese
Elegant yet playful, the Maltese is a pocket-sized charmer with a personality that shines as brightly as their silky coat. Despite their delicate appearance, this calm dog breed has a confident and loving spirit, making them ideal for pet owners seeking a gentle companion.
Primarily bred as lapdogs for aristocrats, Maltese are perfectly suited for a laid-back lifestyle. They’re often content with short walks and quality cuddle time, thriving in both small apartments and quiet family homes.
Their affectionate demeanor and tendency to form strong bonds with their humans make them great companions for seniors and singles alike. With consistent training, they’re quick learners and adapt well to other pets in the home.
While they do enjoy playtime, these adorable dogs aren’t overly active, which makes them a low-maintenance breed in terms of energy needs. Initial socialization helps them feel confident around strangers and new environments.
For those looking for affectionate dogs with a sweet temperament and a dash of elegance, the Maltese is a timeless favorite—and a true little best friend.
8. Basset Hound
Low to the ground but high in charm, the Basset Hound is a devoted dog that takes relaxation seriously. Known for their droopy eyes and soulful expression, they’re one of the most iconic easy-going dog breeds, according to Britannica.
Primarily bred for tracking, Bassets have an incredible sense of smell but an even greater sense of loyalty. They’re calm dogs that prefer slow-paced adventures like leisurely walks or sniffing every blade of grass in the yard.
Thanks to their mild-mannered nature, they’re wonderful with kids and other dogs, making them great family pets. With proper training and patience, they respond well to structure and thrive on routine.
Though they’re not known for high energy, their persistence on a scent can surprise you. Initial socialization helps balance their strong breed tendencies with good indoor manners.
For those wanting a gentle breed with a big personality in a low-slung frame, the Basset Hound checks all the boxes—endearing, relaxed, and always up for a comfy spot on the couch.
9. Clumber Spaniel
Meet the Clumber Spaniel—a mellow sweetheart wrapped in a fluffy, low-key package. As one of the calmest members of the sporting group, this breed is a hidden gem among mellow dog breeds, beloved for its affectionate nature and unhurried pace.
Originally bred for hunting in royal estates, Clumbers have evolved into excellent companions for those who prefer a more easy-going dog breed. They enjoy slow-paced walks and quiet moments indoors, thriving in households that value calm over chaos.
With their droopy expressions and short legs, they may look serious, but they’re actually playful, friendly dogs with sweet hearts. Initial socialization and proper instructions bring out their gentle demeanor, making them great with small children and other animals.
Though they’re not as well-known as the golden retriever or Labrador retriever, Clumber Spaniels shine in their own right, especially for families seeking calm dogs with loyal dispositions.
For pet parents looking to share their home with a dog that embodies patience, warmth, and a go-with-the-flow attitude, the Clumber Spaniel might just be your next best friend.
Conclusion
From pint-sized snugglers to floppy-eared loungers, easygoing dog breeds come in all shapes, sizes, and fur textures—but they all have one thing in common: they’re pros at making life a little more peaceful (and a lot more lovable).
Whether it’s the soulful gaze of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, the gentle loyalty of a Labrador Retriever, or the hilarious charm of a Basset Hound, these pups redefine what it means to be relaxed.
These calm companions are more than just low-maintenance pets—they’re loyal co-pilots in the day-to-day rhythm of life. With traits ranging from affectionate natures to homebody-level chill, each breed we explored offers something special for households of all types, from busy families to solo apartment dwellers.
But remember, even the mellowest pups need love, attention, and a bit of training (and probably your side of the bed). Their calm demeanor may come naturally, but the strongest bonds are built with time, trust, and belly rubs.
So if you’re dreaming of a companion who’s as comfortable on a hike as they are binge-watching next to you, consider one of these gentle gems. Your future best friend might just be waiting with a wagging tail and a nap in mind.
And who knows? In the world of dogs, the most easygoing ones may just be the ones that leave the biggest paw prints on your heart.
