When considering a new canine companion, many potential dog owners prioritize gentle and easygoing breeds to seamlessly integrate into their home environment. Low dominance dog breeds are often celebrated for their amiable temperaments and adaptable nature, making them ideal pets for families, first-time owners, or those living in quieter households. These breeds typically exhibit a balanced approach to life, offering loyalty without assertiveness. This guide will introduce you to seven such breeds that are known for their calm demeanor and companionable spirit, ensuring a harmonious partnership between pup and person. Discover how these relaxed breeds can enrich your household with their sweet and mellow presence.
A low-dominance dog is like that chill friend who’s always up for a cuddle and never tries to be the boss. These dogs are less likely to challenge or assert themselves over other dogs or people, making them more submissive, gentle, and eager to please.
With their laid-back attitude, they are often more adaptable and easier to train than dogs with a strong dominant streak. These gentle and affectionate pups love spending time with their families, soaking up all the snuggles and belly rubs they can get.
Their eagerness to please means they are motivated to learn and follow commands, making training a breeze. One of their standout traits is their submissiveness, which means they are less likely to challenge authority or start conflicts.
This makes them adaptable to different living situations and routines. Plus, they are often great with children and other pets, thanks to their tolerant and patient nature.
Now, let’s meet these adorable slackers, shall we? These breeds listed are easily managed and often easily trained with proper training and positive reinforcement from an early age.
Low Dominance Dog Breeds
1. Pomeranian
If you’re looking for affectionate dogs with a submissive and gentle nature, the Pomeranian is an ideal companion. Picture this: a cotton ball with legs and the attitude of a tiny lion. That’s your Pom! These little divas typically weigh between 3-7 pounds, making them perfect lap dogs.
These little dynamos, compared to other breeds, are perfect for those who prefer shorter walks, needing only 15-20 minutes twice a day. They also make excellent watchdogs, alerting you to everything happening outside.
Good things indeed come in small packages! However, let’s be real – these fluffy companions require some upkeep.
Pomeranians are known for their bold and lively personality, making them quite the entertainers at home. Speaking of their well-being, be aware of potential health issues like dental problems (so brush those tiny teeth!) and luxating patella (knee problems).
You can expect 12-16 years of sass and cuddles from these pint-sized pals with proper training and care. Their small size and big personality make them a perfect match for families looking for a loving and energetic companion.
2. Maltese
As one of the most easygoing dog breeds, the Maltese embody grace and sweetness. They belong to one of the non-aggressive dog breeds with a calm nature.
These elegant little floofs (4-7 pounds) are living, breathing silk scarves with personalities. What’s particularly endearing about the Maltese is their ability to read their owner’s moods. Had a rough day at work? Your Maltese will be right there, offering cuddles and comfort.
According to WebMD, Maltese are perfect apartment dogs that are low-shedding, making lint roller addiction a thing of the past. However, that gorgeous white coat is high maintenance, so you’ll either become best friends with your groomer or develop some serious DIY skills.
Maltese dogs are known for their playful and affectionate nature, making them wonderful companions for families and individuals alike. Their small size makes them ideal for apartment living, and their gentle temperament ensures they get along well with other pets and children.
Health-wise, these dogs can face dental issues due to their tiny teeth and are prone to tear staining, which, although part of their signature look, needs attention. Despite these concerns, they have a lifespan of 12-15 years filled with pure sophistication. Their sweet and loving personality makes them a joy to have around, and they’ll quickly become the heart of your home.
3. Japanese Chin
Known for their calm and docile nature, Japanese Chins are classic examples of gentle dog breeds. The Japanese Chin was originally bred in China. According to PetMD, the Japanese Chin breed has its roots in China and was later gifted to the Japanese nobility, where it became a favored companion in the Japanese imperial court.
These little aristocrats (4-11 pounds) think they’re royalty, and honestly? They might be right. They’re cats in dog suits, and I mean that in the best possible way. These dogs are self-cleaning, much like cats, and are super quiet, making them favorites among apartment managers. They are also masters of the judgy face.
Japanese Chins are known for their charming and affectionate nature, making them excellent companions for those who appreciate a calm and loving pet. Their elegant appearance and regal demeanor will make them stand out in any setting, and their playful personality will keep you entertained.
They have been perfecting their manipulation skills for centuries, and they are good at it. In terms of health considerations, they can experience breathing issues due to their cute flat faces and are prone to knee problems.
Despite these concerns, they have a lifespan of 10-15 years filled with gentle judgment. These little dogs are great for apartment living and will quickly become the royalty of your home.
4. Chinese Crested
Living with a Chinese Crested, a toy poodle, is like having a permanent fashion show at home. You’ll find yourself becoming their biggest cheerleader, defending their unique looks to everyone who gives them a second glance. And trust me, there will be many second glances.
According to Britannica, the Chinese Crested dog breed weighs between 5–10 pounds and is 11–13 inches tall. These dogs are living proof that beauty comes in all forms. They’re the Lady Gaga of the dog world – unique and not afraid to show it.
Perfect for allergy sufferers, especially the hairless variety, these dogs are surprisingly athletic in short bursts and total attention magnets. The hairless variety needs sunscreen – yes, you’ll become that person putting SPF on their dog, and you’ll have to own it. They also act as space heaters, making them perfect for winter cuddles.
Chinese Cresteds are known for their affectionate and playful nature, making them great companions for families and individuals alike. Their unique appearance and lively personality will make them the center of attention wherever they go.
Health-wise, they can experience skin issues, which is quite obvious given their lack of fur, and dental problems. Despite these concerns, they have a lifespan of 13-18 years, turning heads wherever they go. Their loving and loyal nature will make them a cherished member of your family.
5. Brussels Griffon
One of the most charming things about Brussels Griffons is their uncanny ability to mirror their owners’ personalities. These 8-10-pound sweethearts look like they’re the epitome of chill.
Their expressive faces will make you feel like you’re living with a tiny, furry person. Their upbringing never let them show reactive dog behaviors including lunging. These dogs are highly expressive, so you’ll never wonder what they’re thinking. They’re the perfect size for city living and are masters of the side-eye.
Brussels Griffons are known for their playful and affectionate nature, making them wonderful companions for families and individuals. Their small size and big personality make them ideal for apartment living, and their expressive faces will always keep you entertained.
They do well in family environments and are gentle around children, but you should note that they may sometimes have mobility issues due to their shorter legs. Health-wise, they can face eye problems due to their big eyes, and syringomyelia, which is a big word for a neurological condition.
Despite these concerns, they have a lifespan of 12-15 years filled with judgy faces. These little dogs are full of personality and will quickly become a beloved member of your family.
6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Embodying the quintessential low-dominance dog breeds, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is known for his affectionate and gentle disposition. These 13-18 pound love bugs are basically what would happen if you could bring a stuffed animal to life. They’re wonderful family dogs and living proof that good things come in adorable packages.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a popular breed and a wonderful family dog. They are great with kids and adaptable to any living situation. They’re also expert-level cuddlers.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for their loving and playful nature, making them excellent companions for families and individuals. Their small size and gentle temperament make them ideal for apartment living, and their friendly personality ensures they get along well with other pets and children.
Health-wise, they can face heart issues due to too much love in that little chest and are prone to syringomyelia. Despite these concerns, they have a lifespan of 9-14 years filled with pure love.
Their affectionate nature and charming personality make them a joy to have around, and they’ll quickly become the heart of your home.
7. Tibetan Spaniel
These 9-15 pound Tibetan Spaniels, these philosophers among dogs, will make you question everything you thought you knew about dogs. They’re smart, independent, and surprisingly good at yoga (okay, maybe not that last part).
Their expressive eyes and curious nature will keep you on your toes, and you’ll quickly find yourself enchanted by their antics. They also have a knack for bringing a sense of serenity to any environment. They do not possess reactive dog behaviors like biting and growling.
According to Hill’sPet, Tibetan Spaniels are incredibly intelligent, great watchdogs, and possess a perfect balance of affection and independence. They are quick learners and excel in various canine activities, making them a joy to train and engage with.
Tibetan Spaniels are known for their loyal and affectionate nature, making them wonderful companions for families and individuals. Their small size and calm demeanor make them ideal for apartment living, and their playful personality will keep you entertained.
However, they’re too smart for their good sometimes, so expect them to find loopholes in every rule you set—essentially, they’re tiny, furry lawyers. In terms of health, they may face hip issues and eye problems. Despite these concerns, they have a lifespan of 13-15 years of wise contemplation. Their loving and loyal nature will make them a cherished member of your family.
Dog Aggression: What You Need to Know
Understanding aggressive dog behaviors, reactive dog behaviors, and different types of dog aggression is crucial for any dog owner.
Just like how your most chill friend can still lose it when someone eats their clearly labeled lunch from the office fridge, any dog can show signs of aggression under certain circumstances. Even the least aggressive dog breeds can exhibit aggressive tendencies if not properly trained. Our low-energy and low-dominance friends, which are often among the least aggressive dogs, might show some spicy behavior for various reasons.
Even the most gentle dog breeds, like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, can have aggressive tendencies if they are not properly trained. Any dog owner needs to understand dog aggression, reactive dog behaviors, and different types of dog aggression.
Conclusion
Here’s the deal – any of these breeds could be your perfect match, but remember that even lazy dogs need some exercise (just not as much as high-energy dogs like Border Collies, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, or herding dogs in general)
Regular vet checks are crucial (for all breeds, including large dogs like Bernese Mountain Dogs, Great Danes, and breeds prone to specific health issues like pugs with breathing problems).
Grooming needs vary (but they all need some maintenance; some breeds like the Maltese with their smooth coat require more grooming than others). Love and attention are non-negotiable (similar to Bichon Frise, who loves to be involved in everything their family does)
Don’t forget – these are general breed characteristics. Every dog is an individual with their personality traits. Kind of like how we all have that one friend who’s technically a Capricorn but acts nothing like one. You know who you are, Sarah. Even within a breed, there can be variations in energy levels. A mixed breed dog’s energy level can be particularly unpredictable, as it can be influenced by the parent’s breeds.
In conclusion, the seven low dominance dog breeds known for their gentle and easygoing nature make excellent companions for individuals and families alike. These breeds typically exhibit a friendly demeanor, demonstrating patience and adaptability in various environments. Their low dominance traits ensure a harmonious household, making them ideal for those seeking a stress-free relationship with their pets. Whether it’s the calm demeanor of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or the affectionate nature of the Basset Hound, these breeds offer not only companionship but also a sense of tranquility and warmth, embodying the essence of a loving and loyal pet.