Seeking a furry friend who embodies chill? Forget frenetic fetch and embrace the snuggle. Discover the nine most relaxed dog breeds perfect for laid-back lifestyles. From gentle giants to cuddly couch potatoes, these breeds prioritize naps over zoomies, offering calm companionship and unwavering affection. Whether you’re a busy professional or a retiree seeking quiet company, this list will help you find the paw-fectly relaxed pup to complete your tranquil home.
Dogs are without a doubt man’s best friend, filling our lives with joy through their playful personalities and loyal companionship. But for some dog lovers, a more relaxed and laid-back companion is the perfect match for their calm and peaceful lifestyle. There are certain breeds that are well-known for their chilled-out, easygoing nature, making them ideal for those who prefer a slower pace.
These calm dog breeds are perfect for families looking for low-maintenance pets, lazy dog breeds that don’t require endless exercise or even the best apartment dogs who enjoy lounging more than running. Even large dog breeds, despite their size, can have an incredibly mellow attitude and are happy to sprawl out like a lap dog, enjoying cuddles and quiet time.
While each breed has its own unique traits, it’s essential to remember that every dog is an individual. Proper training and socialization are key to ensuring your furry friend thrives in your home. The great thing about relaxed dog breeds is that they often bring more than just a calm attitude; they’re talented in their own special ways.
Let’s take a look at nine of the most relaxed dog breeds that could be the perfect match for your family.
Most Relaxed Dog Breeds
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is one of the most relaxed and endearing dog breeds, known for its irresistibly cute face and sweet, gentle nature. With their big, dreamy eyes, these dogs easily capture the hearts of everyone in the family. Cavaliers are incredibly social and thrive on human companionship, making them ideal family pets. They fit in perfectly with both active households and those seeking a more laid-back companion, as they are playful yet calm.
These gentle dogs love people, get along well with other pets, and are happiest when surrounded by their loved ones. Cavaliers crave attention and affection, often seeking out belly rubs and cuddles. However, they don’t do well when left alone for too long, so it’s important to make sure they get plenty of interaction.
While they generally get along well with children, it’s still wise to supervise them around small kids to ensure a positive and safe experience for both. With the right balance of physical and mental stimulation, especially during their puppy stage, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are adaptable and thrive in a variety of activities, making them the perfect blend of fun and relaxation.
2. Clumber Spaniel
The Clumber Spaniel, known for its dignified and mellow nature, is a gentle and affectionate companion, making it a perfect fit for families willing to handle some shedding and drooling. As the largest of the flushing spaniels, Clumbers have a relaxed demeanor, especially as they grow older.
They are excellent with children and other pets, especially when socialized from a young age, and their sweet, easygoing personality shines through at home. While they are calm indoors, Clumbers have a strong sense of smell and can be relentless when following a scent outdoors. They are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them highly trainable, though they may be a bit cautious around strangers.
According to AKC, despite their size, Clumbers aren’t loud barkers and make indifferent watchdogs. They love outdoor activities like swimming and retrieving, making them sturdy and playful companions for kids. Clumbers enjoy fetching in the backyard, providing them with ample exercise and bonding time with their owners.
3. Shih Tzu
Few breeds are as naturally suited to children as the Shih Tzu. With their calm and friendly demeanor, Shih Tzus can easily handle the energy and excitement that comes with having young kids around. Of course, it’s important to teach children how to properly play with and handle a dog, but Shih Tzus are known for their patience and affectionate nature, making them excellent companions for families.
Despite their name meaning “little lion,” there’s nothing fierce about these dogs—just a whole lot of love. Shih Tzus have been cherished as lap dogs for centuries, and their small size, silky low-shedding coat, and adaptable personality make them perfect for any living situation, including apartments.
While they’re most famous for their role as loyal companions, many Shih Tzus today are also being trained in dog sports, excelling in obedience and agility competitions. Whether they’re lounging on your lap or taking on new challenges, Shih Tzus are devoted, loving pets who bring joy to homes everywhere.
4. Boerboel
The Boerboel, also known as the South African Mastiff, is a gentle giant with an enormous heart and a calm demeanor, making them a good fit for families with older children and adults. Despite their impressive size and strength, Boerboels are incredibly loyal and loving companions, often forming deep bonds with their families.
Known for their protective instincts, they are fierce guard dogs who can distinguish between friend and foe, which makes them excellent protectors. Though they were bred to defend, Boerboels also have a sweet and affectionate side, sometimes even serving as therapy dogs. However, they require regular exercise to stay healthy, even if they tend to be a bit lazy, especially in warm weather.
Daily walks and structured playtime are important, and their strong protective instincts mean they should always be on a leash when outside. Socialization and positive reinforcement training are key for this calm dog breed, as they may initially be wary of strangers and other pets. With the right guidance, Boerboels are loving, protective, and gentle companions.
5. Pekingese
If your family is in search of a small, sweet, and cuddly breed with a laid-back personality, the Pekingese might be the perfect fit. Known for their regal origins in ancient China, where they lived in palaces during the Tang Dynasty, Pekingese dogs are affectionate and form strong bonds with their owners. Though they are serene and independent by nature, they make excellent companions for families who prefer a quieter lifestyle.
Pekingese are low-maintenance when it comes to exercise, needing only minimal activity to stay content. Their leisurely demeanor doesn’t mean they lack spirit—they are alert and expressive, showing their assertiveness when they choose.
Due to their shorter muzzles, Pekes can have difficulty with heavy exertion, making them naturally more suited to a calm, relaxed environment. Plus, their luxurious coats can be kept trimmed for easy grooming, so they’re not as high-maintenance as they appear!
6. Basset Hound
The Basset Hound, with its distinctive floppy ears, droopy face, and short legs, is a calm yet affectionate breed that makes a wonderful family companion. While their incredible sense of smell—second only to the Bloodhound—can sometimes lead them on scent-driven adventures, families can enjoy these moments as part of the breed’s charm.
Originally bred for hunting, Basset Hounds are lower-energy dogs who love nothing more than following an interesting scent at their own pace, making them perfect for families who appreciate a more relaxed pet. In the right home, where patience and loyalty are valued, Basset Hounds thrive. Their easygoing temperament and lovable nature more than make up for their occasional stubbornness.
My Family Vets notes that though they are known to be a bit vocal, frequently letting out a howl or baying bark, this trait can be managed with proper training and care. If left alone for too long, however, they may bark out of loneliness, so it’s important to consider this if you have nearby neighbors.
7. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is one of the most relaxed and gentle dog breeds, known for its sweet and easygoing nature. Despite their giant size, these dogs are incredibly affectionate and love being around children, earning them the nickname “the nanny dog.”
Their calm demeanor makes them wonderful companions for families, as they are patient, devoted, and empathetic, always looking out for the well-being of their loved ones. WebMD points out that Newfoundlands are not just loyal to their family, but they’re also friendly toward strangers, other dogs, and household pets.
Though their massive size and lots of fur might suggest they’d make fierce watchdogs, they’re more inclined to watch over and protect rather than be aggressive. With their excellent swimming abilities, Newfoundlands have even earned a reputation for lifesaving, often pulling people to safety from the water.
8. English Bulldog
The English Bulldog is one of the most relaxed dog breeds, known for its laidback and easygoing personality. With their stout, stocky build and signature waddle, these dogs may not be athletic, but they make up for it with their calm and charming demeanor.
Perfect for families seeking a low-energy companion, Bulldogs are happy to spend their day lounging around the house, content to nap under the table or snuggle up on the couch after a long day. While their muscular 50-pound frame might not seem like typical lap dog material, that won’t stop an English Bulldog from trying to curl up in your lap for some affection.
Their smooshed-in faces give them an adorable appearance, but also require special care in hot weather, as they are prone to overheating. PetPlan states that providing access to cool water and shaded areas is essential for their comfort during warmer months.
9. Bergamasco Sheepdog
Despite their imposing appearance, Bergamasco Sheepdogs are known for their calm demeanor and deep loyalty to their families, often forming unbreakable bonds with their owners. Early socialization and consistent training are crucial to help channel their natural herding instincts and ensure they grow into well-behaved, balanced companions.
With the right care and attention, the Bergamasco thrives not only as a skilled working dog but also as a loving and devoted family pet. Originating from the Italian Alps, the Bergamasco Sheepdog is an ancient and courageous breed with a distinct, shaggy coat that sets them apart. This unique coat, made up of flat, coarse mats, provides protection from harsh Alpine weather.
Despite their rugged look, Bergamascos are agile and highly intelligent, capable of working long hours in tough terrains. While they are affectionate and loyal to their families, they can be a bit reserved around strangers, making them a calm yet protective presence in the home.
Conclusion
The calmest dog breeds are perfect for families and individuals seeking a relaxed companion with a gentle temperament. These calm dogs, such as the “gentle giants” and large dogs, have a sweet temperament and calm demeanor that make them lovable dogs and good family dogs. Whether you’re looking for a couch potato who enjoys snuggling or a relaxed companion with a friendly nature, these breeds excel as companion animals, forming strong bonds with their owners and providing the best life for those seeking a slower pace.
Despite their relaxed temperament, many of these dogs can still engage in fun activities, making them a great fit for active pet parents as well.
While calm dog breeds are often more laid-back, many of them have a background as hunting dogs or high energy dogs, so a balance of gentle activity and companionship is key. Even high-energy breeds can exhibit a calm temperament with the right care, becoming devoted companions to their families. From sweet-natured lap dogs to larger breeds with a gentle demeanor, these calm and lovable dogs prove that a relaxed attitude can coexist with playful moments, ensuring they are both adaptable and devoted to their families.
Ultimately, finding a truly relaxed canine companion depends on individual dog personality as much as breed. While these nine breeds—often boasting lower energy needs and adaptable temperaments—are excellent starting points for laid-back lifestyles, remember that training, socialization, and environment play a crucial role. Researching breeders and spending time with potential pups is key to finding the perfect relaxed fit for your home. Whether you’re seeking a cuddly couch potato or a gentle walking buddy, a well-matched dog can enrich your life with calming companionship for years to come.
