Not all dogs are high-energy, ball-chasing maniacs. Some are just happy to curl up beside you, soak in the quiet, and be your steady, loyal companion.
If you dream of a dog that’s more about cuddles than chaos, you’re in luck. There are breeds that naturally prefer a relaxed pace, content to lounge at your feet or take leisurely strolls instead of sprinting through life at full speed.
From gentle giants to petite lapdogs, these easygoing pups are perfect for anyone who wants a best friend without the non-stop zoomies. Whether you live in a small apartment or just appreciate a little peace and quiet, there’s a calm breed for you.
Here are 20 of the best dog breeds for people who love their canine company slow, steady, and stress-free!
Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is a wonderfully calm breed, perfect for those who enjoy a relaxed pace of life. With their soulful eyes and droopy ears, these dogs are known for their gentle and laid-back nature. Bassets are great with families, including children, and they enjoy being part of household activities without requiring constant stimulation.
They are generally low-energy, making them ideal for apartment living or homes without a big yard. Regular short walks and occasional playtimes are sufficient to keep them content. Their friendly disposition and love for lounging make them a delightful addition to any calm household.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for their affectionate and gentle nature, making them excellent companions for those seeking calmness. Their sweet temperament and love for cuddling make them perfect lap dogs. They thrive on human interaction and are highly adaptable to different living situations.
Despite their aristocratic appearance, Cavaliers are friendly and easygoing. They get along well with kids and other pets, making them versatile family members. A daily walk and some playtime will satisfy their exercise needs, while their primary desire is to be loved and close to their owners.
Bulldog
Bulldogs are the epitome of calm and leisure. Known for their sturdy build and wrinkled face, they are gentle giants who prefer lounging over intense activity. Their easygoing nature makes them perfect for apartment living and they rarely bark unnecessarily.
Bulldogs are excellent companions for those who enjoy a slower pace, as they love to relax and enjoy human company. While they require minimal exercise, regular short walks and playtimes are beneficial for their health. Their affectionate personality and low-key demeanor make them ideal for those seeking a tranquil pet.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are calm, friendly, and thrive on companionship. These small dogs are excellent for families or individuals looking for a loyal and peaceful friend. With their luxurious coats and sweet-natured disposition, they are both beautiful and loving.
Shih Tzus require only moderate exercise, such as short daily walks and indoor play. They are friendly with children and other pets, making them a versatile choice for many households. Their primary joy is to be with their family, providing warmth and affection without demanding too much energy in return.
Great Dane
The Great Dane, despite its imposing size, is one of the gentlest and calmest breeds. Known as gentle giants, they are affectionate and love to relax with their family. Their calm demeanor makes them surprisingly adaptable to apartment living, provided they get regular exercise.
Great Danes are excellent with children and other pets, and they possess a patient and friendly nature. While their size requires space, their need for exercise is moderate, with daily walks sufficing. Their calm presence and loyal personality make them wonderful companions for those who appreciate a serene household.
Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are famous for their gentle and calm disposition. These large dogs are incredibly patient and loving, making them excellent companions for families with children. Often referred to as ‘nanny dogs,’ they are protective yet gentle giants.
Despite their size, Newfoundlands are not overly active and are content with a few daily walks and some playtime. Their love for water and strong swimming ability make them unique among calm breeds. Their sweet nature and friendly demeanor ensure they fit well in families seeking a peaceful and loving pet.
Pug
Pugs are small dogs with big personalities, known for their calm and friendly nature. They are excellent companions for those who enjoy both relaxation and occasional playfulness. With their distinctive wrinkled faces and charming antics, they quickly win hearts.
Pugs thrive in various living environments, including apartments, due to their small size and adaptable nature. They require minimal exercise; short walks and indoor play are sufficient to keep them healthy and happy. Their affectionate and easygoing temperament makes them ideal pets for those seeking a loving and low-maintenance companion.
Mastiff
Mastiffs are known for their calm and gentle nature, despite their large and imposing appearance. They are loyal and protective, making excellent companions for families. Their laid-back demeanor means they prefer lounging around rather than engaging in high-energy activities.
These dogs are great with children and other pets, and their patience is remarkable. Although they require space due to their size, their exercise needs are moderate. Daily walks and some playtime are enough to keep them content. Their calm presence and affectionate nature make them wonderful pets for those who appreciate tranquility.
Whippet
Whippets are elegant, calm, and affectionate dogs, ideal for those seeking a serene pet. Known for their gentle nature, they are great with children and adapt well to various living environments. Their sleek appearance and quiet demeanor make them a favorite among calm dog enthusiasts.
Whippets enjoy short bursts of activity, followed by long periods of rest. They require regular walks but are otherwise low maintenance. Their love for comfort means they often enjoy lounging on sofas and beds. With their loving personality and quiet nature, Whippets make ideal companions for peaceful households.
Chow Chow
Chow Chows are known for their dignified and calm nature. With their lion-like appearance and aloof demeanor, they are perfect for those who appreciate independence in a pet. Despite their reserved nature, they form strong bonds with their families and are incredibly loyal.
Chow Chows require moderate exercise, such as daily walks, and enjoy having a routine. They are perfect for homes where a quiet and steady presence is valued. While they may seem aloof to strangers, their calm and loving nature shines through with those they trust, making them ideal for dedicated owners.
Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards are gentle giants known for their calm and loving demeanor. These large dogs are affectionate and great with families, including young children. Their patient nature makes them wonderful companions, especially for those who enjoy a calm home atmosphere.
Despite their size, Saint Bernards are not overly active and are content with daily walks and playtime. They are loyal and protective, always watching over their loved ones. Their gentle personality and serene presence make them perfect for families seeking a peaceful and loving pet.
Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are known for their gentle and friendly nature, making them ideal companions for those seeking a calm pet. With their beautiful coats and expressive eyes, they are both charming and loving.
These dogs enjoy moderate exercise, such as daily walks and playtime in the yard. They are great with children and other pets, forming strong bonds with their families. While they do require some grooming, their affectionate and easygoing nature makes them perfect for those who enjoy a loving and peaceful household.
Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds are gentle giants with a calm and friendly nature. Known for their impressive size, they are surprisingly gentle and affectionate, making them perfect companions for those who enjoy tranquility.
These dogs require regular exercise but are generally low-energy, preferring to lounge around the house. They are great with children and other pets, forming strong, loyal bonds with their families. Despite their size, Irish Wolfhounds are quiet and reserved, making them ideal for those seeking a serene and loving pet.
Lhasa Apso
Lhasa Apsos are small yet calm dogs, known for their independent yet loving nature. With their luxurious coats and alert expressions, they are both beautiful and charming companions.
These dogs thrive in various living environments, including apartments. They require moderate exercise, such as daily walks and indoor play, to stay healthy and happy. Lhasa Apsos are great with children and other pets, though they can be a bit aloof with strangers. Their calm demeanor and affectionate nature make them perfect for those who enjoy a peaceful and low-maintenance pet.
Japanese Chin
Japanese Chins are known for their elegant and calm demeanor, making them ideal companions for those seeking a serene pet. These small dogs are affectionate and love to be with their families, often forming strong bonds.
They require minimal exercise, with short walks and playtime being sufficient to keep them content. Japanese Chins thrive in various living environments, including apartments, due to their small size and adaptable nature. Their sophisticated appearance and gentle personality make them perfect for those who appreciate a calm and loving companion.
Greyhound
Greyhounds are known for their calm and gentle nature, despite their history as racing dogs. They are affectionate and loving, making them excellent companions for those seeking a serene pet.
These dogs enjoy short bursts of activity but are generally low-energy, often referred to as “couch potatoes.” They require regular walks to stay healthy, but their primary love is relaxing at home. Greyhounds are great with children and other pets, forming strong bonds with their families. Their loving personality and quiet demeanor make them perfect for those who enjoy a peaceful household.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their calm and gentle demeanor, making them excellent companions for families. Their large size and friendly nature make them both impressive and comforting.
These dogs enjoy the outdoors and require regular exercise, such as daily walks and playtime. They are great with children and other pets, forming strong bonds with their families. Despite their size, Bernese Mountain Dogs are not overly active, preferring a laid-back lifestyle. Their affectionate and loyal nature makes them perfect for those seeking a loving and calm pet.
Pekingese
Pekingese are small dogs with a calm and dignified demeanor. Known for their luxurious coats and noble appearance, they are affectionate companions who enjoy being with their families.
These dogs require minimal exercise, thriving with short walks and indoor play. They are well-suited to apartment living, given their small size and calm nature. Pekingese are generally good with children and other pets, although they can be a bit aloof with strangers. Their regal presence and loving personality make them perfect for those who appreciate a serene and elegant companion.
Havanese
Havanese dogs are small, friendly, and known for their calm and loving nature. These charming companions thrive on interaction and are highly adaptable to various living environments.
Despite their playful side, Havanese are content with moderate exercise, such as short daily walks and indoor play. They are great with children and other pets, making them ideal for families. Their small size and calm demeanor make them perfect for apartment living. With their affectionate nature and desire for companionship, Havanese dogs are delightful pets for those seeking a peaceful and loving friend.
Xoloitzcuintli
The Xoloitzcuintli, or Xolo, is an ancient breed known for its calm temperament and unique appearance. With origins tracing back to ancient Mexico, this hairless breed delights those seeking a quiet companion.
Xolos are often small to medium-sized, making them ideal for apartment living. Their serene nature means they’re content lounging around the house or enjoying a sunbath in the garden.
Despite their calm demeanor, regular walks are essential to keep them healthy and happy. Known for their loyalty, Xolos form strong bonds with their owners, offering a quiet yet affectionate companionship.