Looking for low-energy dogs who enjoy the lazier side of life?
Good for you, dog lover! Choosing the right dog for your lifestyle is so important. By already knowing that low-energy dogs are better for your lifestyle will save so many problems later on. Many people don’t take this into account when considering adopting a dog.
The wrong dog in the wrong home is a disaster for everyone and only ends up with the dog in the shelter and the owner distraught. Dogs are individuals and their needs will vary, but focusing on certain breed traits will help you choose the right dog for you regardless of where you choose to adopt.
Picking an active breed that needs more exercise than a dog parent can give is one of the top mistakes new dog parents make. Siberian Huskies and Australian Shepherds are beautiful, but if you can’t provide sufficient exercise, they’re going to get bored and destructive. So make sure you’re honest with yourself about the amount of physical activity you can provide. And remember, there’s no shame in loving a slower pace in life.
If you’re looking for a dog who enjoys leisure and not too much exercise, then check out this list of low-energy dog breeds.
Low Energy Dog Breeds
#1 – Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Bred primarily as a lapdog and companion, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel excels at its original job. The breed is gentle, affectionate, and would much rather be inside next to you than doing any sort of vigorous activity.
#2 – Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is a large dog on short legs, reaching upwards of 65-75 pounds. They are very lazy dogs that are gentle and affectionate towards their families. Although they require little exercise, potential owners should be prepared for a lot of drool.
#3 – English Bulldog
The English Bulldog was originally bred as a bull-baiting dog, but the sport was fortunately outlawed many, many years ago. Since then, they’ve been mostly family companions and are known for their clownish personalities. They are very lazy dogs that require minimal exercise and who doesn’t love those squishy faces!
#4 – Bullmastiff
Although the breed looks imposing, the Bullmastiff is largely a couch potato whose guarding capabilities come primarily from its looks. Bullmastiffs are not always recommended for the first time owner. But, here’s a surprise, this large breed does well with apartment living as they are considered low-energy dogs.
#5 – Pekingese
The Pekingese is a small companion dog from China. Although they require very little exercise to stay happy and healthy, they do need regular grooming to prevent matting and skin infections. They are lovable dogs who are deeply loyal to their families.
Don’t be a lazy dog! Keep Scrolling for more low-energy dogs…
#6 – Italian Greyhound
The smallest of the sighthounds, the Italian Greyhound makes a wonderful companion. Did you know Italian Greyhounds are known for going from speed racers to couch potatoes in minutes? They do need areas to run around as this is what they were bred to do, but once inside, the breed is likely to stay curled up in your lap for the rest of the day.
#7 – French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is loved for its unique looks and silly personality. They are smaller than their English cousins and make wonderful companions. They are generally lazy dogs that require minimal exercise to stay happy and healthy.
#8 – Pug
The Pug is a popular companion breed because of its glowing personality! Plus, people love this smushed-face cutie as the breed is one of the low-energy dogs. They are fun-loving but somewhat lazy dogs that enjoy spending time with their families, even if it means just resting by your side.
#9 – Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux, or French Mastiff, is a large guardian breed looking much more dangerous than he actually is. Although they’re still fine guard dogs on their looks alone, these tough-looking pups are typically gentle, loving dogs that require very little exercise overall.
#10 – Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a playful companion dog who loves fun, but needs very little exercise to stay happy and healthy. They are wonderful lapdogs and take special pride in their work of companionship. This was the breed’s original purpose after all!
#11 – Mastiff
The Mastiff, or English Mastiff, is a large, powerful dog that was originally bred for guarding. They are strong dogs, but are very lazy and require little exercise despite their size. Known for being gentle giants, Mastiffs make great family companions.
#12 -Dachshunds
Doxies have a reputation for being stubborn and lazy, which means you may have to coax your long and lazy dog into exercising. They’d much rather be napping in your lap than running around on long adventures. These needy little hounds will be your best friend for a comfy bed and a bellyful of treats.
#13 – Akita
The Akita is a large, powerful hunting and guarding breed from Japan. Although considered a working dog, they are relatively lazy indoors and need little exercise overall to remain happy and healthy. The breed is not prone to being destructive and daily walks are typically sufficient.
#14 – Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a small dog from Tibet bred primarily to be a watchdog and companion in Buddhist monasteries. Because of this, they are very alert and will let their owners know when strangers are approaching. However, they need little exercise and are perfectly happy relaxing indoors.
#15 – Great Dane
Despite its size, the Great Dane is a gentle giant that needs little to moderate exercise. They are affectionate, clownish dogs that are known for their unique personalities and docile demeanors.
Toledo, United States.
