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10 Dog Breeds That Are Perfect for a Chill, Low-Energy Lifestyle

By: Arlene Divina
Arlene Divina, one of the content writers at IHD, loves going on adventures with her adorable fur baby. She now creates informative content for pet parents. Read more
| November 19, 2024

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Not every dog breed is a boundless bundle of energy, constantly bouncing off the walls and ready for a marathon. Some dogs are surprisingly low-energy, making them ideal companions for those who prefer a laid-back lifestyle. Whether you live in an apartment or want a furry friend content with short walks and long naps, these breeds are happy to be couch potatoes. Don’t let their looks or size fool you—these dogs have mastered the art of relaxation and are experts at keeping things chill.

Bulldog

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Bulldogs are the ultimate couch potatoes of the canine world. With their stocky builds and laid-back attitudes, Bulldogs are more interested in lounging around than engaging in strenuous activity. Short walks and gentle play sessions are enough to keep them content, and they’re more likely to be found napping in a sunny spot than running around the yard. Bulldogs are also known for snoring and funny sleeping positions, adding to their reputation as low-energy, lovable companions. They make great pets for those who enjoy a slower pace of life and don’t mind a little slobber now and then.

Basset Hound

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With their droopy eyes and long ears, Basset Hounds are famous for their relaxed, easygoing nature. These dogs love to lounge around the house and are perfectly happy with short walks to sniff around the neighborhood. Basset Hounds are scent hounds, and while they enjoy using their noses, they prefer to take things slow and steady. They’re not built for speed or agility, and their low-energy demeanor makes them ideal companions for anyone who values a calm and leisurely lifestyle. Basset Hounds are affectionate and love to snuggle, often looking like the epitome of contentment as they snooze away.

Great Dane

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Despite their enormous size, Great Danes are surprisingly mellow and low-energy. These gentle giants are known for their calm and affectionate demeanor, and they often think they’re lap dogs, despite their massive frames. Great Danes are happy to lounge around the house, and while they need some space, they don’t require much exercise. A few short walks a day and some playtime are usually enough to keep them happy. Their serene nature makes them excellent companions for families or individuals who appreciate a big dog with a low-key personality.

Shih Tzu

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Shih Tzus may be small and fluffy, but they’re not known for being overly energetic. These dogs are more interested in sitting on your lap and soaking up attention than running around the yard. Shih Tzus are perfectly content with short walks and some indoor play, making them a great choice for apartment dwellers or people with limited space. They’re affectionate and love to be pampered, often acting more like royalty than a playful pup. Shih Tzus have mastered the art of lounging and are more than happy to spend their days napping or being carried around like the little divas they are.

Greyhound

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It might be a surprise that Greyhounds, known for their incredible speed on the racetrack, are actually low-energy dogs at home. These elegant canines are sprinters, not marathon runners, and they’re famous for their “45-mph couch potato” reputation. Greyhounds love to sprint for short bursts but are otherwise extremely lazy, spending most of their time sleeping or lounging. They enjoy short walks and occasional runs but are just as happy to curl up on the sofa for a good, long nap. Their gentle and quiet nature makes them perfect for families or individuals who enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle.

Pug

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Pugs are charming little dogs with a love for relaxation. These compact canines are playful in short bursts but are mostly known for their fondness for napping and snuggling. Pugs are prone to overheating and can’t handle strenuous exercise, so they’re happiest with short walks and leisurely activities. Their funny, wrinkly faces and charming personalities make them endearing companions, and their low-energy lifestyle is perfect for anyone who wants a laid-back furry friend. Pugs are also known for their amusing antics and loud snoring, which only adds to their unique and lovable character.

Newfoundland

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Newfoundlands are big, fluffy dogs known to be gentle and mellow. These gentle giants are calm, patient, and excellent with children, often called “nanny dogs” because of their sweet nature. Despite their size, Newfoundlands are relatively low-energy and are content with leisurely walks and some light play. They love water and may enjoy a good swim now and then, but they’re not high-strung or hyperactive. Newfoundlands prefer a laid-back lifestyle, and their serene, loving demeanor makes them ideal companions for families who appreciate a dog that’s as chill as they come.

French Bulldog

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French Bulldogs are known for their comical personalities and low-energy lifestyle. These little dogs are perfectly happy lounging around the house and are not fans of intense exercise. A short walk and some playtime indoors are all they need to stay healthy and content. Frenchies are great companions for apartment dwellers or people who prefer a quieter life, and their love of cuddling makes them excellent lap dogs. They’re also known for their funny snorting and snoring, which only adds to their adorable charm. If you’re looking for a dog that enjoys relaxation as much as you do, a French Bulldog might be your perfect match.

Chow Chow

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Chow Chows are independent, dignified dogs with a love for relaxation. These fluffy canines have a calm and aloof demeanor, and they’re not known for being overly active. While they need regular walks to stay healthy, they’re not particularly interested in high-energy activities or playtime. Chow Chows are perfectly happy lounging around and watching the world go by, often enjoying a sunny spot to nap in. Their thick, luxurious coats make them look like little lions, and their laid-back nature makes them great companions for people who prefer a quieter, more peaceful dog.

Saint Bernard

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Saint Bernards are massive, fluffy dogs known for their gentle and mellow disposition. These gentle giants are surprisingly low-energy and happiest with a few short walks and plenty of nap time. Saint Bernards are affectionate and great with children, often acting like oversized teddy bears. They don’t need much exercise and prefer a calm environment, making them perfect for families who appreciate a laid-back canine companion. Despite their size, they’re incredibly easygoing and love nothing more than lying around and being close to their loved ones.

The Champions of Chill

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These low-energy dog breeds prove that not all dogs are bundles of endless energy. From the laid-back Bulldog to the serene Newfoundland, these pups excel at enjoying life’s simple pleasures. They’re perfect companions for anyone who values relaxation and prefers low-key activities over high-energy adventures. Whether snoring on the couch or taking a stroll, these dogs remind us that sometimes the best way to live is to slow down, unwind, and savor the moment—one snooze at a time. Relaxation truly is their specialty, and they do it with style!