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17 Dog Breeds Who Are Perfect For Laid-Back Owners

By: Ejay Camposano
A college graduate with a degree in Electrical Engineering, Ejay has a diverse background that combines technical expertise with a passion for pets and is now one of the content writers at IHD. Read more
| November 1, 2024

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Not every dog is a high-energy ball of fluff needing constant exercise and activity. For laid-back owners who prefer quiet walks, relaxing evenings, and low-maintenance companionship, certain breeds are a perfect match. These dogs are known for their calm demeanor, lower exercise needs, and contentment to spend time lounging beside their humans. From affectionate lap dogs to gentle giants, these breeds bring serenity and warmth without demanding an athletic lifestyle. These dog breeds are ideal for relaxed, easygoing owners looking for a calm companion.

Bulldog

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Bulldogs are gentle, calm dogs known for their easygoing nature and love of lounging. They don’t require much exercise and are happy with short walks and plenty of nap time. Bulldogs enjoy being around their humans and have a strong, loyal bond with their families. Their laid-back demeanor and minimal energy needs make them an ideal fit for low-energy owners who want a loyal, affectionate friend.

Basset Hound

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With their signature droopy ears and soulful eyes, Basset Hounds are mellow dogs with peaceful personalities. Known for their patience and love of lounging, they’re content with slow walks and enjoy relaxing around the house. They’re perfect for laid-back owners, as Basset Hounds don’t need intense exercise and are happiest when near their people, soaking up attention and offering companionship.

Shih Tzu

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Shih Tzus are affectionate, low-maintenance dogs with a calm demeanor. They’re small enough to be lap dogs and are content to spend time indoors, making them a great fit for quieter households. Shih Tzus enjoys gentle play but doesn’t require intense activity to stay happy. They’re affectionate, and loyal, and thrive on companionship, bringing warmth and joy to their laid-back owners without demanding constant attention.

Greyhound

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Though known for their speed on the track, Greyhounds are surprisingly calm and relaxed off the racetrack, earning them the nickname “40-mile-per-hour couch potatoes.” Greyhounds love to lounge and don’t need more than a few short walks daily. They enjoy quiet companionship and are well-suited for laid-back owners who want a graceful, gentle companion without a need for constant exercise.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

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Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for their affectionate, easygoing nature. These gentle dogs are happy to spend time on their owner’s lap or lounging by their side. Cavaliers enjoy gentle walks and socializing but don’t require a lot of activity to stay happy. Their friendly demeanor and calm personality make them a wonderful choice for owners who want a devoted, low-maintenance companion.

Great Dane

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Great Danes are gentle giants with a calm temperament, despite their size. Known for their friendly, laid-back nature, Great Danes are low-energy dogs indoors, happy to relax and stretch out with their family. They’re ideal for laid-back owners who have space for their large frames but prefer a dog with moderate exercise needs. Great Danes are loyal and affectionate, and bring a soothing presence to any home.

Pekingese

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Pekingese are small, independent dogs with a calm personality, making them a great match for easygoing owners. They enjoy short daily walks and light play but are generally content to spend most of their day relaxing at home. Pekingese are loyal and form close bonds with their families, making them perfect for those who appreciate a quiet, devoted companion with a relaxed approach to life.

French Bulldog

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French Bulldogs are small, playful, and affectionate, yet they’re also well-suited for laid-back owners. They’re known for their friendly and adaptable nature, happy with minimal exercise and plenty of lounging. French Bulldogs thrive on human companionship and are particularly good for apartment living. With their easygoing attitude and low energy requirements, French Bulldogs make ideal pets for people who enjoy a slower-paced lifestyle.

Maltese

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Maltese dogs are affectionate lap dogs that bring calm companionship to any home. Known for their gentle demeanor, Maltese dogs are content with short walks and indoor play, making them perfect for low-energy owners. They love snuggling and being near their humans, forming close bonds with family members. With their sweet, easygoing nature, Maltese dogs are ideal for people looking for a small, low-maintenance companion.

Clumber Spaniel

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Clumber Spaniels are large but mellow dogs who enjoy a calm, relaxed environment. Known for their loyalty and gentle nature, Clumber Spaniels are happy with moderate exercise and love spending time with their families. They’re easygoing, and affectionate, and don’t require high-energy activities, making them a good fit for laid-back owners who prefer leisurely walks and cozy afternoons.

Chihuahua

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Chihuahuas may be small, but they are loyal, devoted companions who enjoy a cozy lap to snuggle on. They have low exercise needs and are happy with short walks and indoor play, making them perfect for low-energy households. Known for their strong attachment to their humans, Chihuahuas make excellent companions for those who want a calm, affectionate pet that doesn’t require a lot of activity.

Lhasa Apso

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Lhasa Apsos are independent, calm dogs with a quiet nature. They enjoy moderate exercise but are content to relax indoors for much of the day. Lhasas are loyal and protective, forming strong bonds with their families. Their easygoing personality and low exercise needs make them ideal for laid-back owners looking for a relaxed, devoted companion. With their calm disposition, Lhasa Apsos fit perfectly into quieter households.

Pug

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Pugs are small dogs with big personalities and a love for relaxation. Known for their friendly and playful nature, Pugs enjoy short walks and lots of snuggle time with their humans. They’re adaptable to different living environments and don’t require intense physical activity, making them perfect for laid-back owners. Pugs bring warmth and affection to their families without demanding constant attention or high-energy activities.

Scottish Deerhound

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Scottish Deerhounds are calm, large dogs with a dignified presence. They’re content with moderate exercise and enjoy quiet time indoors, making them ideal for owners with a relaxed lifestyle. Deerhounds are loyal and gentle, often preferring a peaceful environment and enjoying a strong bond with their family. Despite their size, they’re low-energy dogs who bring a calming presence to any home.

English Bulldog

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English Bulldogs are known for their easygoing, relaxed temperament. They enjoy short walks and are more than happy to spend time lounging at home. Bulldogs have a gentle disposition and form close bonds with their owners, making them perfect for laid-back families. With their low exercise needs and friendly personality, English Bulldogs make wonderful companions for people who appreciate a calm, affectionate pet.

Japanese Chin

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Japanese Chins are small, gentle dogs known for their calm, affectionate nature. They enjoy moderate exercise but are happiest when they can relax with their family. Japanese Chins are quiet and adaptable, making them ideal for people seeking a low-energy dog that doesn’t require a lot of physical activity. Their loyalty and calm personality make them a perfect fit for laid-back owners.

Bernese Mountain Dog

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Bernese Mountain Dogs are gentle giants with a calm, affectionate temperament. Known for their loyalty and easygoing nature, Berners are content with moderate exercise and enjoy spending quiet time with their family. They’re gentle with children and other pets, often bringing a peaceful presence to any home. Their laid-back attitude and minimal exercise needs make them perfect for owners who prefer a slower pace of life.

Couch Paws And Cozy Companions

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These easygoing dog breeds are ideal for owners who enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, offering warmth, loyalty, and companionship without the need for constant activity. Known for their calm demeanor and affectionate nature, these dogs are perfect for anyone looking for a devoted, low-energy pet who loves quiet moments by your side. If you’re seeking a furry friend who treasures downtime as much as you do, these breeds are ready to fill your home with comfort, companionship, and plenty of cozy cuddles!